Seoul, South Korea – Get ready for a wild ride as Netflix prepares to launch “Good News,” a compelling South Korean disaster black comedy that blends historical events with biting satire and nail-biting suspense. The film, helmed by acclaimed director Byun Sung-hyun, is set to stream globally on the platform starting October 17, 2025, following its well-received premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 5, 2025, and a subsequent showing at the Busan International Film Festival.
A Hijacked Plane and a Shadowy Mission
The narrative of “Good News” is inspired by the real-life hijacking of a Japanese passenger plane in March 1970 by members of the Red Army Faction. The film plunges viewers into the tense atmosphere of 1970, where a flight bound for Itazuke, Japan, from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, is taken over by armed hijackers demanding to be flown to Pyongyang, North Korea. However, their plan quickly encounters complications, not least of which is the lack of diplomatic arrangements between Japan and North Korea for such an event.
As the crisis escalates, a secret and unconventional mission is initiated by South Korean intelligence. The operation centers around a mysterious, behind-the-scenes operative known only as “Nobody,” brought in to navigate the perilous situation. This shadowy figure, played by veteran actor Sul Kyung-gu, is tasked with advising intelligence and military teams from Japan, South Korea, and the United States as they attempt to bring the hijacked aircraft down safely, employing a series of increasingly audacious and “wild tactics”. The mission also involves Lieutenant Seo Go-myung, portrayed by Hong Kyung, who finds himself unwittingly at the heart of the high-stakes operation.
Genre-Bending Brilliance: Satire Meets Suspense
Director Byun Sung-hyun, known for his ability to masterfully blend genres and explore complex themes, delivers a film that is as darkly humorous as it is tense. “Good News” is not a typical thriller; it’s a genre-mashing, tone-blending experience that uses satire to critique bureaucratic incompetence and the often absurd nature of international cooperation during crises. Critics have lauded the film for its “biting satire about bureaucratic spinelessness” and its “zany satire”. The humor arises not from isolated gags but from the stark contrast between the gravity of the hijacking and the disorganized, self-serving responses of the authorities involved.
“Good News” has been described as a “genre-bending black comedy that takes history and twists it with wit, chaos, and razor-sharp commentary”. The film explores themes of loyalty, politics, survival, and the often-ridiculous machinations of power, all wrapped in a package of “dizzying twists, bursts of mayhem, and teeming ensemble of colourful characters”.
Festival Acclaim and Star Power
Before its global streaming debut, “Good News” made a significant impression on the festival circuit. Its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025 garnered positive attention, with reviewers praising its “bold mix of history and satire”. The film was also presented at the 30th Busan International Film Festival, where it continued to impress audiences and critics alike with its unique directorial vision and strong performances.
The ensemble cast is a major draw, featuring prominent South Korean actors like Sul Kyung-gu, Hong Kyung, and Ryoo Seung-bum. The film also boasts an international cast, including actors like Takayuki Yamada and Kippei Shiina, underscoring the transnational nature of the depicted crisis.
Byun Sung-hyun’s Signature Style
This new movie marks another significant project for director Byun Sung-hyun, who has previously garnered awards and recognition for his work, including “Kingmaker” and “The Merciless”. His filmography demonstrates a consistent ability to deliver sophisticated political narratives and explore complex human relationships, often with a unique stylistic flair. “Good News” continues this trajectory, pushing boundaries with its audacious blend of disaster thriller elements and dark comedic undertones.
Netflix’s Global Slate
“Good News” is one of several compelling international movies and series being added to Netflix’s vast streaming library on October 17, 2025, including “Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas,” “She Walks in Darkness,” and “Santosh”. The film’s global release on Netflix highlights the platform’s commitment to bringing diverse and high-quality South Korean entertainment to audiences worldwide.
With its gripping premise, sharp wit, and a unique take on historical events, “Good News” promises to be a must-watch streaming event for fans of thrilling, unconventional cinema. Buckle up for a fiendishly entertaining ride through unfriendly skies when it lands on Netflix on October 17, 2025.
