On 8 July, the cast and crew of Disney+’s highly anticipated Korean drama “Low Life“ gathered for a press conference to introduce the project to fans and media. Set against the turbulent backdrop of Mokpo in the late 1970s, the drama promises a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and hidden treasure.

Directed by Kang Yunsung, known for his stylish, character-driven narratives, “Low Life” brings together a dynamic ensemble of veteran actors and rising talents. Here’s what went down at the press event.

A Story of Greed, Loyalty, and Sunken Treasure

“Low Life” revolves around a colorful group of individuals brought together by a shared desire—money, and in some cases, something deeper. Set in 1977, when rumors swirl about a treasure buried deep in the sea, alliances are tested, and the underbelly of society comes to light.

Director Kang described the show as his dream project, saying, “These are the actors I’ve always wanted to work with. It was an honor to build these characters with them.”

Ryu Seungryong: The Veteran at the Helm

Veteran actor Ryu Seungryong plays a central figure in the drama. At the conference, he expressed excitement about working with the director and the ensemble cast, saying, “I couldn’t wait to work with Director Kang Yunsung and these amazing actors.”

When asked what motivates the characters in “Low Life,” Ryu Seungryong replied candidly: “Money. Except for Sunja—she’s searching for something more heartfelt. But everyone else? It’s just about the money.”

Yang Sejong: The Protégé with a Past

Rising star Yang Sejong takes on a refreshing role as a young man who’s followed his conman uncle since childhood after being abandoned by his father. He described the experience as “fun and refreshing”, noting how much he learned from working alongside the veteran actors.

He also tackled physically demanding underwater scenes, which he initially feared. “There was a lot of training involved,” he said, “but eventually, I began to enjoy it.”

Lim Soojung: A Dazzling Transformation

Actress Lim Soojung takes on a cunning bookkeeper involved in the smuggling and sale of antiques. Her transformation into a bold, vibrant 1970s woman is one of the visual highlights of the show.

“She does everything a woman of that time would do—hair, makeup, clothes,” Soo-jung said. “It suited my character so well. Huge thanks to the styling team!”

The press noted the reunion between her and Ryu Seungryong after 13 years since “All About My Wife“. Lim Soojung said, “It’s a big honor to work together again. The chemistry this time is totally different. Please look forward to it.”

Kim Euisung: The Sinister Professor

Kim Euisung transforms into Professor Kim, a conman from Busan with a truly sinister edge. He teased that his character may be “the most frightening one of all.” Having played many villains in the past, Kim Euisung reflected on this project as more collaborative: “We filmed a lot on the ship—it felt like we were comrades.”

Lee Donghwi & Jung Yunho: Cop and Gangster Cousins

Lee Donghwi plays a cop from Mokpo, torn between duty and personal loyalties. “Something happens in Mokpo and people from all over the peninsula rush in,” he explained. “Though he’s a cop, he doesn’t always act like one.”

This marks his second collaboration with Director Kang after “Big Bet“. “We had great chemistry from the start,” Lee Donghwi said. “It was such a peaceful, happy set—I’d love to work together again.”

Jung Yunho, cast as a Mokpo gangster, is the cop’s cousin. He said the role was a challenge: “Playing a thug was a lot of pressure, but being from Jeolla-do helped with the dialect.” He prepared extensively by speaking to real Mokpo locals and taxi drivers to nail the 1970s dialect.

Supporting Cast Brings the Color

• Lee Sangjin plays an awkward country bumpkin and former boxer, saying it was a dream come true to work with seasoned actors.
• Kim Min plays Sunja, a “coffee girl” whose motivation is to escape to Seoul. “She has a childlike wonder,” Kim Min shared, speaking about her character’s neutrality amid the chaos.
• Kim Jongsoo plays a character not found in the original webtoon—a man who commissions the entire operation and knows how to siphon cash from the venture.

Immersive 1970s Setting and Dialect Mastery

Set in 1970s Mokpo, the drama meticulously recreates the era. Kim Euisung described the experience as “time-traveling”, noting how the set instantly brought actors into character. The production was a mix of on-location shoots, underwater scenes in water tanks, and specialized underwater sets.

Dialect was a major focus. Lee Donghwi and Jung Yunho both worked with dialect coaches, while Kim Min shared she “listened to recordings of Mokpo residents talking day and night” to get into character.

“Low Life” premieres 16 July on Disney+, promising a gritty, stylish dive into the dark side of 1970s Korea. Stay tuned for the thrilling ride into Mokpo’s forgotten depths.