K-drama fans can look forward to an intense new release this summer as Lee Dong Wook returns to the small screen in The Nice Guy, a noir romance drama steeped in crime, emotion, and inner conflict. Premiering on July 18, 2025, the series airs on JTBC and is available globally via Disney+ and Viki. With a total of 14 episodes dropping in pairs every Friday, the show will continue its run until August 29.
At the center of the story is Park Seok Chul, portrayed by Lee Dong Wook. Seok Chul is the eldest grandson of a third-generation gangster family but doesn’t embody the typical traits expected from his bloodline. While he’s surrounded by criminal dealings and intense family expectations, he operates with a deep sense of loyalty, duty, and unexpected tenderness. His quiet strength lies in his ability to protect the ones he loves without compromising his moral compass.
Opposite him is Lee Sung Kyung in the role of Kang Mi Young, his first love with dreams of becoming a singer. Their paths cross again amid chaos and emotional baggage, testing the limits of their connection. Mi Young’s presence brings a sense of longing and lost possibility to Seok Chul’s life, further complicating the already high-stakes environment he’s trying to navigate.
The series takes a noir approach, giving the romance a moody, stylized atmosphere. It’s less about dramatic flair and more about quiet tension, emotional undercurrents, and the burden of legacy. This tone is reinforced by the direction of Song Hae Sung and the screenplay by Kim Woon Kyung, both of whom bring a cinematic touch to the storytelling.
Supporting roles help flesh out Seok Chul’s world. Ryu Hye Young plays his sister Park Seok Hee, a fiercely independent character who both challenges and supports her brother. Oh Na Ra appears as Park Seok Gyeong, another complex family figure, while Park Hoon plays Kang Tae Hun, Mi Young’s confidant and a subtle rival in Seok Chul’s journey.
The release schedule follows a consistent pattern, with two episodes airing every Friday at 8:50 PM KST (5:20 PM IST). The finale, consisting of episodes 13 and 14, is set for August 29.
With its fusion of romance, crime drama, and emotional introspection, The Nice Guy stands out among 2025’s offerings. It’s not just another gangster tale—it’s a layered exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the pull of the past. The combination of Lee Dong Wook’s brooding charisma and Lee Sung Kyung’s expressive presence promises a drama that lingers long after the credits roll.