Among Netflix‘s many underseen gems is the inventive Korean drama D.P., which stands for “Deserter Pursuit.” Based on the 2015 webtoon D.P. Dog Days, the series tackles the topic of South Korean military service through intriguing plot work and a tricky tonal balance that includes everything from slapstick to tragedy.
Now, Netflix has announced a six-episode second season — and dropped an intriguing trailer.
Per Netflix, the first season won myriad accolades, including best TV drama, at the 58th Baeksang Arts Awards. Plus, the New York Times named it one of the best TV shows of 2021, calling the series “a sensitive and forthright examination of how violent, sadistic bullying and rigid hierarchies drive young South Korean men to go to almost any length to escape military time.”
According to Netflix, season 2 will reconnect with the first season’s co-leads: Corporal Han Ho-yeol and Private An Jun-ho. However, both are significantly impacted by the events of season 1, meaning they are barely ready for a new tragedy that befalls their unit. A resulting investigation drives the heart of the story, while the D.P. unit continues tracking down alleged defectors to nail home the procedural element. The synopsis also promises “pursuits that take [the characters] to unexpected settings — including musical theater.”
Remember when we talked about the show’s tricky tonal balance? That’s why we’re not surprised to discover that our two leads may end up on stage. In fact, we’re really looking forward to it.
Netflix also promises that the “tables will turn” in season 2, resulting in “one of the chasers become[ing] one of the chased,” a well-worn conceit that nonetheless typically works like gangsbusters. (Minority Report and Hard Target leap to mind.)
D.P. 2 stars Jung Hae-in and Koo Kyo-hwan and will stream on July 28, so there’s plenty of time to catch up on season 1.