K-Content News

Netflix's 'The Trauma Code' aims to redefine medical dramas with action, comedy

  By Woo Jae-yeon

SEOUL, Jan. 21 (Yonhap) -- Netflix's upcoming Korean original series "The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call" is like a miracle drug -- a witty and heartfelt narrative led by a legendary surgeon with superhero-like qualities, its director said Tuesday.

"We call it a medical drama, but in reality, it doesn't fit that definition at all, which makes it unique," director Lee Doo-yoon, known for the 2014 crime-thriller "Confession," said during a press conference.

Unlike conventional medical series, the upcoming one combines action, comedy and deeply human stories within the hero narrative, offering a fresh perspective on the genre, according to the director.

"It feels more like a heroic epic," he said. "When something unjust happens, or when an incident arises where a chance to save lives is almost lost, the protagonist takes the natural course of action to save lives."

Based on the popular webtoon, "Severe Trauma Center: Golden Hour," the series follows the story of Baek Kang-hyuk, played by Ju Ji-hoon, a mysterious, battle-hardened doctor with experience in global conflict zones.

Kang-hyuk's sudden arrival at a university hospital to lead a severe trauma team surprises and inspires those around him. His unorthodox methods and daring surgical style redefine the hospital's approach to trauma care. Under his mentorship, the team evolves into a group of life-saving mavericks, though the hospital grapples with financial strains as the increasing number of patients leads to mounting losses.
  Lead actor Ju, marking his second collaboration with the director after "Confession," described the series as "a medical action drama that is refreshing and exhilarating."

"It is a story about triumphing over injustices and obstacles in a deeply satisfying way," he added.

He also discussed the challenge of portraying his somewhat cartoonish character without appearing "mocking or dismissive in situations involving life-and-death cases."

"We spent a lot of time deliberating on how to address the dilemma, engaging in hours of discussion," he said.
  Choo Young-woo, known for his roles in TV series like "The Tale of Lady Ok," takes on the role of junior doctor Yang Jae-won, who evolves into a skilled and compassionate doctor -- a journey the director likened to "a coming-of-age" story for the character.

"The narrative of the original webtoon is very solid," Choo said, adding he felt a deep connection to his character and could strongly empathize with his character's feelings toward Kang-hyuk.

The series is partly filmed in the exotic location of Morocco over three weeks in collaboration with a local production company. It also features some mega-budget sequences, including one involving a patient-carrying helicopter.

"Some of the scenes were challenging to pull off, but I'm pleased we were able to achieve what we envisioned," he said, expressing satisfaction with the results.

"The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call" is set for release Friday.