Moving Proves to Be Disney+'s Biggest Korean Sensation | Ryu Seungryong Shares Fascinating Insights

"Moving" has become Disney+'s first Korean hit, following the achievements of "Squid Game" on Netflix and "Pachinko" on Apple TV+. This star-studded Disney+ Original has gained immense global popularity as the most successful K-drama and has surpassed renowned franchises like Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe to become the most-watched series on Disney+ in the Asia Pacific region, while also dominating the streaming charts on Hulu in the US.

"Moving" is a thrilling series that explores the lives of lesser-known Korean superheroes and their families. The first season concluded with its final episode on September 20.

Notably, the series has been nominated for six Asia Content Awards at the Busan International Film Festival, a prestigious event honoring local and international cinema in South Korea's second-largest city. These nominations include Best Writer for Kang Full and Best Actor for Ryu Seungryong. In anticipation of the awards ceremony on October 8, CNN had the opportunity to interview Ryu, wherein he discusses his character, the show's global appeal, and his high expectations for a potential second season.

Korean-style superheroes

In "Moving," actor Cha Taehyun plays a character who has the ability to generate electricity.

Disney+ Original

"Moving" is a contemporary South Korean story that draws inspiration from Kang Full's popular 2015 webtoon of the same title. This narrative revolves around two generations of individuals who possess extraordinary abilities. Among them are those with heightened senses, the ability to fly, and the power to generate electricity.

Portraying the character Jang Ju-Won, Ryu embodies a persona with regenerative powers, granting him the ability to heal from injuries. Described by Ryu as having a challenging existence, Jang Ju-Won can be seen as resembling a monstrous figure.

Ju-Won is a complex character, to say the least. We witness his journey of love, parenthood, and balancing multiple jobs to make ends meet. But amidst it all, we also witness him fighting for his life. In a thrilling and intricate action sequence, Ju-Won endures being beaten up, set on fire, hit by a car, and stabbed multiple times as he bravely takes on a gang of 300 single-handedly (reminiscent of the famous corridor scene in Park Chan-Wook's 2003 film, "Oldboy").

However, "Moving" is not just a gory supernatural action thriller. At its core, the series tells a captivating story about family. "It's a series that takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, with moments of happiness, anger, pain, sadness, and everything in between packed into one unforgettable experience," Ryu commented.

Shifting between the past and present, interweaving heartwarming and often heartbreaking backstories of the characters, the drama portrays parents and children using their super abilities to protect each other from enemies.

According to the actor, the emphasis on family in "Moving" resonates with international audiences. Ryu said, "We all have our families with us. Even if we are unmarried, childless, or have lost our parents, it reminds us of those moments."

As an actor, Ryu said he was drawn to Ju-Wons wide-ranging emotions as both husband and father. In fact, it appealed to him more than being an action hero.

"Moving" features ordinary people with superpowers.

Disney+ Original

Ryu finds "Moving" appealing because it offers hope to viewers by showcasing ordinary individuals transforming into superheroes. According to Ryu, the show inspires viewers, reminding them that they are already giving their best and have unique stories to share. Ryu believes that every person possesses superpowers and should not feel disheartened in a challenging world.

That is also the distinguishing factor of this drama compared to other popular superhero stories, such as Marvel's Avengers - a globally recognized franchise that the actor has been a devoted fan of for a long time. While Marvel and "Moving" share some similarities, Ryu argues that the latter presents a more realistic portrayal, where regular individuals strive to safeguard their families without wearing costumes or uniforms.

Ryu expressed his enthusiasm to potentially star in a second or even third season of "Moving." Although the announcement for the next installment is still pending, Ryu remains optimistic and hopeful.

Ryu said that Kang Full jokingly advised him to ensure his wellbeing as there would be even grander and more impressive scenes in store, in case they proceed with season two. You can watch "Moving" on Disney+ and Hulu.

Yoonjung Seo contributed reporting to this article.