Becoming Kim (2026)

Becoming Kim (2026) is an upcoming action-thriller film set in the near future, focusing on the reactivation of a retired secret agent known as Agent Kim. The protagonist, played by So Ji-sub, leads a quiet life as a bank employee and devoted single father until his daughter becomes the target of dangerous underground forces. To protect her, he is forced to shed his civilian identity and return to his past as a high-level operative, confronting old enemies while navigating a complex web of political intrigue.

The film blends intense martial arts choreography with emotional family drama, aiming to deliver both visceral thrills and heartfelt moments. Directed by Lee Seung-young and Lee Jo-eun, the movie has been positioned as a major commercial release in South Korea, capitalizing on the popularity of the 'retired hero' genre. Early promotional materials highlight the contrast between Kim's mundane daily routine and the lethal skills he must resurrect to ensure his family's safety.

• So Ji-sub reprises or takes on the lead role of Kim, marking one of his most physically demanding roles in recent years.
• The script was written by Nam Dae-joong, who previously collaborated on successful Korean action series.
• Production involved extensive stunt coordination to create realistic close-quarters combat sequences without relying solely on CGI.
• Trailer releases have generated significant buzz for its blend of gritty realism and stylized action reminiscent of classics like Oldboy but with a modern techno-thriller aesthetic.