Lee Byung-hun, one of the few Korean actors to be repped by a U.S. talent agency, Endeavor, will co-produce and star in one of the most expensive Korean TV series to date.
Lee, who stars in Paramount Pictures’ upcoming “G.I. Joe,” has pacted with Taewon Entertainment and KangJeGyu Film to produce blockbuster TV series “IRIS.”
Developed by “Taegukgi” director Kang Je-gyu, the $22 million skein is co-scripted by writers at KangJeGyu Film and A-Story.
Helmed by TV producer Lee Hyung-min (“Sorry, I Love You”), the series will be shot this year in the U.S., Russia, Japan and China. The spy actioner features four main characters, but the plot has not been divulged.
“IRIS” has been set up without a Korean broadcaster, and producers are expected to play nets off each other for the property. Sources at Taewon also report strong interest from Japanese TV channels due to Lee’s attachment.
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Lee recently wrapped Kim Ji-woon’s “The Good, the Bad and the Weird” and Tran Anh Hung’s “I Come With the Rain,” which could be headed for Cannes if it is completed in time.
“IRIS” is his first TV series since “All In” nearly five years ago.
