Disney+ is gearing up for a powerful new historical series. Young stars Shin Ye-eun, Rowoon, and Park Seo-ham lead Turbid Stream, promising a gripping tale of rebellion in a corrupt Joseon society. Veteran actors Park Ji-hwan, Choi Gwi-hwa, and Kim Dong-won add weight, grounding the drama in raw, realistic performances.
A Harsh Joseon, and Those Who Resist
Turbid Stream tells the story of outsiders determined to overturn a rotten system. Rowoon plays Jang Si-yul, a vagabond hiding a painful past. "He's like a lone wolf," Rowoon described, revealing his transformation with tangled hair, dust-caked skin, and a hardened demeanor. The actor emphasized the thrill of expanding his acting range, even through grueling action sequences.
Shin Ye-eun portrays Choi Eun, the daughter of a merchant leader. Intelligent and righteous, she dares to stand against injustice. Cast unexpectedly after a chance meeting with the director, Shin immersed herself in training, even relearning abacus skills to embody her role. "Senior actors like Park Ji-hwan and Choi Gwi-hwa gave me so much advice," she noted.
Camaraderie on Set
The youthful cast bonded quickly, driving each other to stronger performances. Shin praised her co-stars' dedication: "We kept pushing until we got the best takes." Rowoon called Shin "a light on set," admiring her positivity despite uncomfortable costumes. Park Seo-ham highlighted Rowoon's generosity: "He gave feedback even for scenes he wasn't in."
Director Choo Chang-min created a warm atmosphere, which the cast agreed fueled their best work. The actors also teased stunning visuals, with Rowoon hinting: "Night scenes with lantern light are especially beautiful—watch with the lights off."
A Drama to Remember
Shin Ye-eun concluded, "It's a harmony of music, acting, and direction. The first two episodes left me with lingering emotions." Rowoon added, "This project was so precious I could give up everything for it."
Turbid Stream premieres September 26 with three episodes, followed by two new episodes weekly from October 3.