Hey, everyone! How’s it going? Today I’m here to review the drama Trigger, which promises to be one of Netflix’s most intense Korean thrillers of 2025. This isn’t just another action series – it’s a bold exploration of what happens when a gun-free society suddenly faces an unprecedented firearms crisis that will keep you glued to your screen.
Trigger is set to premiere worldwide on Netflix on July 25, 2025, featuring 10 explosive episodes with approximately 50 minutes each. Written and directed by Kwon Oh-seung, this action-thriller takes on the controversial topic of gun violence in a society that has lived peacefully without firearms for decades. The series masterfully combines high-octane action with deep social commentary, creating a viewing experience that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking.
The ten-part series explores a terrifying scenario where illegal firearms mysteriously flood into South Korea, a country known for having some of the strictest gun laws in the world. What starts as isolated incidents quickly spirals into a nationwide crisis that threatens to tear the very fabric of Korean society apart.
When Illegal Firearms Shatter a Peaceful Nation
An action-thriller drama about two men who are trying to solve the mess after firearms become suddenly widely available in South Korea through an unknown source. The purchase, selling, or owning of a gun is banned in South Korea, and there are almost zero crime cases involving guns in the country – until everything changes overnight. The plot brilliantly explores how quickly chaos can consume a society unprepared for such violence.
The series doesn’t shy away from the brutal reality of what happens when weapons designed for war suddenly appear in civilian hands. Every episode builds tension as the mysterious source of these illegal firearms remains hidden, creating a cat-and-mouse game that will have you questioning everyone’s motives.
Lee Do: The Righteous Detective with Military Precision
Kim Nam-gil delivers a powerhouse performance as Yi-Do, a righteous detective whose military background as a sniper becomes both his greatest asset and heaviest burden. His character represents the moral compass of the series – a man who understands the devastating power of firearms better than anyone else, yet must use that knowledge to protect innocent lives.
Yi-Do’s internal struggle between his peaceful detective work and his lethal military training creates some of the most compelling character development you’ll see in 2025. Kim Nam-gil brings raw authenticity to every scene, especially when Lee Do realizes that his sniper skills might be the only thing standing between order and complete chaos.
Moon-Baek: The Enigmatic Arms Broker with Hidden Motives
Kim Young-kwang absolutely steals every scene as Moon-Baek, a key figure in the underground arms broker world who acts easygoing but meticulously plans every move. The chemistry between Kim Young-kwang and Kim Nam-gil creates an electric dynamic that drives the entire series forward.
Moon-Baek represents the moral ambiguity that makes Trigger so compelling – is he part of the solution or the problem? Kim Young-kwang masterfully portrays a character where you’re never quite sure if you should trust him or fear him, creating tension that permeates every interaction.
The Explosive Climax That Defines a Nation’s Future
Without spoiling the major revelations, the final episodes deliver some of the most intense action sequences Netflix has ever produced for a Korean series. The climax isn’t just about stopping the gun violence – it’s about whether South Korea can maintain its identity as a peaceful society or if it will be forever changed by this crisis.
The series builds to a confrontation that will determine not just the fate of our protagonists, but the future of an entire nation. The emotional stakes are just as high as the physical ones, creating a finale that’s both explosive and deeply meaningful.
Success on Netflix
Netflix’s bold decision to tackle gun violence in Korean society through Trigger represents a significant investment in socially conscious entertainment that doesn’t sacrifice thrills for message. The 10-episode format allows for deep character development while maintaining breakneck pacing throughout. With Kim Nam-gil, Kim Young-kwang, Woo Ji-hyun, and Kim Won-hae leading an exceptional ensemble cast, Trigger proves that action thrillers can address serious social issues without losing their edge. This series demonstrates Netflix’s commitment to producing Korean content that resonates globally.
If you love intense action dramas with meaningful social commentary, Trigger is the perfect series to binge on Netflix. This isn’t just another thriller – it’s a masterclass in how to blend explosive entertainment with important societal questions that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
Trigger delivers everything you want in a premium streaming experience – incredible performances, heart-stopping action, and a powerful message about violence and society that makes it essential viewing.
Series Details:
- Number of Episodes: 10
- Platform: Netflix
- Rating: Not yet rated (premieres July 25, 2025)
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Crime, Social Drama
- Protagonists: Kim Nam-gil (Lee Do), Kim Young-kwang (Moon-Baek)
- Antagonist: Unknown arms dealers and the systemic forces behind the gun trafficking crisis