A brand-new K-Drama is arriving next month, and it’s unlike anything we’ve seen before. How often do we get a K-Drama where the main character is a serial killer? That’s exactly what makes “Queen Mantis” so chilling and exciting. At the center of the story is the infamous killer known as “The Mantis”, who brutally murdered five men two decades ago and has been locked behind bars ever since. Taking on this bold and dark role is none other than the legendary actress Ko Hyun Jung!
“Queen Mantis“
Casts: Ko Hyun Jung, Jang Dong Yoon, Cho Seong Ha, EL, Kim Bo Ra
Synopsis: The story follows Jung Yi Shin, a notorious serial killer nicknamed “The Mantis.” Twenty years ago, she murdered five men and has remained imprisoned ever since. But when a new serial killer surfaces, mimicking her exact methods, the police have no choice but to turn to her for help. Detective Cha Soo Yeol, who also happens to be her estranged son, must confront the mother he has despised his entire life in order to stop the copycat.
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Creators: Byun Young Joo, Lee Young Jong
Premiere Date: September 5, 2025
Meet The Characters
Ko Hyun Jung as Jung Yi Shin
Ko Hyun Jung leads the drama as Jung Yi Shin, the cold-blooded killer known as “The Mantis.” After committing five gruesome murders, she has spent years in prison and now waits on death row. However, her expertise becomes crucial when a copycat killer emerges. With her sharp mind and terrifying insight into the world of murderers, she joins the police investigation.
Jang Dong Yoon as Cha Soo Yeol
Jang Dong Yoon takes on the role of Cha Soo Yeol, the detective assigned to the copycat case. But this is more than just work for him—it’s personal. Cha Soo Yeol is the estranged son of Jung Yi Shin, and he has hated her for his entire life. Forced to team up with the mother who ruined his childhood, he must face painful emotions while trying to protect others from another tragedy.
Cho Seung Ha as Choi Jung Ho
Cho Seung Ha plays Choi Jung Ho, the head of the Violent Crimes Unit at the Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency. He oversees the investigation and guides his detectives as they deal with one of the most disturbing cases of their careers.
Lee El as Kim Na Hee
Lee El stars as Kim Na Hee, a senior detective working alongside Cha Soo Yeol and Choi Jung Ho. She’s sharp, determined, and unafraid to challenge others as she digs into the dangerous truth behind the murders.
Reasons To Watch “Queen Mantis“
A remake of the French series La Mante, “Queen Mantis” explores the chilling and complex relationship between a serial killer and her son, who also happens to be a detective. The story dives into the dark past behind the five men she brutally murdered 20 years ago, unraveling why she feels no guilt for her crimes. At its core, it raises the question—what kind of twisted mother-and-son story will unfold between a son who despises his mother to the bone and a mother who seems incapable of remorse or love?
This drama is set to deliver an intense acting showdown. Veteran actress Ko Hyun Jung, widely praised for her performances in “Return” and “The Great Queen Seondeok,” takes on the chilling role of a serial killer—smiling as she kills and even appearing euphoric as though reliving the crime itself. Opposite her is Jang Dong Yoon, one of today’s most promising leading men, known for “The Tale of Nokdu” and “Just Dance.” He challenges himself with a role full of emotional conflict, playing a detective who must face his own hatred while working alongside the very mother he despises.
But the biggest question remains—can this detective, with the reluctant help of his mother, track down the new copycat killer before it’s too late? The creators have promised that “Queen Mantis” will be a gripping, high-quality crime thriller that combines the director’s sharp vision, the writer’s detailed storytelling, and the powerhouse performances of its cast. Expect an experience that is as thrilling as it is emotionally intense!
So get ready and mark your calendars—”Queen Mantis” is set to premiere on KOCOWA+ this September with multiple subtitle options for global viewers!
