Ko Hyun-jung is opening up about why she didn’t hesitate to sign on for 'The Mantis: Original Sin.'
Premiering Friday, Sept. 5 at 9:50 p.m. on SBS, the new Friday-Saturday drama 'The Mantis: Original Sin' (written by Lee Young-jong, directed by Byun Young-joo) is a high-intensity crime thriller set more than 20 years after the capture of a brutal serial killer known as the “Mantis.” When a series of copycat murders erupts, a detective is forced into an unthinkable partnership with the very person he’s despised his entire life―his mother, the original Mantis.
For 'The Mantis: Original Sin,' director Byun Young-joo ('Helpless') teams with writer Lee Young-jong ('12.12: The Day'). The show’s audacious premise―a serial-killer mom and her detective son joining forces―promises to keep viewers on edge. Most of all, screen icon Ko Hyun-jung (as Jeong Yi-shin) is set for a striking transformation as the Mantis, stoking serious anticipation.
In an interview released on the 20th, Ko explained her decision to join the series: “The project itself was incredibly compelling. Once I got into each episode, I completely lost track of time.” She added, “Writer Lee’s tightly woven narrative was incredibly immersive, and I was curious to see the kind of synergy it would create with director Byun’s keen visual sensibility.”
Ko emphasized, “As an actor, I always hope to be part of great work, so I gladly said yes to 'The Mantis: Original Sin' without hesitation.” Her answers made it clear just how taken she is with the show―and how irresistibly the project drew her in.
She also had high praise for director Byun. Reflecting on their collaboration, Ko said, “Director Byun’s strong leadership and signature wit are in perfect balance. Her seasoned experience translates into precise direction that elevates the work. Her commanding presence grounded the entire set and became a source of strength for the 'The Mantis: Original Sin' team.” Ko added, “When filming wrapped for the day, her humor kept us smiling. I fed off that positive energy and pushed even harder on set.”
A dense, meticulous story, magnetic characters, and a powerhouse creative team and cast―'The Mantis: Original Sin' is the definition of a dream-team project. By all accounts, the set was filled with laughter even on the toughest days, only heightening curiosity for the show Ko chose without hesitation and poured herself into.
'The Mantis: Original Sin' will premiere Friday, Sept. 5 at 9:50 p.m., following the conclusion of the currently airing 'Try: We Become a Miracle.'
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)