Song Kang-ho, one of Korea’s most celebrated actors, is set to make his Hollywood debut in the second season of the US anthology drama “Beef.” The actor previously expressed his desire to build his presence in the US through Korean-language projects, citing the pivotal role language plays in acting.
According to Netflix, Song will appear as a guest star in the new installment. Details about his role remain under wraps, and it is unclear whether he will perform in English, the primary language of the series.
Song has previously shared his thoughts on working in Hollywood. In an interview with local media earlier this month, he said, “In truth, I’ve received offers to work with very famous actors and directors in Hollywood, and I still get such proposals. However, I politely decline them.”
“Personally, I believe that acting is shaped by language. While it’s possible to learn and memorize lines in a foreign language, I think language contains the invisible history and traditions of a country,” Song explained. “I want to connect with global audiences through excellent Korean films, like 'Parasite.'”
The first season of "Beef," which premiered last year, starred Korean American actor Steven Yeun and comedian Ali Wong. The series earned widespread critical acclaim, becoming the most-awarded anthology series of the 2023-2024 season. It won eight Emmy Awards, four Critics Choice Awards, three Golden Globes, two Gotham Awards, two Independent Spirit Awards and two SAG Awards, as well as honors from the PGA, WGA and AFI.
Season one followed the story of a road rage incident between strangers Danny Cho (Yeun), a struggling contractor, and Amy Lau (Wong), an entrepreneur.
The second season will introduce a new cast and storyline, spanning eight 30-minute episodes. It centers on a young couple, played by Cailee Spaeny and Charles Melton, who witness a heated argument between their boss and his wife. The encounter plunges them into a web of favors and coercion within the elitist world of a country club, led by a Korean billionaire owner (Yeun).
Although Netflix has not announced an official release date, season two of "Beef" is expected to premiere in late 2025 or early 2026.
yoonseo.3348@heraldcorp.com
