Made in Korea (2025) is a South Korean action-thriller and political period drama. The series is directed by Woo Min-ho and written by Park Eun-gyo and Park Joon-seok.
The cast includes Hyun Bin, Jung Woo-sung, Woo Do-hwan, Cho Yeo-jeong, Seo Eun-soo, and Won Ji-an. Set in the volatile 1970s, the plot follows a prosecutor’s hunt to expose a KCIA agent’s criminal empire amid political repression.
Release date and distribution: the series premieres December 24, 2025 on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (international). The show is a high-budget, multi-episode political thriller. It has already been renewed for a second season. The creative team signals a heavy, adult-oriented tone.
Made in Korea Age Rating
Made in Korea is rated TV-MA for intense violence, mature themes, and adult content. The TV-MA rating fits strong depictions of political violence, realistic brutality, and complex moral corruption. Expect sustained tension, explicit confrontations, and scenes of institutional abuse tied to historical repression.
Violence & Peril
Violence is frequent and often realistic rather than stylized. Expect beatings, shootings, and scenes of torture or interrogation implied or shown. Some sequences may include graphic injury or bloody images tied to political crackdowns. The show also leans on atmosphere and dread, creating sustained psychological peril.
Language
Strong, persistent profanity appears throughout the series. Characters use forceful and threatening speech in moments of conflict. Political and ideological slurs occur in heated exchanges. The dialogue is raw and adult in tone.
Mature Themes
The series explores corruption, state violence, coercion, and betrayal. Themes include abuse of power, political repression, and criminal collusion with officials. It depicts moral compromise, smuggling, and the personal cost of justice. Expect references to substance use and sexual coercion tied to plot developments.
Is Made in Korea Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. This series is inappropriate for preteens. The intensity of violence and mature political themes are not suitable. The historical context and depictions of abuse can be distressing.
Ages 13–15: With guidance. Some older young teens may follow the plot, but scenes of interrogation and violence can be upsetting. Parents should preview episodes and decide based on maturity. Use viewing as an opportunity to discuss historical context.
Ages 16–17: With strong guidance. Mature teens may handle the show, especially those interested in history or political dramas. Still, parents should watch first and discuss the realism and harm shown. Recommend watching together and pausing to explain events when needed.
Final recommendation: Made in Korea is best for adults and mature teens 17+. For viewers under 17, parental preview and guided discussion are strongly advised.
What Parents Can Do
- Pre-screen episodes before children watch. Note scenes with graphic or disturbing content and age-inappropriate language.
- Explain the historical context and why the show depicts state violence. Help teens separate fiction from historical fact.
- Use the series for discussions about power, justice, and ethics. Ask how institutions should be held accountable.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Made in Korea?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for intense violence, mature themes, and strong language.
Q: Is Made in Korea appropriate for kids or younger teens?
A: No. The series contains realistic violence, political repression, and adult themes.
Q: How violent or scary is the show?
A: Violence is frequent and realistic. Scenes of interrogation, shootings, and brutality create a tense atmosphere.
Q: Does the series use strong language or slurs?
A: Yes. Expect persistent profanity and harsh political rhetoric.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: The show’s premise suggests adult sexual themes tied to coercion and abuse. Expect mature sexual content used in plot context.
Q: Where will Made in Korea stream?
A: The series is scheduled to premiere on Hulu (United States) and on Disney+ internationally on December 24, 2025.