Hwang Dong-hyuk’s New Crime Thriller ‘The Dealer’ Set for January 2026 Production Kick-off

Hwang Dong-hyuk, the visionary mastermind behind the global phenomenon "Squid Game," has officially greenlit his next major venture for Netflix. Titled "The Dealer," this upcoming crime drama marks a significant milestone for Firstman Studio, the production powerhouse that previously delivered the record-breaking survival series. While Hwang will not be in the director's chair this time, he is set to steer the project as its executive producer, ensuring the high-stakes narrative maintains the sharp edge that has become his signature style.

The narrative core of the series revolves around Jung Gon-hwa, a character defined by her exceptional intellect and prowess as a professional casino dealer. Her life takes a devastating turn when her dreams of a perfect wedding are shattered by a predatory housing fraud scheme. Pushed to the brink and desperate to reclaim her future, Gon-hwa is forced to reactivate her long-dormant, extraordinary gambling talents. She must navigate a treacherous underworld of high-stakes betting to secure the funds needed for her walk down the aisle. Taking on this complex lead role is Jung So-min, an actress who has garnered international acclaim for her versatile performances in "Alchemy of Souls" and "Love Next Door."

In a notable shift behind the scenes, "The Dealer" will serve as the directorial debut for Choi Young-hwan. While new to directing, Choi is a seasoned veteran of the industry, having served as the cinematographer for some of South Korea's most visually striking films, including "Smugglers," "Veteran," "Tazza: One-Eyed Jack," and "The Thieves." His extensive experience in capturing high-octane action and atmospheric tension is expected to bring a unique visual allure to the gambling dens depicted in the show. The script, which promises to blend psychological depth with suspense, was penned by the writing duo of Oh-no and Lee Tae-yeon.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring a lineup of seasoned talent that adds depth to the high-stakes environment. Ryu Seung-beom joins the ensemble as Hwang Chi-su, a veteran card shark who manages to survive on the fringes of the gambling world until he is inevitably drawn into Gon-hwa’s ambitious and dangerous scheme. Lee Soo-hyuk is set to portray Cho Joon, a formidable player known for his impenetrable poker face and calculated moves. Adding a layer of personal conflict to the story, Ryu Kyung-soo will play Choi Woo-seung, Gon-hwa’s fiancé. Interestingly, Woo-seung is a dedicated police detective whose unwavering commitment to the law stands in stark contrast to the illicit world his future bride must inhabit.

This transition into a purely producing role represents a strategic pivot for Hwang Dong-hyuk following the grueling production cycle of "Squid Game." Despite the change in his day-to-day responsibilities, "The Dealer" remains deeply rooted in Hwang’s thematic interest in the harsh realities of socio-economic disparity. The series shifts the focus from the physical brutality of a survival game to the intense psychological warfare found at the card table. With production officially scheduled to commence in January 2026, Netflix subscribers worldwide are eagerly anticipating this next chapter in Hwang’s creative journey, which promises to be a gripping exploration of desperation and skill.