The powerhouse Korean crime-action saga The Roundup is gearing up for its fifth explosive chapter, and this time, rising star Kim Jae Yeong has officially been confirmed to take on the mantle of the new villain.
On January 12, JTBC broke the news that Kim Jae Yeong will headline The Roundup 5 as the central antagonist. The film is currently in pre-production, with plans to kick off filming later this year. His agency, Management S, quickly followed up with a statement: “Kim Jae Yeong will be joining ‘The Roundup 5’ as a villain.”
A Franchise That Keeps Breaking Records
Since its debut in October 2017, The Roundup series—led by action titan Ma Dong Seok (Don Lee)—has become a cultural phenomenon in Korean cinema. Each installment has delivered gritty crime stories, larger-than-life villains, and box-office domination. By 2024, The Roundup 4 had cemented the franchise’s legendary status, making history as the first Korean film series to have three consecutive installments surpass 10 million moviegoers, with a staggering 40 million cumulative admissions across the saga.
The villains have always been a highlight of the series, with unforgettable performances from Yoon Kye Sang, Son Suk Ku, Lee Jun Hyuk, and Kim Mu Yeol. Now, Kim Jae Yeong steps into this coveted lineup as the fifth major villain, raising anticipation for how he will bring his own unique intensity to the role.
Kim Jae Yeong’s Journey to the Big Screen
Kim Jae Yeong first entered the entertainment industry as a model in 2011 before transitioning into acting. Over the years, he has built an impressive portfolio across television dramas, showcasing both charm and versatility. His notable works include:
- My Secret Romance
- 100 Days My Prince
- Beautiful Love, Wonderful Life
- Love in Contract
- My Lovely Journey
Currently, he is captivating audiences on ENA’s drama IDOL I, where he plays idol Do Ra Ik, further proving his ability to embody diverse characters.
Why Fans Are Excited
The Roundup franchise thrives on its villains—each one more ruthless and memorable than the last. With Kim Jae Yeong’s sharp screen presence and proven acting range, fans are eager to see how he will challenge Ma Dong Seok’s iconic detective character. His casting signals a fresh dynamic for the series, promising high-stakes action, gripping tension, and another unforgettable showdown.
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