D.P.

D.P.

D.P. (Deserter Pursuit) is a gripping South Korean military drama that explores the emotional and psychological toll of compulsory service. Set within the rigid structure of the Korean army, the series follows An Jun Ho, a quiet and observant private played by Jung Hae In, who is recruited into the army’s secretive D.P. (Deserter Pursuit) unit—a team tasked with tracking down soldiers who have deserted their posts. As Jun Ho partners with the rebellious and street-smart Han Ho Yeol, portrayed by the charismatic Koo Kyo Hwan, the duo embarks on missions that take them beyond military life and deep into the private struggles of deserters. Each case unravels a new story of trauma, abuse, and survival, offering a raw look into the flaws of the military system and the societal pressure placed on young men in Korea. The drama is elevated by powerful performances from Kim Sung Kyun as Park Beom Gu, the stern unit leader, and Son Suk Ku as Im Ji Seop, whose cold and calculated demeanor reflects the system’s darker realities. Supporting roles from Hong Kyung (Ryu I Gang) and Jo Hyun Chul (Cho Seok Bong) add emotional weight, making each deserter’s tale deeply personal and tragically human. Praised for its realism, strong acting, and thought-provoking storyline, D.P. is more than a military chase drama—it's a deep dive into conscience, justice, and empathy. Streaming now on Netflix, this K-drama is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers, military dramas, and social commentary in Korean entertainment.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 디피
🌎 Also Known As: Deserter Pursuit, D.P. Dog Day, D.P. Gaeui Nal, D.P 개의 날
🎭 Genres: Action, Military, Drama, Psychological, Crime
🏷 Tags: Military Police, Army Life, Deserter Pursuit, Based on Webtoon, Bromance, Abuse of Power, Social Commentary
Screenwriters: Kim Bo-tong, Han Jun-hee
🎬 Directors: Han Jun-hee
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 6 (Season 1)
🗓️ Aired: August 27, 2021
📅 Airing Days: Friday
📺 Original Network: Netflix
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: TV-MA (Mature Audiences)

  • Suk-Bong’s Emotional Breakdown (Episode 6)
    A heart-wrenching climax where Suk-Bong confronts his tormentor, highlighting the devastating effects of military bullying.

  • Jun-Ho and Ho-Yeol’s Bromance Moments
    Their camaraderie provides emotional depth and occasional comic relief amidst the intense narrative.

  • Interrogation Room Confrontation
    A tense scene where Jun-Ho challenges military authority, showcasing his moral compass and the show’s critique of institutional flaws.

  • Deserter’s Escape Sequence
    A gripping chase that combines action with the emotional turmoil of a soldier pushed to the edge.

  • Final Scene with Jun-Ho Walking Away
    A symbolic moment reflecting his internal conflict and the overarching theme of personal conscience versus duty.

  • Seoul’s Urban Landscapes
    The city’s streets and alleys provide a realistic backdrop for the deserter pursuits.

  • Military Training Grounds
    Authentic military facilities were used to depict the rigorous training and hierarchical structure.

  • Busan’s Coastal Areas
    Scenes shot in Busan add a contrasting serene environment to the intense storyline.

  • Traditional Korean Neighborhoods
    These settings highlight the personal lives and backgrounds of deserters, adding cultural depth.

  • Remote Countryside Locations
    Used to depict the isolation and desperation of soldiers on the run.

  • Authentic Military Uniforms
    Costumes accurately represent the South Korean military attire, enhancing realism.

  • Deserters’ Civilian Clothes
    Wardrobe choices reflect the psychological states and backgrounds of each deserter.

  • Use of Color Palettes
    Muted tones dominate, emphasizing the bleakness of military life and the gravity of desertion.

  • Attention to Detail in Props
    Military insignias, badges, and equipment are meticulously designed for authenticity.

  • Contrast Between Military and Civilian Worlds
    Visual design effectively differentiates the structured military environment from the chaotic civilian life.

  • Critique of Military Hierarchy and Bullying
    The series exposes the dark side of military life, including hazing and abuse of power.

  • Moral Ambiguity and Personal Conscience
    Characters grapple with ethical dilemmas, questioning orders versus personal beliefs.

  • Psychological Impact of Military Service
    Highlights the mental health struggles faced by soldiers, including PTSD and depression.

  • Societal Pressure and Expectations
    Explores how societal norms and expectations can lead individuals to extreme actions.

  • Empathy and Understanding
    Encourages viewers to understand the personal stories behind each deserter, fostering empathy.

  • Based on a Webtoon
    The series is adapted from the webtoon “D.P Dog’s Day” by Kim Bo-tong, who also co-wrote the screenplay.

  • Realistic Portrayal Praised by Veterans
    Many South Korean veterans have commended the show’s accurate depiction of military life.

  • International Recognition
    D.P. has received acclaim worldwide, highlighting issues within the South Korean military to a global audience.

  • Season 2 Released in 2023
    The second season continues to delve deeper into the complexities of military desertion and institutional flaws.

  • Increased Awareness and Dialogue
    The series has sparked conversations about military reform and mental health support for soldiers.

Awards and Honors for D.P.

🎖️ 58th Baeksang Arts Awards (2022)

  • Best DramaD.P.

  • Best Supporting Actor (TV)Cho Hyun-chul

  • Best New Actor (TV)Koo Kyo-hwan

🐉 1st Blue Dragon Series Awards (2022)

  • Best DramaD.P.

  • Best New ActorKoo Kyo-hwan

🎬 20th Director’s Cut Awards (2022)

  • Best Actor (TV)Koo Kyo-hwan

  • Best New Actor (TV)Cho Hyun-chul

🌟 8th APAN Star Awards (2022)

  • Top Excellence Award, Actor in an OTT DramaJung Hae-in

🏅 27th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (2023)

  • Series Film AwardD.P.

🏆 14th Korea Drama Awards (2023)

  • Excellence Award, ActorKim Sung-kyun


These accolades underscore D.P.‘s impactful storytelling and exceptional performances, solidifying its status as a standout series in Korean television.

There was no real-life romantic relationship that developed among the cast members of the Korean drama D.P. during or after filming. The series primarily focuses on military life and does not center around romantic storylines.

However, during a press conference for D.P., actor Koo Kyo-hwan humorously mentioned wanting to “go on a date” with his co-star Jung Hae-in to strengthen their on-screen chemistry. He clarified that this was a lighthearted comment aimed at building a better working relationship, not an indication of a real romantic interest.

In reality, Koo Kyo-hwan has been in a long-term relationship with director Yi Ok-seop since 2013. Jung Hae-in, on the other hand, has kept his personal life private and has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships.

Therefore, while the actors share a strong professional rapport and on-screen camaraderie, there is no evidence of a real-life romantic relationship stemming from the production of D.P.

Seasons

D.P. Season 2
D.P. Season 2

Trailer

Music / OST

Gallery

Cast

Hyun Bong Sik
Hyun Bong Sik
Jung Hae In
Jung Hae In
Kim Sung Kyun
Kim Sung Kyun
Koo Kyo Hwan
Koo Kyo Hwan
Lee Jun Young
Lee Jun Young
Shin Seung Ho
Shin Seung Ho

Share on Social

We would appreciate it if you could share this on social media and support us. Let’s grow Asian World together.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *