Gangnam B-side review: Ji Chang-wook, Jo Woo-jin take the cake in gritty drama

Most K-dramas show that Gangnam is one of the high-end places in Seoul where the rich hangout. But Gangnam is no exception to the phrase – every coin has two sides. Directed by Park Noo-ri, Gangnam B-side takes you to the dark side of this ‘elite’ area.
Disney+ Hotstar’s new crime drama Gangnam B-side stars Jo Woo-jin, Ji Chang-wook, Ha Yoon-kyung, and Bibi, each delivering compelling performances in this gritty drama. But will it suit your taste? Let’s dive in.
The story revolves around Kang Dong-woo (Jo Woo-jin), a former lead investigator on a police corruption probe who, after being ostracised by his peers and estranged from his family, finds himself relocated to a quiet rural post. However, his past comes calling when a friend’s daughter goes missing in Seoul’s notorious Gangnam district. He soon becomes entwined with broker Yoon Gil-ho (Ji Chang-wook) and prosecutor Min Seo-jin (Ha Yoon-kyung) as they dive into a world of vice, narcotics, and dark secrets involving the elite.
Watch the trailer here:

The series wastes no time establishing Dong-woo’s unwavering sense of duty, even when it places him at odds with his superiors and colleagues. His commitment to justice, despite the consequences, makes him a character to root for, especially when he returns to Gangnam, hoping to make things right in his own life and for others in his care.
Ji Chang-wook stands out as Gil-ho, a morally complex character who, despite his unsavoury occupation, has a fierce loyalty to the women under his watch.
Chang-wook brings both charisma and intensity to the role, and his action scenes are particularly thrilling, showcasing his range. Gil-ho’s protective streak and righteous anger make him one of the more nuanced “pimps” depicted on screen, almost like a big brother to the women around him.
Ha Yoon-kyung’s portrayal of prosecutor Min Seo-jin, while not as prominent in the initial episodes, exudes a quiet determination. Her character shows promise as an unwavering force in a setting filled with ethical ambiguity.
Bibi, who made her debut in The Worst of Evil and showcased a wonderful screen presence in that drama, has, so far, not been a letdown.
From a production standpoint, the series boasts of solid direction, though the story’s premise — three individuals from different worlds uniting for a common cause — has been explored before. Yet, it’s elevated by sharp stunt choreography and captivating cinematography, particularly in the fight sequences where Chang-wook shines.
One highlight in episode two includes a haunting tune preceding Gil-ho’s fight scene, subtly intensifying the tension and proving that, while the soundtrack might lack memorable standouts (as of now), the music serves its purpose well when it matters.
Instead of focusing on Gangnam’s usual glamour, director Park Noo-ri paints a raw, almost noir-like picture of corruption, addiction, and desperation lurking in the shadows of the city’s elite. By doing so, the series adds a gritty layer to the typical K-drama crime genre, making the viewer question the price of power and privilege.
Overall, Gangnam B-side manages to establish a dark, intense tone and lays out a promising plot, though its real potential will depend on how it develops in future episodes. So far, this well-acted drama has great potential, even if its plot may feel familiar.