The Disney+ original series Low Life — directed by Kang Yoon-sung, based on the work by Yoon Tae-ho, and written by Kang Yoon-sung and Ahn Seung-hwan — is captivating audiences with its bold reinterpretation of the Kakao webtoon The Hooligans (published by Super Comics Studio). Produced by SLL, Playgram, Po Entertainment, Heungbune Park’s family, and Y Works Entertainment, and co-produced by MYM Entertainment, the drama shifts major story beats, introduces original episodes, and deepens character relationships, creating a fresh kind of tension and charm.
Set in 1977, Low Life follows hardworking locals locked in a battle of wit and deception over a treasure-laden shipwreck buried beneath the sea. With just two episodes left before the August 13 finale, here are the major ways the series stands apart from the original webtoon.
1. A First Encounter That Wasn’t in the Original
In The Hooligans, the character Beolgu (Jung Yoon-ho) first appears in Episode 2 during a meeting with Captain Hwang (Hong Gi-jun). The drama changes this by introducing Beolgu much earlier — in front of the Lucky Café — when Oh Hee-dong (Yang Se-jong), acting under orders from Oh Gwan-seok (Ryu Seung-ryong), arrives in Mokpo. This tense exchange, with Beolgu sparring verbally in his signature dialect alongside Seon-ja (Kim Min), leaves a lasting impression and firmly establishes Jung Yoon-ho’s screen presence. This early introduction not only reshapes the plot but also allows the characters to shine from the outset.
2. Professor Kim’s High-Stakes Con
The series gives Professor Kim (Kim Eui-sung) a more prominent role than in the webtoon. An original subplot shows him outsmarting customs officials and swindling the yakuza’s adopted son out of a Japanese sword and gun in a Busan antique shop. This sequence heightens the sense of danger he poses to Oh Gwan-seok, fueling the latter’s sense of crisis. With just two episodes to go, this added narrative thread keeps audiences on edge about Professor Kim’s ultimate endgame.
3. Yang Jeong-suk’s Richer Backstory
In the webtoon, Yang Jeong-suk (Lim Soo-jung) has no depicted past with Heungbaek Biniru, the forerunner of Heungbaek Industries. The drama changes this by showing her history as the company’s accountant, as well as private moments like drinking beer at midnight while reflecting on her relationship with Oh Hee-dong. Her participation in a U.S. military base antique auction with Jin-sajang (Park Bo-kyung) signals an awakening of her ambitions. These additions make her more complex and emotionally resonant, earning Lim Soo-jung praise for bringing depth and intensity to the role — a standout in her career.
4. A Deeper Bond Between Oh Hee-dong and Seon-ja
In The Hooligans, Seon-ja is largely a supporting figure. In the series, however, her connection with Oh Hee-dong evolves into a heartfelt partnership. Instead of casually mentioning Professor Kim’s gun during a walk, the drama stages a more intimate moment: Hee-dong giving her a scarf he bought in Seoul, followed by shared time before broaching the topic. Seon-ja’s decision to take Hee-dong’s clothes to the police station after thinking of him at the café underscores her affection and loyalty. This richer dynamic makes them emotional anchors for each other — a poignant contrast to the greed-driven world around them and a key to director Kang Yoon-sung’s thematic message.
With its final two episodes dropping August 13, Low Life has proven to be more than just an adaptation. By reimagining characters, adding new plotlines, and deepening relationships, it delivers fresh thrills while honoring the spirit of The Hooligans.
