Trigger is a 2025 South Korean Netflix original thriller series that explores the shocking rise of illegal guns in a country known for strict weapon laws. Premiering on July 25, 2025, the series is directed by Kwon Oh-seung and stars Kim Nam-Gil as Detective Lee Do and Kim Young-Kwang as the enigmatic Moon Baek.
Set in a fictional version of South Korea experiencing a public crisis, the story follows a former military sniper-turned-cop who clashes with an underground arms broker. As fear spreads across the nation, both men face personal and moral battles in a world where guns now define power, chaos, and survival.
The series blends action, crime, and psychological suspense, raising deep questions about justice, control, and human behavior under threat. Trigger is rated TV-MA for mature content and is not suitable for children or younger teens.
Trigger Age Rating
Trigger is rated TV-MA (Mature Audiences) on Netflix due to its violent content, intense themes, and mature subject matter. The Korea Media Rating Board (KMRB) also classifies it as 19+ (청소년관람불가), meaning it’s restricted to adult viewers.
Here’s a closer look at the content areas:
Violence & Peril
The show features frequent gun violence, including shootings, injuries, and deaths. While not always graphic, the presence of guns in normally gun-free settings creates an atmosphere of fear and instability. Scenes depict armed confrontations, ambushes, and tragic casualties. Emotional tension runs high throughout, especially in urban panic sequences and standoffs.
Language
Strong language is used throughout the series, especially in moments of stress or confrontation. While not excessive, viewers should expect mature dialogue consistent with crime thrillers.
Mature Themes
Trigger explores serious issues such as gun control, organized crime, public fear, moral collapse, and mental stress. There are scenes involving trauma, loss, and the breakdown of societal order. Some characters deal with ethical dilemmas and psychological strain.
Is Trigger Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable: This series includes mature themes and violence that make it inappropriate for pre-teens. The heavy tone and adult subject matter are not meant for young viewers.
Ages 13–17: Not recommended: Although older teens may be curious about crime dramas or Korean thrillers, Trigger contains intense themes, gun-related violence, and moral ambiguity that may be disturbing or difficult to process without context. Parental discretion is strongly advised.
Trigger is designed for mature audiences and deals with societal violence in a realistic and intense way. It is best viewed by adults or viewers aged 18 and older.
What Parents Should Know
This is a mature, dark thriller. It explores the psychological and societal breakdown caused by weapons entering a gun-free society.
It is not just action—it’s emotional and political. Teens may be drawn in by the gun-action concept, but the deeper messages require critical thinking and emotional maturity.
Parental supervision is strongly advised if older teens are watching. The themes may provoke anxiety or strong reactions.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Trigger (2025)?
A: Trigger is rated TV-MA on Netflix and 19+ (청소년관람불가) in South Korea.
Q: Is Trigger suitable for teens?
A: No. Due to its intense violence and mature themes, it is not recommended for viewers under 18.
Q: Does Trigger have graphic violence?
A: Yes. The show includes realistic gun violence, emotional tension, and disturbing situations.
Q: Is there any sexual content in the series?
A: No sexual content or nudity has been confirmed in early descriptions, but themes remain mature.
Q: Where can I watch Trigger?
A: The series will be available globally on Netflix starting July 25, 2025.