'Squid Game 2' Star Joins 10-Million Audience Hit Actor: This Year’s Most Anticipated Film

The highly anticipated crime action film 'YADANG: The Snitch' starring top Korean actors Kang Ha-neul, Yoo Hae-jin, and Park Hae-joon is set to hit theaters on April 23. With its stellar cast and compelling storyline, many are speculating whether it will claim the title of 2025’s first 10-million audience hit.

On February 5, distributor Plus M Entertainment revealed the film’s release date along with its official launch poster, featuring Kang Ha-neul, Yoo Hae-jin, and Park Hae-joon. The actors are captured in intense, charismatic poses that immediately grabbed the attention of fans.

A Gripping Tale of Crime, Deception, and Power

'YADANG: The Snitch' delves into the high-stakes world of South Korea’s drug trade and law enforcement, revolving around a key insider known as "Yadang" who plays a crucial role in disrupting the drug network. The film highlights the complex interplay between detectives striving to dismantle drug crimes, ambitious prosecutors seeking power, and brokers competing for control of the market. Inspired by real but lesser-known criminal activities related to drug investigations, the film promises high tension and gritty realism.

Why 'YADANG' is Already Drawing Major Attention

One reason for the film’s buzz is its production by Hive Media Corp., known for producing hits like 'Inside Men', 'The Last Princess', 'Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum', 'High Society', and '12.12: THE DAY'. 'Inside Men' attracted over 7 million moviegoers in 2015, while '12.12: THE DAY' surpassed 10 million viewers in 2023, cementing Hive Media’s reputation for delivering box-office hits.

Park Hae-joon, who played a pivotal role in '12.12: THE DAY' as No Tae-geon, will reunite with Hive Media for 'YADANG', further raising expectations.

A Star-Studded Cast Promising Explosive Performances

Kang Ha-neul plays Lee Kang-soo, an insider who secretly provides crucial information about the drug world to law enforcement. Following his global fame from 'Squid Game 2' and critically acclaimed performances in films and dramas like 'Dongju', 'Midnight Runners', 'Misaeng', and 'When the Camellia Blooms', Kang Ha-neul’s involvement is a major draw for audiences.

Park Hae-joon takes on the role of Oh Sang-jae, the leader of the narcotics unit. Known for his powerful performances in 'The Broker' and '12.12: THE DAY', as well as hit dramas like 'Misaeng' and 'The World of the Married', Park’s commanding on-screen presence is expected to bring intensity to the film.

Yoo Hae-jin, one of Korea’s most beloved actors with multiple 10-million audience hits under his belt ('The King and the Clown', 'Veteran', 'A Taxi Driver'), plays an ambitious prosecutor from humble beginnings. His comedic charm and versatile acting skills, seen across films and shows like 'Three Meals a Day', have made him a fan favorite.

As Korea’s film market faces challenges, many industry insiders are watching to see if 'YADANG' can reignite interest and become the year’s first major box-office success. With its release set for April 23, all eyes are on this high-stakes crime action movie and its star-studded lineup to see if it can break the 10-million audience milestone.