Tempest: A Political Thriller with Burning Chemistry

Disney+ drama Tempest mixes politics, action, and romance.
Jun Ji Hyun and Kang Dong Won’s chemistry shines.
A global hit with suspenseful twists and fan buzz.

The Korean drama Tempest, streaming on Disney+ and Hulu since September 10, 2025, has quickly captured public attention with its blend of political intrigue, action, thriller, and a touch of romance. Starring Jun Ji Hyun as Seo Mun Ju, a diplomat and former ambassador to the United States, and Kang Dong Won as Baek San Ho, an elite mercenary shrouded in mystery, the drama consists of only 9 episodes. Despite its short length, each release delivers gripping suspense that leaves viewers wanting more. Screenwriter Jung Seo Kyung, known for Decision to Leave, and director Kim Hee Won of Queen of Tears fame, crafted a series that is cinematic, layered, and tightly written.

Mun Ju is portrayed as a respected figure in the international community, while San Ho is a shadowy character entangled in secrets. The two are brought together by an assassination case linked to political maneuvering between South and North Korea. In terms of popularity, Tempest ranked third in Good Data TV-OTT Viewership with 11.39 percent and secured fifth place on FlixPatrol for top Disney+ shows. These numbers prove that even with just a few episodes aired, Tempest has already become a global phenomenon.

Netizen comments:

“veteran actors, a good script, and insane chemistry, it deserved to be at least 16 episodes long ㅠㅠ”

“just 5 episodes convinced me that #Tempest it’s the drama of the year!”

Actor Chemistry and Netizen Reactions

One of the strongest elements behind Tempest’s popularity is the chemistry between Jun Ji Hyun and Kang Dong Won. Many viewers point out how their interactions feel natural yet intense, especially in emotionally charged scenes. From Reddit to Twitter, fans are buzzing about how this chemistry breathes life into the drama’s complex narrative. Some even call it a realistic makjang because of the many layered conflicts, ranging from geopolitical intrigue to twisted family drama.

A Reddit user wrote, “There is a crazy amount of tension in this show. Geopolitical tension, family tension, even sexual tension with the bodyguard. I’m literally holding my breath.”

Another added, “Doesn’t it feel like a realistic makjang 🤣 there is so much going on that I am scared to even blink.”

Twitter shows the same enthusiasm. One fan tweeted, “just finished watching 3 episodes of Tempest and omg it’s so good 😭 everything about it has me hooked already.” Others even hope the drama will be extended beyond 9 episodes, arguing that the story is too packed to wrap up in such a short run. Iconic moments between Mun Ju and San Ho, from loaded glances to action-packed rescues, only deepen viewers’ anticipation for the next episodes.

Netizen comments:

“Episode 4 wow!!! I’m obsessed with this drama! Paik has me smitten, I want him as my bodyguard! The chemistry is intense!!!”

“The show was starting to feel quite American, but then the grandma’s slap brought me right back to kdramaland.”

Between Praise and Criticism

Although overwhelmingly praised, Tempest is not without its criticisms. On IMDb, the drama holds an overall rating of 6.2/10, though episodes 4 and 5 received higher scores of 7.4 and 7.2 respectively. This suggests a split in perception between those impressed by the cinematography and storytelling, and others who feel the show attempts to pack too many subplots into a limited number of episodes.

Nevertheless, most public sentiment leans positive. Many label the drama a strong contender for drama of the year for its bold approach to political themes rarely explored in mainstream K-dramas, paired with its strong romantic undertones. The fact that Tempest made it into the global top 5 on Disney+ proves its appeal goes far beyond South Korea.

Netizen comments:

“He’s a triple threat in that white shirt with folded sleeves and I’m thoroughly swooned just watching him watch her, save her, help her and protect her.”

“The mother of the son is vile… and the grandmother twisted 🤣 no wonder this family drama feels so addictive.”

With only a handful of episodes left, Tempest still holds plenty of secrets. Will Mun Ju and San Ho uncover the truth behind the conspiracy, or will they fall deeper into the web of political schemes?

Sources: Disney+, Hulu, IMDb, FlixPatrol, GoodData, Reddit r/KDRAMA, X (Twitter)