The Netflix original series ‘Mercy for None‘ is making waves before its official premiere on June 6, 2025. According to the “OTT K-Original Content Viewer Evaluation Report” released by Consumer Insight on May 15, the show has achieved a 25% awareness rate and a 16% viewer interest rate, placing it at the top of the charts for upcoming releases.
Starring So Ji Sub as Gi Jun, a former gang member seeking revenge for his brother’s death, the series is adapted from a popular Naver webtoon. This role marks So Ji Sub’s return to the action genre after 13 years, following his work in ‘A Company Man.’ The show’s preview video has already racked up over 1.38 million views, while its official teaser has earned more than 860,000 views. Notably, the series has been rated R or 19+ due to its graphic violence.
The narrative also introduces two factions, Juwon and Bongsan, with recent stills focusing on Juwon’s leader, Lee Ju Won (played by Heo Jun Ho), who mourns Gi Seok’s death. His emotional turmoil raises questions about his next moves, given his protective relationship with the Gi brothers.
Heo Jun Ho, acclaimed for roles in ‘Kingdom‘ and ‘Bloodhounds,’ is set to portray this complex character. Additionally, Juwon’s son, Lee Geum Seon (played by Choo Young Woo), now a prosecutor, has distanced himself from the gang lifestyle. Known for his role in ‘The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call,’ Choo’s portrayal of Geum Seon promises depth as he navigates a world separate from his family’s criminal ties.
Juwon’s right-hand man, Choi Sung Chul (Jo Han Chul), will also play a crucial role as he tries to restore order in the organization amidst chaos. Jo has built a reputation through his performances in ‘My Name Is Loh Kiwan‘ and ‘Gyeongseong Creature.’ Meanwhile, Nam Gi Seok (Lee Jun Hyuk) serves as the second-in-command in Juwon, whose mysterious death ignites the series’ revenge plot.
As interest continues to build, both theatrical and streaming platforms are preparing for a rise in live-action adaptations of webtoons and web novels. One anticipated film is ‘Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint,’ scheduled for a July release. This production boasts a significant following, having recorded over 200 million views as a web novel and over 2 billion as a webtoon adaptation.
Additionally, the drama ‘The Remarried Empress‘ is being developed, featuring a star-studded cast including Shin Min Ah and Ju Ji Hoon. The live-action adaptation of the web novel ‘Men of the Harem‘ is also underway, directed by Lee Eung Bok with Suzy reportedly considering the lead role. As content competition heats up, proven intellectual properties like ‘Mercy for None’ are poised for major audience engagement.
SEE ALSO: So Ji Sub perfectly matches Ki Jun, fans say he looks like he walked straight out of the webtoon
