Netflix’s latest South Korean drama, Trigger, premiered on July 25, 2025, at 4 p.m. KST, promising an exhilarating blend of action, psychological depth, and gripping storytelling. Set against the backdrop of South Korea’s stringent gun control laws, this action-packed thriller explores a chilling scenario where illegal firearms flood the nation, sparking a surge in gun-related crimes. The series stars Kim Nam-gil as Lee Do, a principled police officer and former military sniper, and Kim Young-kwang as Moon Baek, a mysterious ally with secrets of his own. Ahead of the premiere, the production team highlighted three compelling reasons why Trigger is a must-watch series, offering a unique premise, electrifying chemistry between its leads, and emotionally resonant narratives.
A Provocative Premise That Challenges Reality
The core concept of Trigger has captivated audiences since the release of its teaser, presenting a thought-provoking “what-if” scenario. In a country where firearms are strictly prohibited, the drama imagines a world where guns are delivered to ordinary citizens’ doorsteps like everyday packages. This unsettling premise serves as a catalyst for exploring the complexities of human nature and societal structures. Kim Nam-gil, who plays the justice-driven Lee Do, described the concept as “fresh” and multifaceted. “The story doesn’t treat guns lightly,” he explained. “It uses them as a symbol to delve into psychological and societal questions—how far can a person fall, and what can they still protect?”
Director Kwon Oh-seung emphasized the universal appeal of the show’s concept, noting that Trigger taps into a scenario “everyone has imagined at least once.” The series blurs the line between reality and imagination, posing critical questions about human choices in the absence of societal safety nets. Each episode examines the personal and moral dilemmas faced by individuals who encounter these mysterious weapons, making Trigger not just an action series but a profound psychological drama that resonates with contemporary anxieties.
Explosive Chemistry Between Kim Nam-gil and Kim Young-kwang
At the heart of Trigger lies the dynamic interplay between its two leads, Kim Nam-gil and Kim Young-kwang, whose on-screen chemistry is a major draw for the series. Kim Nam-gil portrays Lee Do, a former sniper turned police officer who grapples with the moral weight of wielding a gun to protect lives. His action sequences are described as restrained yet powerful, reflecting his character’s emotional depth and commitment to justice. In contrast, Kim Young-kwang’s Moon Baek is an enigmatic figure whose carefree and unpredictable nature complements Lee Do’s stoic demeanor. Their unlikely partnership, forged at a crime scene, drives the narrative forward with intensity and intrigue.
The collaboration between the two actors, who are working together for the first time, has been praised for its authenticity and depth. Kim Nam-gil commended Kim Young-kwang’s ability to portray Moon Baek’s evolving character, stating, “His performance helped me express Lee Do’s emotional arc more clearly. We synced our rhythms to create a dense, immersive chemistry.” Kim Young-kwang echoed this sentiment, highlighting the seamless teamwork that allowed him to maintain Moon Baek’s distinctive tone. “Kim Nam-gil’s consistency in embodying Lee Do made it easy for me to react naturally,” he said. Their combined efforts promise viewers a captivating interplay of contrasting personalities, elevating Trigger’s action-packed sequences with emotional authenticity.
Emotionally Charged Stories and Realistic Action
What sets Trigger apart from typical action thrillers is its focus on the personal stories behind each character’s decision to pick up a gun. The series weaves a tapestry of individual narratives, each exploring the unique “triggers” that drive ordinary people to extraordinary actions. Director Kwon Oh-seung emphasized the relatability of these stories, noting, “We focused on situations that feel real and grounded. The characters aren’t larger-than-life heroes—they’re everyday people you might encounter in real life.” This approach ensures that the series resonates with viewers on a personal level, inviting them to reflect on their own moral boundaries.
The action sequences in Trigger are tailored to reflect the emotional stakes of each character, avoiding the flashy spectacle often associated with gun-centric thrillers. Instead, the series prioritizes realism and emotional weight, with each gunfight carefully crafted to mirror the characters’ motivations and circumstances. Kim Nam-gil highlighted the narrative depth of the series, stating, “Each episode introduces a new person picking up a gun, and the key is understanding why they felt they had no choice.” Kim Young-kwang added a philosophical perspective, noting, “Guns spread like a virus in the story, but the decision to pull the trigger lies with the individual. That’s the core of Trigger.”
With its innovative premise, stellar performances, and emotionally driven storytelling, Trigger promises to be a standout addition to Netflix’s roster of South Korean dramas. The series combines the adrenaline of an action thriller with the introspective depth of a psychological drama, offering viewers a multifaceted exploration of human choice and societal pressures. For those familiar with the leads’ previous work, Kim Nam-gil’s intense performance in Through the Darkness and Kim Young-kwang’s charismatic role in Mission Possible serve as testaments to their ability to carry a high-stakes narrative.
All 10 episodes of Trigger are now streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to dive into this gripping tale of justice, mystery, and moral ambiguity.
