Netflix has officially begun filming Mantis, a spin-off of the hit South Korean movie Kill Boksoon. With a stellar cast and gripping storyline, Mantis is poised to captivate viewers when it premieres in 2025.
What Is Mantis About?
Mantis (also known as Samagwi) dives back into the chaotic world of assassins. The story follows Mantis, a top-tier hitman and former colleague of Kill Boksoon’s Gil Boksoon. After taking a break from his deadly career, Mantis returns to an industry in disarray. He soon finds himself entangled in a battle for supremacy alongside Jae-yi, a talented yet sidelined killer, and Dok-go, a retired assassin turned leader.
Here’s Netflix’s official synopsis:
“Mantis, an ace assassin and a former colleague of Gil Boksoon, returns to a collapsed-order hired killer industry after his vacation. Upon reentering this anarchic world, Mantis encounters Jae-yi, his fellow trainee and rival, and Dok-go, a retired legendary killer, and realizes they are all vying for the top spot among the killers.”
Who Is in the Cast?
Netflix has announced three lead actors for Mantis.
Park Gyu Young as Jae-yi
Park Gyu Young, known for her roles in Sweet Home and Celebrity, will play Jae-yi. She is also part of the upcoming Squid Game Season 2.
Character Description – Jae-yi is a highly skilled assassin who was ousted by MK Entertainment after falling out of favor with her bosses. She shares a complicated relationship with Mantis, stemming from his extraordinary abilities.
Yim Si Wan as Han-ul (Mantis)
Yim Si Wan, previously seen in Netflix dramas Thirty-Nine and Run On, takes on the role of Mantis. He will also appear in Squid Game Season 2.
Character Description – Mantis is a top assassin for MK Entertainment. Once referenced in Kill Boksoon as being “on vacation,” he returns to a chaotic industry to reclaim his position.
Jo Woo Jin as Dok-go
Jo Woo Jin, known for Narco-Saints, Mr. Sunshine, and Happiness, will portray Dok-go.
Character Description – Dok-go is a retired assassin and founding member of MK Entertainment. Now serving as its CEO after the death of Cha Min-kyu, he hopes to bring Mantis back into the fold.
Production Updates
Filming for Mantis began in late August 2024, with Netflix confirming production on September 2. The action-packed movie is directed by Lee Tae Sung and created by Byun Sung Hyun, the mastermind behind Kill Boksoon.
When Will Mantis Be Released?
Netflix has scheduled Mantis for release in 2025. Given the filming timeline, fans can likely expect the movie to drop in late 2025, around November or December.
Why Is Mantis Worth Watching?
The original film, Kill Boksoon, garnered over 63.3 million viewing hours on Netflix, equivalent to approximately 27.5 million views. With its blend of action, drama, and star-studded cast, Mantis is set to deliver another thrilling ride in the assassin-filled universe of MK Entertainment.
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