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Ji Chang-wook's 'The Manipulated' Becomes Global Hit

1/3/2026

46 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ji Chang-wook stars in Hulu's The Manipulated, which debuted on November 5, 2025, and has become a global hit.
The Manipulated follows Park Tae-jung, wrongfully imprisoned, who seeks revenge against the CEO who framed him.
It ranks #5 on Disney+/Hulu in South Korea and #6 in Taiwan.
Cashero, Netflix's superhero K-drama, premiered December 26, 2025 and ranks #2 in Netflix's Top 10 Non-English Shows.

History

Historical Context

The Korean Wave, or Hallyu, began in the late 1990s, following the end of military censorship and the 1997 Asian financial crisis, which prompted South Korea to export cultural products. By 2004, Korean dramas like *Winter Sonata* generated over $100 million in exports, significantly influencing global entertainment and tourism, as evidenced by a rise in visitors from Japan and beyond.

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Story summary

Ji Chang-wook stars in Hulu's The Manipulated, which debuted on November 5, 2025, and has become a global hit.
The Manipulated follows Park Tae-jung, wrongfully imprisoned, who seeks revenge against the CEO who framed him.
It ranks #5 on Disney+/Hulu in South Korea and #6 in Taiwan.
Cashero, Netflix's superhero K-drama, premiered December 26, 2025 and ranks #2 in Netflix's Top 10 Non-English Shows.

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