'The Roundup 5' begins filming, Ma Dong-seok returns as team leader

The highly successful South Korean action franchise "The Roundup" (Beom-Joe-Do) has officially kicked off production for its fifth installment, with filming commencing on May 24. The upcoming movie is slated for release next year, continuing the series' tradition of delivering high-octane action.

In "The Roundup 5," Ma Dong-seok returns as the formidable Captain Ma Seok-do, who has now been promoted to team leader. He will confront a new antagonist, Lee Kang-tae, portrayed by actor Kim Jae-young. The production company, ABO Entertainment, confirmed the start of principal photography.

The franchise, which began in 2017, has seen consistent success, with sequels released annually in May from 2022 to 2024, each achieving over ten million viewers at the box office. Ma Dong-seok is not only starring in the film but also participating in the scriptwriting and production. The directorial reins are once again in the hands of Heo Myung-haeng, a former stunt director who helmed the fourth installment.

Joining the cast are several other actors: Seo Hyun-woo as Detective Go Young-min, who will partner with Ma Seok-do; Lee Hak-joo as Han Sang-gu, an accomplice to Lee Kang-tae; Baek Hyun-jin as Police Chief Kim Min-cheol; and Kim Min-ho as "Buldak." The film promises to continue the series' blend of intense fight choreography and dark humor that has captivated audiences.