Netflix has officially greenlit production for its latest South Korean original series, The Rat (WT), a psychological thriller that promises to captivate audiences with its blend of suspense, identity theft, and Korean folklore. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kim Hong-seon and written by Lee Jae-gon, the series stars powerhouse actors Ryu Jun-yeol and Sul Kyung-gu in a thrilling narrative adapted from a popular webtoon. With filming set to begin in mid-April 2025 and continue through November 2025, The Rat (WT) is poised to become a standout addition to Netflix’s growing slate of Korean content.
A Tale of Identity and Vengeance
The Rat (WT) centers on Moon Jae, portrayed by Ryu Jun-yeol, a reclusive novelist whose life unravels when a mysterious figure known only as “the Rat” hijacks his identity, fortune, and existence. The series delves into Moon Jae’s desperate quest to reclaim his life after discovering that even his fingerprint no longer unlocks his phone and his only friend has vanished. Drawn into a web of deception, Moon Jae teams up with No Ja, a loan shark played by Sul Kyung-gu, who has been tracking Moon Jae since he disappeared three years earlier after borrowing money. No Ja, motivated by the chance to recover his funds, becomes an unlikely ally in uncovering the truth behind the enigmatic “Rat.”
The series draws inspiration from a haunting Korean folktale that claims, “If a mouse eats a fingernail, it becomes human.” This eerie premise is reimagined in a modern setting, blending psychological drama with elements of dark fantasy to create a genre-bending narrative that explores themes of identity, paranoia, and survival. The adaptation of the popular webtoon Field Mouse adds a layer of cultural resonance, promising a visually striking and emotionally intense experience.
A Stellar Creative Team
At the helm of The Rat (WT) is director Kim Hong-seon, renowned for his work on genre-defining series such as Dear Hongrang, Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area, The Guest, L.U.C.A.: The Beginning, and Voice. Kim’s expertise in crafting suspenseful, character-driven stories makes him a perfect fit for this intricate thriller. The script is penned by Lee Jae-gon, whose previous works include Special Affairs Team TEN and A Model Family, ensuring a tightly woven narrative that balances tension and emotional depth.
The series is produced by a collaboration between Kakao Entertainment, CJES Studio, and H.House, bringing together some of South Korea’s most prominent production houses. This partnership underscores Netflix’s commitment to delivering high-quality, culturally rich content to a global audience.
Powerhouse Performances
Ryu Jun-yeol, known for his versatile roles in films like Revelations and The 8 Show, steps into the complex role of Moon Jae, a man grappling with the collapse of his reality. His performance is expected to capture the character’s internal turmoil as he questions his very sense of self.
Sul Kyung-gu, a veteran actor celebrated for his work in The Whirldwind and Kill Boksoon, brings gravitas to the role of No Ja, the cunning loan shark whose motivations evolve as he becomes entangled in Moon Jae’s quest. The dynamic between these two acclaimed actors is anticipated to be a highlight of the series, offering a compelling interplay of trust and suspicion.
Production & Release Details
Filming for The Rat (WT) is scheduled to take place from mid-April to November 2025, with production already underway. While an official release date has not been announced, Netflix has teased that additional casting updates and a detailed release schedule will be shared in the coming months. The series is expected to join the ranks of Netflix’s successful K-drama lineup, which includes global hits like Squid Game, Kingdom, and All of Us Are Dead.
With its stellar cast, visionary director, and a narrative that weaves together modern paranoia and ancient folklore, The Rat (WT) is shaping up to be a standout thriller in Netflix’s 2025 lineup. The series’ exploration of identity theft in a digital age, combined with its cultural roots in Korean storytelling, offers a fresh take on the psychological thriller genre. As production progresses, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a gripping, thought-provoking addition to Netflix’s Korean drama catalog.
Source: Netflix
