JTBC’s upcoming drama Good Boy promises a thrilling mix of action, comedy, and heart as former Olympic athletes turn police officers to fight crime. The recent script reading session revealed a talented cast, including Park Bo Gum, Kim So Hyun, and Lee Sang Yi, bringing their characters to life with energy and depth, setting high expectations for the May 31, 2025 premiere.
Script Reading Highlights
The script reading for Good Boy took place in March 2024 at JTBC’s headquarters in Seoul. Director Shim Na Yeon, known for Beyond Evil and The Good Bad Mother, led the session alongside writer Lee Dae Il, who penned Life on Mars and Bring It On, Ghost. The event buzzed with excitement as the cast fully embraced their roles, blending humor, tension, and passion.
“From the very first practice, the actors completely embodied their characters. The script reading was alive with energy and a mix of laughter and tension.” — Good Boy Production Team
The production team praised the actors for their commitment, noting their ability to bring both lighthearted and intense moments to the table. Fans are eager to see how this dynamic translates to the screen.
A Story of Olympic Avengers
Good Boy is a 16-episode comic action drama airing every Saturday and Sunday at 10:40 p.m. KST on JTBC, starting May 31, 2025. It will also stream on Prime Video, TVING, and Disney+ in South Korea, with Prime Video offering it internationally in over 240 countries. The series follows former Olympic medalists who join the police force through a special recruitment program. Facing financial struggles, injuries, and short careers, these athletes trade medals for badges to form the “Olympics Avengers,” a team dedicated to tackling violent crime and corruption using their unique skills.
The drama blends action, comedy, and melodrama, focusing on the characters’ personal struggles and their fight for justice. The production team described it as a story of youth rising above defeat, ready to deliver satisfying thrills.
“Our ‘Goodvengers,’ who are ready to throw a satisfying uppercut at a world full of injustice and foul play, are here to reignite the dying flames.” — Good Boy Production Team
Star-Studded Cast and Characters
The cast of Good Boy is a major draw, featuring some of South Korea’s most talented actors. Park Bo Gum plays Yoon Dong Joo, a former Olympic gold medalist boxer turned rookie police officer in the Special Violent Crimes Unit. Known for his roles in Reply 1988 and When Life Gives You Tangerines, Park Bo Gum brings a fiery sense of justice to Yoon Dong Joo, a character with a calm exterior but a powerful presence. His commanding performance during the script reading left a strong impression.
Kim So Hyun, starring as Ji Han Na, portrays a former gold medalist shooter turned Senior Patrol Officer. Previously seen in Love Alarm and Serendipity’s Embrace, Kim So Hyun embodies a bold, strong-willed character who hides a passionate heart. Her experience with action roles, now including firearms, adds excitement to her performance.
Lee Sang Yi takes on Kim Jong Hyun, a former silver medalist fencer and sergeant in the Special Investigation Team. Known for Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Bloodhounds, Lee Sang Yi plays a character with intelligence and inner strength, motivated by a desire to reconnect with his former girlfriend, Ji Han Na. His steady yet tough persona balances the team’s dynamic.
Oh Jung Se, from It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, plays the villain Min Joo Young, a customs officer by day and a sinister crime lord by night. His chilling portrayal of the character’s duality stole the show at the script reading. Heo Sung Tae, known for Squid Game, stars as Go Man Sik, the team leader and former wrestling bronze medalist, bringing warmth and humor. Tae Won Suk, from Bloodhounds, plays Shin Jae Hong, a gentle giant and former discus throw bronze medalist with a soft heart.
Supporting Cast Adds Depth
The supporting cast enhances the drama’s appeal. Seo Hyun Chul plays Hwang Kyung Chul, the police department head and friend of Go Man Sik. Jung Man Sik portrays Oh Jong Gu, a former boxing coach now running J9 Security. Park Chul Min is Kim Geum Nam, a pawnshop owner and informant, while Seo Jeong Yeon plays Jung Mi Ja, a noodle restaurant owner tied to Yoon Dong Joo. Seo Jae Hee appears as Jin Kyung Sook, Ji Han Na’s mother and an insurance agent. Each actor brings a unique flavor, promising memorable performances.
Production and Filming Details
Filming for Good Boy began in late March 2024 but faced a brief pause in August 2024 when Park Bo Gum sustained a minor leg injury during an action scene in Busan. After treatment in Seoul, production resumed, ensuring the drama stayed on track for its 2025 premiere. The series is helmed by Shim Na Yeon, whose work on The Good Bad Mother earned critical acclaim, and written by Lee Dae Il, known for crafting compelling narratives.
A teaser released by JTBC showcased the cast’s chemistry and the drama’s high-energy action, with glimpses of the athletes’ past glories and their new roles as police officers. Fans on social media expressed excitement, praising the fresh pairing of Park Bo Gum and Kim So Hyun.
“Ahh JTBC? YAS! Love this already. JTBC Always do a show that full of life learning their slice of life genre is my fave!”
“2025 looks like a Good Year for Kdrama fans!” — Fans on X
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The pairing of Park Bo Gum and Kim So Hyun has generated significant buzz, especially since the two previously collaborated as MCs at the 2015 KBS Drama Awards, where their chemistry left a lasting impression. Fans have long awaited their on-screen reunion, with many calling them a “dream pair.” Social media posts reflect high anticipation, with viewers excited for the drama’s unique plot and strong cast.
“omg!! I’m so excited to see Park Bo Gum and Kim So Hyun in a drama together!!!”
“Finally? it is said to be released on May31, been waiting forever for this drama”
“Kim so hyun is so perfect for this role, she already played an assassin in RWTMR.” — Netizens on AsianWiki
Fans also praised the casting of Lee Sang Yi, Oh Jung Se, and Heo Sung Tae, noting their ability to elevate any project. The drama’s focus on action and comedy, combined with its emotional depth, has viewers eager for its release.
Premiere and Streaming Details
Good Boy is set to premiere on JTBC on May 31, 2025, at 10:40 p.m. KST, with episodes airing every Saturday and Sunday. International fans can watch it on Prime Video, while viewers in South Korea can stream it on TVING and Disney+. The drama’s global reach ensures accessibility for a wide audience, adding to its potential as a major 2025 hit.
Also Read: Park Bo Gum’s Stunning Transformation as Boxer-Turned-Cop in Good Boy Revealed in Main Poster
As of May 1, 2025, Good Boy is in its final stages of production, with promotional teasers and stills generating strong interest. Park Bo Gum is riding high after the global success of When Life Gives You Tangerines, which topped Netflix’s Non-English charts. Kim So Hyun continues to impress with her versatility, while Lee Sang Yi is set to reprise his role in Bloodhounds Season 2. The cast’s recent activities and the drama’s unique premise keep anticipation at a peak.
CREDITS: JTBC