Go Hyun-jung, birth of an unconventional problematic work… Policewoman Mother is a Serial Killer (Mantis)

Actress Go Hyun-jung embarks on an unconventional acting transformation through the drama ‘Mantis’.

SBS drama ‘Mantis’ (directed by Byun Young-joo/written by Lee Young-jong/planned by Studio S/produced by Mega Monster, Merry Christmas), scheduled to air in 2025, is a work that depicts the story that unfolds when a woman is imprisoned as a serial killer a long time ago, and someone begins to commit serial murders imitating her. Director Byun Young-joo of the movie ‘Train’ and writer Lee Young-jong of the movie ‘Spring in Seoul’ have joined forces, and Go Hyun-jung (as Jeong Yi-shin) and Jang Dong-yoon (as Cha Soo-yeol) will appear in the drama as a serial killer mother and a police officer son.

The teaser video for ‘Warts’, which was released at the ‘2024 SBS Drama Awards’ on the 21st, immediately caught people‘s attention with the unusual combination of Go Hyun-jung and Jang Dong-yoon as well as the unique and sensuous charm of the work.

The video begins with Go Hyun-jung, who doesn’t look like a serial killer. As passionate opera music rings out, Go Hyun-jung appears in a one-piece dress with long hair, crunching on a bright red apple without any expression. Her innocent looks and contrasting expressions and atmosphere create a sense of thrill, stimulating the curiosity of potential viewers.

Jo Sung-ha (as Jung-ho) leads Jang Dong-yoon to the police, saying, “Cha Soo-yeol. You become a police officer. Five people died, so you have to save five people.” Jang Dong-yoon has grown from a plain-looking face to a tough police officer. Next, the bloody crime scene, the faces of Jang Dong-yoon, Jo Sung-ha, and Lee El (as Na-hee) struggling to catch the criminal, fill the screen, creating tension that makes your palms sweat.

Go Hyun-jung makes brief appearances here and there, raising curiosity about the identity of the serial killer the police are chasing. In particular, Go Hyun-jung‘s strange laughter and Go Hyun-jung’s “Thank you” that decorated the ending of the teaser video. But it‘s too late, so go in and sleep,“ leaving a strong impression as she consoles someone in their arms.

The SBS drama ‘Warts’, which heralds the birth of a groundbreaking problematic work, is scheduled to air in 2025.

Jung Hee-yeon, Donga.com reporter shine2562@donga.com