Ruthless, corrupt, and utterly heartless.

These were our first impressions after watching the opening episodes of Disney+’s first original period series “The Murky Stream“. Set in 16th century Joseon along the Gyeong River, now known as the Han River, the drama introduces three compelling leads.

Siyul (Rowoon) is a strong and mysterious labourer, Choi Eun (Shin Yeeun) is a sharp-witted and determined daughter of a merchant guild owner, and Jung Chun (Park Seoham) is a newly appointed officer finding his footing in a dangerous world. The coasts are plagued by bandits, and anyone who wishes to dock or trade must submit to their control. These are turbulent times filled with unchecked power and relentless corruption.

From the very beginning, two truths stand out as we watch “The Murky Stream“:

1. Every man is out for himself.

Labourers, at the bottom of the hierarchy, are bullied and abused. No one dares to intervene because survival comes first. Helping another only makes you the next target.

2. There is always someone more powerful above you.

The labourers suffer under the cruelty of Mudeok, their neighbourhood gang leader, yet Mudeok himself is bullied by rival gang leaders. Even the gang leaders face oppression from their superiors, who raise taxes at will and punish anyone who fails to meet demands. Layer by layer, the series exposes how greed and corruption poison every level of society.

At the press conference for “The Murky Stream“, Rowoon revealed that this is his most transformative role yet and shared how proud he is of the action scenes. While we were cheering him on in his moments of defiance during the first episodes, we could not help but feel the sting of every beating he endured. Our hearts ached for him, even as we admired his determination.

Do not miss “The Murky Stream” when it premieres on 26 September, exclusively on Disney+. Join Siyul, Choi Eun, and Jung Chun as they fight to reclaim justice in a lawless world.