Netflix’s new series “Trigger” puts illegal gun violence in the spotlight, arriving at a time when South Korea is facing renewed concerns over firearm crime. Just a day before its press conference, a tragic incident shook the nation. A 63-year-old man allegedly shot and killed his own son during his birthday celebration in Incheon. The weapon was an illegal firearm. That rare and horrifying case brought gun violence back into national focus.
Director Kwon Oh-seung spoke about this tragedy during the show’s press event. He said “Trigger” serves as a stark warning about gun-related crime. “When you watch the series,” he said, “you’ll see the clear message that this kind of violence should never happen.” Kwon explained that the story explores what happens when guns are suddenly made widely available in a divided society. He wanted to shift the role of firearms from mere tools to the heart of the narrative.
In the 10-episode thriller, viewers follow E-do, played by Kim Nam-gil. E-do is a former sniper who now works as a police officer. He joins forces with Moon-baek, played by Kim Young-kwang. Moon-baek is mysterious and unpredictable, and the two form an uneasy alliance. Together, they confront the spread of illegal gun violence caused by deliberate weapons distribution.
Kim Nam-gil described his character as a man battling internal doubts about using guns. He tries to avoid violence whenever possible. To reflect that, he performed action scenes in a more restrained style. Meanwhile, Kim Young-kwang said Moon-baek asks the story’s biggest questions. He enjoyed portraying a character who evolves over time and drives the plot forward.
The series examines who should have the right to carry a gun. It asks whether violence is ever justified if it prevents something worse. Through its storytelling, “Trigger” challenges viewers to rethink the role of firearms in modern life.
“Trigger” premieres on Netflix this Friday. It arrives just as concerns about illegal gun violence grow louder in South Korea. The timing couldn’t be more powerful.
