MBC has released photos from the first script reading of the new fantasy thriller "A Bona Fide Killer" (유부녀 킬러, Married Woman Killer). The lead roles are played by Gong Hyo Jin ("It's Okay, That's Love", "The Master's Sun"), Jung Jun Won ("Resident Playbook", "Body Parts"), Lee Sang Yi ("Bloodhounds", "The Legend of Kitchen Soldier") and Sung Dong Il ("Reply 1997, 1994, 1988", "Gap Dong").

The series is based on a webtoon of the same name that has garnered over 180 million views. The script was written by Kim Eun Hee, who previously worked on "Signal" and "Mount Jiri". For Gong Hyo Jin, this project marks her return to MBC after 15 years since the drama "The Greatest Love" (2011).

The story centres on Yoo Bo Na (Gong Hyo Jin), a 35-year-old sales employee at Durumi Electronics, who appears to be an ordinary working mother balancing career and family. However, beneath this facade lies "Kingfisher" – a legendary sniper-assassin who hunts criminals that have escaped justice. Returning to active duty at a secret organisation after a three-year maternity leave, Bo Na struggles to juggle motherhood, married life and deadly assignments.

Her husband Kwon Tae Sung (Jung Jun Won) is an investigative reporter for a newspaper who dreams of a just world and is unaware of his wife’s double life. He is assigned to uncover the truth about the return of the mysterious "Kingfisher", setting him on a dangerous path that leads straight to his own spouse. Detective Lee Dong Jin (Lee Sang Yi) from the violent crimes unit at the southern police station, driven by a belief in the rule of law, relentlessly pursues the elusive assassin known only by his alias. Assisting Bo Na is her superior Kim Bong Pal (Sung Dong Il), who is also an expert in staging accidents.

According to the production team, the actors instantly immersed themselves in their roles during the script reading, demonstrating flawless chemistry from the very first meeting. Gong Hyo Jin, by all accounts, convincingly portrayed the duality of her character – from a caring housewife to a cold-blooded killer with an icy charisma. The actress said she would do her utmost to make the drama a source of comfort for viewers and help them forget their daily worries. Jung Jun Won promised to give his best to create a quality production and asked for viewers’ support.

Also taking part in the reading were actors Moo Jin Sung, Lee Eun Saem and Choi Woo Sung.

The drama "A Bona Fide Killer" is set to premiere on MBC on July 31, 2026.

Sources 1, 2