Knock Off | First Look (2025)
August 14, 2025
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Knock-Off (2025) — First Look & Preview
Overview
Knock-Off is an upcoming South Korean black-comedy crime drama series set to premiere on Disney+ in 2025. Directed by Park Hyun-seok and written by Han Jung-hoon, the show blends sharp satire, emotional depth, and gripping crime narratives.
Premise
Set against the aftermath of the 1997 Asian financial crisis (IMF crisis), the story follows Kim Seong-jun (played by Kim Soo-hyun), a former office worker whose life collapses when he loses his job during the crash. Forced to survive, Seong-jun enters the world of counterfeit goods and rapidly climbs the ranks, eventually becoming vice chair of Saemmul Market—a global hub for illicit trade.
Standing in his way is Song Hye-jeong (Jo Bo-ah), his ex-girlfriend and a special judicial police officer devoted to dismantling counterfeit operations. Their paths collide in a high-stakes game of ambition, love, and betrayal.
Main Cast
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Kim Soo-hyun as Kim Seong-jun — An ambitious man who reinvents himself in the world of fakes.
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Jo Bo-ah as Song Hye-jeong — A determined officer, and Seong-jun’s former lover, on a mission to bring him down.
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Supporting cast includes Yoo Jae-myung, Kwon Na-ra, Woo Do-hwan, and others, adding layers of complexity to both the criminal underworld and the enforcement side of the story.
Genre & Tone
As a black comedy-drama, Knock-Off mixes tense crime storytelling with dark humor and social commentary. It questions the meaning of authenticity in a society driven by appearances and survival, blurring the lines between morality and necessity.
Production & Release Status
Originally planned for an April 2025 release, the series faced delays after controversy involving lead actor Kim Soo-hyun. Disney+ has postponed its release indefinitely, though production has continued, showing the creators’ determination to bring the story to audiences.
What to Expect
With stylish visuals, layered characters, and a smart critique of capitalism and identity, Knock-Off has the potential to become one of the most discussed K-dramas of 2025—provided it overcomes its current release hurdles.