Gangnam B-Side first impression: Ji Chang-wook is effortlessly cool in action

Gangnam B-Side is the perfect watch if you're a Ji Chang-wook fan who has been waiting to see him in action

Ji Chang-wook in Gangnam B-Side

Story:

Jenny figures out that the only way out of the industry she is stuck in, is death. Thus, she flees and hopes to never be found. However, with her going missing, there's another murder which raises suspicion. What is really going down in Gangnam, Seoul? Find out.

Review:

Set in Gangnam, Seoul, in Korea, the series starts well with work in what appears to be an abandoned building but is actually an underground pub. Everything that is about to unfold, begins from the very place, thus making it the most important part of the story.

Jo Woo-jin as Captain Kang Dong-woo still develops in the first two episodes. His role really develops in the second episode. Oh Ye-ju in the role of his daughter Kang Ye-seo leaves a mark even in her brief appearance.

Kim Do-hyun in the role of Joo Yoon is someone you’d want to keep an eye on. His character is not completely unfolded yet, but this man has a lot to offer nonetheless.

Hyun Bong-sik's Kim Jang-ho sets the mood for a shady story through his actions right from the beginning of the series. He fits right into the role. With his roles, you almost never know which side is he on, and that streak continues with Gangnam B-Side. The look, however, doesn't suit his character.

BIBI, in the role of Jennie, takes her time but eventually fits in. When she actually gets into the character, there's no looking back. The mystery around her character is set well, too. It is, however, Park Joo-won in the role of Lee Jung-hwa who lingers on your mind longer because of what happens to her just moments before her death.

Ji Chang-wook's entry as Gil-ho is almost soon after, and it screams superstardom. Soon after, he gets into the skin of a deadly gangster you don't wish to mess with.

Just as the story moves forward, more suspense is developed with his character. As always, he leaves a lasting impression on you with his role.

Chang-wook in action is the hottest thing in the series so far. He is effortlessly cool, even if his traits match that of an antagonist more than the protagonist.

Jung Ga-ram as Noh Jun-seo is the face of an arrogant drug-addict who uses substance to feel the power. He nails that part in his role. As someone who enjoys wealth, this man goes to any and every extent to keep being himself. He does not let his innocent face turn into a weakness and that is remarkable for his role.

The story is complicated and takes time to develop, but once you get the hang of it, thereon, you are on a smooth ride (to living hell). One case changes your perspective about the show, and things only get messier thereon. If psychological crime-thrillers are your thing, Gangnam B-Side is right up your alley.

Verdict:

If you were planning to watch Gangnam B-Side for Ji Chang-wook, you made the right choice. He is just getting started and promises a lot more, especially on the action front.

As for the story, many aspects are not yet clear but that is the beauty of this series. The pace is perfect and all works well. Mind you, it works well but isn't the absolute best out there, not so far.

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