Buried Hearts is a revenge thriller K-drama packed with intense action, corporate power struggles, and unexpected betrayals. With Park Hyung-sik taking on one of his darkest roles yet, this SBS drama is set to captivate audiences in 2025.
Release Date and Genre
Release Date: March 2, 2025
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Revenge, Action, Corporate Drama
Episodes: 16
Plot Summary: A Battle for Power and Revenge
In the elite corporate world of Daesan Group, Seo Dong-ju (Park Hyung-sik) has always played by the rules. As the loyal yet ambitious secretary to the chairman, he has dedicated his life to climbing the ranks of South Korea’s most powerful conglomerate. But when he stumbles upon a secret slush fund worth 2 trillion won, his world turns upside down.
At first, Dong-ju sees this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he plays his cards right, he could finally step out of the shadows and secure his future. But his decision to take the money triggers a chain of events that places him in the crosshairs of South Korea’s most dangerous political forces.
Unbeknownst to him, this money belonged to Yeom Jang-seon (Huh Joon-ho), a former intelligence director turned law professor, who has built his entire career on manipulating people from behind the scenes. He is ruthless, calculating, and willing to destroy anyone who threatens his empire. When he discovers that his hidden fortune has vanished, he begins a relentless hunt for the thief.
As Dong-ju tries to outmaneuver his powerful enemy, he finds himself drawn into a web of political corruption, murder cover-ups, and corporate warfare. Every move he makes brings him closer to the truth—but also closer to his own destruction.
Along the way, he crosses paths with Yeo Eun-nam (Hong Hwa-yeon), a woman with her own secrets tied to Daesan Group. With danger closing in from all sides, Dong-ju must decide: Will he fight to keep the stolen fortune, or will he risk everything to bring down the corrupt system that controls his life?
Episode 1-3 Synopsis
Episode 1: The Stolen Fortune
Seo Dong-Joo uncovers an untraceable slush fund while investigating Daesan Group’s financial records. Unbeknownst to him, Yeom Jang-Sun has already set his sights on eliminating a key figure tied to the funds. A murder triggers chaos, and Dong-Joo realizes he’s entangled in something much bigger than corporate intrigue
Episode 2: A Dangerous Game
As suspicions mount, Dong-Joo conceals his discovery while pretending to remain loyal to Daesan Group. Meanwhile, Yeom Jang-Sun starts hunting for the person responsible for his financial loss. Yeo Eun-Nam, who shares a complicated past with Dong-Joo, becomes a pawn in this battle
Episode 3: Betrayal in the Shadows
A shocking betrayal within Daesan Group forces Dong-Joo to make his first major move. Yeom Jang-Sun orders surveillance on key figures, sensing a growing threat. Meanwhile, Eun-Nam’s involvement deepens as she discovers the truth behind her family’s ties to the missing funds
Cast & Characters
- Park Hyung-sik as Seo Dong-ju–
- A cunning yet conflicted secretary caught in a deadly game of deception.
- Huh Joon-ho as Yeom Jang-seon –
- A feared political mastermind and the real puppet master behind Daesan Group.
- Hong Hwa-yeon as Yeo Eun-nam –
- A woman with hidden ties to the secret fortune and a past that threatens to unravel everything.
- Lee Hae-young as Heo Il-do –
- A high-ranking figure in Daesan Group, whose loyalty is uncertain .
Why You Should Watch Shadows of Deception
- Park Hyung-sik’s Boldest Role Yet – Known for his romantic and heroic characters, he takes a dark turn in this high-stakes thriller.
- A Story of Power and Betrayal – If you enjoyed dramas like Vincenzo and Reborn Rich, this will keep you hooked.
- Political Conspiracies and Twists – Expect unexpected betrayals, shocking reveals, and mind-blowing plot twists.
Where and When to Watch
- Premiere Date: February 21, 2025
- Broadcast Network: SBS (Friday–Saturday, 10:00 PM KST)
- Streaming: Available on Disney+ in selected region
With its intense storyline, suspenseful plot twists, and top-tier performances, Shadows of Deception is shaping up to be one of 2025’s must-watch K-dramas. Will Seo Dong-ju outsmart his enemies, or will his greed lead to his downfall? Watch to find out!
