In a major expansion of Netflix’s high-octane Extraction franchise, acclaimed actor Ma Dong-seok has been confirmed to star as the titular mercenary in TYGO, a thrilling new spin-off film infused with Korean action flair. Joining him are BLACKPINK’s Lisa in her feature film debut and rising star Lee Jin-uk, bringing fresh intensity to the shared universe that has captivated global audiences with its relentless mercenary tales.
Directed by Lee Sang-yong, the visionary behind the blockbuster The Roundup series—including The Roundup 2, The Roundup 3, and the highly anticipated The Roundup 5— TYGO promises to blend heart-pounding stunts with deeply personal stakes. The project is a collaborative effort between Big Punch Pictures, Ma Dong-seok’s production company, and AGBO, the studio co-founded by the Russo Brothers and responsible for the original Extraction films as well as The Gray Man. Additional co-producers Nova Film and B&C Content, known for Netflix’s Badland Hunters, round out the powerhouse team steering this international venture.
At the center of TYGO is Tygo, portrayed by Ma Dong-seok, a battle-hardened mercenary who has navigated the shadows of war-torn regions, surviving on sheer will and skill. The story unfolds as Tygo embarks on a high-stakes mission that takes a devastating turn when his closest ally, Lia—whom he regards as family from their shared traumatic pasts as child survivors—is kidnapped by a ruthless criminal syndicate. What follows is a pulse-racing rescue operation that pushes Tygo to his physical and emotional limits, introducing new characters and a distinctly Korean narrative thread to the Extraction world.
BLACKPINK’s Lisa steps into the role of Lia, the resilient mission team member whose abduction ignites the film’s central conflict. This marks a significant milestone for Lisa, following her dramatic turn in HBO’s The White Lotus Season 3, as she dives headfirst into action cinema. Lee Jin-uk takes on the antagonistic Arman Choi, a pivotal enforcer within the criminal organization, adding layers of menace and moral complexity to the proceedings.
The announcement, revealed today by Netflix, underscores the growing synergy between Hollywood’s action giants and Korea’s dynamic film industry. Ma Dong-seok, whose commanding presence has defined modern Korean blockbusters, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing this long-gestating vision to life:
I’m very happy that production is finally beginning on this project that AGBO and I have been preparing for years. TYGO will add a uniquely Korean touch to the global Extraction universe. I look forward to the day when we can show audiences around the world the explosive energy of TYGO.
For Lisa, TYGO represents not just a debut but a dream realized, as she transitions from global pop sensation to silver-screen action star:
It’s truly an honor to take part in this project, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such incredible actors. Starring in an action film has been a long-time dream of mine, and I’m so happy that my first movie role is in such an amazing production.
Lee Jin-uk, drawing from his admiration for the franchise, shared his commitment to elevating the ensemble:
As a big fan of the Extraction series, it’s a great honor to become part of its universe. I’m especially excited and grateful to be working with Ma Dong Seok and Lisa. I’ll do my very best to repay this opportunity with a great performance.
While specific filming timelines and release dates remain under wraps, the involvement of AGBO signals TYGO’s alignment with Netflix’s strategy to weave interconnected stories across borders, much like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Lee Sang-yong’s track record in choreographing visceral, crowd-pleasing action sequences positions TYGO as a potential standout, merging the franchise’s signature one-shot bravura with Korea’s signature blend of grit and humanity.
Fans of the Extraction series can revisit the adrenaline-fueled origins on Netflix, where both Extraction (2020) and Extraction 2 (2023)—starring Chris Hemsworth as the indomitable Tyler Rake—are currently streaming worldwide.
