Gap-dong, a South Korean television series that aired in 2014, captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and compelling characters. Starring Yoon Sang-hyun, Kim Min-jung, Sung Dong-il, Kim Ji-won, and Lee Joon, the series revolves around a string of real-life murders known as the Hwaseong serial murders.
The story is set in the fictional city of Iltan, Gyeonggi Province, in 1986. A young girl is brutally murdered, marking the beginning of a series of heinous crimes that terrorize the city. The police identify the perpetrator as “Gap-dong” and attribute nine murders within a twelve-kilometer radius to this elusive killer.
Detective Yang Cheol-gon firmly believes that Ha Il-sik, an intellectually challenged resident of the town, is the true culprit. However, Ha’s suicide to prove his innocence derails Cheol-gon’s attempt to bring him to justice. Ha’s death becomes a catalyst for his son, Moo-yeom, who is determined to become a police officer and clear his father’s name.
Seventeen years later, Moo-yeom, now a detective, finds himself trapped in a cycle of unfruitful investigations and juvenile delinquency cases. With the expiration of the statute of limitations on the Gap-dong case, Moo-yeom loses hope of ever capturing the killer. However, a series of chilling incidents occur in Iltan, reminiscent of Gap-dong’s modus operandi. Cheol-gon, who has returned to the city as a decorated officer, is shocked to discover that Moo-yeom has joined his team to finally apprehend Gap-dong.
The cast brings the characters to life with their exceptional performances. Yoon Sang-Hyun portrays Ha Moo-yeom, a detective driven by the desire to avenge his father’s wrongful accusations. Kim Min-jung mesmerizes Maria Oh, a psychiatrist with an enigmatic double life and a peculiar fascination with Gap-dong.
Sung Dong-il portrays Yang Cheol-gon, a seasoned police inspector determined to capture Gap-dong, still convinced of Moo-yeom’s father’s guilt. Kim Ji-won shines as Ma Ji-wool, a talented high school student and webtoon artist whose creations mysteriously predict the crimes. Lastly, Lee Joon delivers a chilling performance as Ryu Tae-oh, an ex-inmate with a genius IQ, a haunting past, and an unsettling connection to Gap-dong.
As the investigation intensifies, the complex relationships and hidden agendas of the characters unfold, adding layers of suspense and intrigue to the narrative. With each episode, viewers are drawn deeper into the web of deception and psychological warfare surrounding Gap-dong.
The South Korean series captivates audiences with its masterful storytelling, well-rounded characters, and brilliant performances. It explores themes of vengeance, redemption, and the darkness that lurks within the human psyche. “Gap-dong” stands as a testament to the power of South Korean television dramas, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating each twist and turn in the hunt for the elusive serial killer.
As of now, Gap: The Series has not been renewed for a second season, which is common for mainstream Thai dramas unless they are cable network soaps. However, there is still hope. Recent successes of shows with LGBT+ themes like 2gether, Tharntype, The Gifted, and Girl from Nowhere have led to sequels being made.
In November 2022, the director of Gap: The Series frequently expressed on social media that the cast and crew are open to the possibility of a second season. If the show proves successful, there is a chance for a green light on a second season. Additionally, an announcement by executive producer Saint revealed that a new show featuring the leads Freen and Becky is in the works.
If a second season does happen, it could follow the storyline of the novel on which it is based. Alternatively, the writers may choose to deviate from the source material and create a new story building upon the events of the first season. Fans are eager to see more of the side characters like Cher and Risa, as well as explore the relationship between Tee and Yuki, which hints at something more.
Audiences are also excited to witness the next phase of Sam and Mon’s relationship as a married couple, anticipating the challenges they will face and how they will navigate them. After a first season filled with tears and heartbreak, viewers hope for a second season that treats the characters with a bit more ease and happiness.
More entertainment news: