Another blockbuster Korean drama featuring a star-studded cast is now available for streaming! “Villains (빌런즈)”, the Korean crime action drama series starring Yoo Ji-tae (유지태) and Lee Min-jeong (이민정), recently made its streaming debut on HBO Max.
The eight-episode drama follows criminal mastermind J (played by Yoo Ji-tae) and master forger Han Soo-hyun (played by Lee Min-jeong) as they navigate the world of crime and attempt to survive the violent power struggle between villains over the elusive, ultra-precision counterfeit bill, known as the Supernote. All the while, the two are under the watchful eye of the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
Highly anticipated by Korean entertainment fans, “Villains” is directed by Jin Hyuk and Park Jin-young. Kim Young-chan served as Executive Producer, alongside Jang Hye-min and Kim Soo-young as Creative Producers, and Yang Chang-hoon and Lee Jung-joo as Chief Producers. The series is written by Kim Hyung-joon and produced by Taewon Entertainment and CJ ENM.
In commemoration of the new drama, the stars of “Villains”, Yoo Ji-tae and Lee Min-jeong, have answered a few questions about the project. Here’s what they say:
Q. What spurred you to take on such a complicated and thrilling role in “Villains”?
Yoo Ji-tae: The script was extremely engaging – the series is not simply a battle between good and evil. I have never played the character of a villain before, but I did hope to one day be a part of a crime thriller series, and I think I played the part in a way I felt was right for my character, J, not just as a villain but also being vulnerable with Soo-hyun – displaying his humanity.
Lee Min-jeong: In my opinion, the storyline of “Villains” created a world of non-stop thrill and tension, right till the end of the series. With such a charismatic group of villains, it is hard to decide who you want to root for.
Q. If you had one scene or characteristic from your character you hope HBO Max viewers never forget, what would it be?
Yoo Ji-tae: Much like above, I would say while he’s a master criminal, he is still able to keep his humanity intact. I think the character of Soo-hyun is also incredibly charismatic.
Q. How would you summarise Villains in three words?
Lee Min-jeong: Charisma, thrill, and intensity.
Q. Why should viewers/fans watch Villains on HBO Max?
Yoo Ji-tae: We’re both so good at playing bad and evil that the intensity comes naturally. The series is a drama touching on multiple genres and can captivate various audiences. I hope viewers enjoy it on HBO Max!
Lee Min-jeong: “Villains” blur the line between what’s real versus fake, and the difference between right and wrong. You will find yourself rooting for the bad guys without even realising it. Stream Villains on HBO Max!
Stream “Villains” exclusively on HBO Max, starting 18th December 2025.
