A new South Korean fantasy series, Twelve, is poised to introduce an ambitious vision of heroism to global audiences. Starring Ma Dong-seok (also known as Don Lee) and Park Hyung-sik, the series reimagines Eastern Zodiac mythology, presenting 12 celestial beings living among humans who secretly protect humanity from malevolent forces.
This high-concept action series is set to premiere on Disney+ and KBS 2TV Mini-series simultaneously on Saturday, August 23.
Twelve positions itself as a modern hero story rooted in ancient lore. The series follows 12 angels, each embodying one of the 12 Zodiac animals, who exist in human form to defend the world. These guardians form a sprawling universe that connects ancient times to the present day.
Ma Dong-seok, the global star known for The Outlaws franchise and Marvel’s Eternals, takes on the lead role of Taesan, the Tiger Guardian. As the most powerful among the 12 celestial warriors, Taesan must unlock his ancient powers and rally the other guardians to shield the human world from chaos.
Opposing these protectors is Park Hyung-sik, who portrays Ogui, a mysterious villain symbolizing the crow. Following his acclaimed performance in Buried Hearts, Park brings a sharp intensity to this antagonist, who harbours a desire to corrupt the world with evil. The initial poster for Twelve highlights the contrasting presences of Taesan and Ogui, hinting at monumental battles.
An Ensemble of Heroes
The series features a diverse ensemble of actors portraying the Zodiac guardians. Seo In-guk (Doom at Your Service) plays Wonseung, the playful Monkey Guardian. Lee Joo-bin (Queen of Tears) is Miru, the Dragon Guardian, whose powers were sealed centuries ago. Ko Gyu-pil (The Outlaws 3) takes on the role of the Pig Guardian, Doni.
Other guardians include Kang Mina as Kangji, the swift Dog Guardian; Seong Yu-bin as Jwidol, the quick-thinking Rat Guardian; Ahn Ji-hye as Malsuk, the spirited Horse Guardian; and Regina Rae as Bangul, the Snake Guardian, making her Korean debut. Veteran actor Sung Dong-il plays Marok, the sole human chosen by the divine to oversee these 12 protectors.
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Co-directed by Lee Hae-jun and Kim Byung-seo, known for their work on films like Ashfall and Castaway on the Moon, Twelve aims to deliver unique and thrilling action sequences. Produced by STUDIO X+U, Content Z, Big Punch Pictures, and Nova Film, in co-production with The Contents ON and Monster Union, the series promises a compelling blend of fantasy and action. It introduces fantastical dungeons, uniquely powerful monsters, and an expanded universe, aiming to set a new standard for live-action adaptations.
