On December 20 (local time), U.S. entertainment outlet Deadline reported that Song Kang-ho would appear in Netflix’s original series Beef Season 2. Song’s agency, Sublime, confirmed the news, stating, “Song Kang-ho will make a special appearance in Beef Season 2.”
Earlier on December 10, multiple U.S. media outlets reported that veteran actress Youn Yuh-jung would also join the cast of Beef Season 2, reuniting with A24, the production company behind her Oscar-winning film Minari. Youn will play a billionaire in the new season.
In a recent interview, Youn revealed her motivation for joining the series: “It feels natural to support works by Korean Americans. Director Lee Sung-jin told me he had a story to tell through me, and I found his perspective, different from Korean directors, intriguing.”
The Legacy of Beef Season 1
Season 1 of Beef, a 10-episode Netflix original, explored the themes of anger and sorrow in modern life through the story of a contractor and a businessman entangled in a road rage incident. Released in April 2023, the series depicted the struggles of second-generation Asian American immigrants, earning praise for its realistic portrayal of Korean culture and diaspora life.
Beef showcased authentic Korean elements, from iconic foods like seolleongtang (ox bone soup) and ramen with eggs and kimchi to cultural nuances like family video calls via KakaoTalk and comments about weight during reunions.
Viewers lauded the series, with reactions such as:
Achievements and Acclaim
Directed, written, and produced by Korean American Lee Sung-jin, Beef Season 1 featured a predominantly Korean cast, including Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. The series swept major awards, winning Best Limited Series and Lead Actor/Actress honors at both the Golden Globes and Primetime Emmy Awards.
At the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, Lee Sung-jin won Outstanding Directing and Writing for a Limited Series, while Steven Yeun and Ali Wong claimed Lead Actor and Actress awards. The series also took home the Best Limited Series award at the Golden Globes.
What to Expect in Season 2
The upcoming eight-episode season shifts its focus to a young couple witnessing a shocking feud between a CEO and his wife. This incident spirals into a game of manipulation and power within the elite world of a country club and its billionaire owner.
Returning for Season 2 as executive producers are Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. Joining Youn Yuh-jung and Song Kang-ho in the cast are Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny, promising an exciting continuation of the Emmy-winning series. Lee Sung-jin remains at the helm, ensuring Beef Season 2 will continue to push creative boundaries.