The iconic 1990s Korean drama 'Sandglass' has made a triumphant return, debuting on Netflix on the first day of 2025, reaching audiences worldwide.

This news comes amidst the continued global success of 'Squid Game 2' and holds special significance as 'Sandglass' is one of the most celebrated works of its lead actor, Lee Jung Jae.

When it aired in 1995, 'Sandglass' achieved an average viewership rating of 46%, with its finale reaching an astonishing 64.5% (the fourth-highest in Korean drama history). The drama was so beloved that it sparked a national phenomenon, with workers leaving offices early on broadcast days, empty streets, and restaurants and bars closing earlier than usual.

Directed by Kim Jong Hak and written by Song Ji Na, known for the acclaimed 'Eyes of Dawn,' 'Sandglass' is set against the backdrop of South Korea's turbulent history from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, including the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement. The drama intricately weaves historical events with the tumultuous lives and bittersweet love stories of its three protagonists, earning praise for its balanced portrayal of the nation's pain and hope.

The central characters include Park Tae Soo, a mid-level gangster played by Choi Min Soo; Yoon Hye Rin, a student activist portrayed by Go Hyun Jung; and Kang Woo Suk, a prosecutor brought to life by Park Sang Won. Yoon Hye Rin, the daughter of a casino mogul, becomes a powerful symbol of the struggles and aspirations of youth during that era. Lee Jung Jae, a then-rookie actor, captivated viewers as Baek Jae Hee, Hye Rin’s loyal bodyguard, showcasing impressive kendo skills and unwavering devotion as he repeatedly rescues her from peril.

Lee Jung Jae has reminisced about the grueling schedule during 'Sandglass's production, often shooting multiple projects simultaneously. He explained, "I filmed 'Sandglass' during the day, and at night I filmed 'The Young Man.' After in the mornings, I filmed 'Feelings'." Reflecting on his youth, he shared, "At 22, I was so overworked that I felt my body could give out at any moment. When I received my military enlistment notice, I saw it as an opportunity to save myself.” His portrayal of Baek Jae Hee became a turning point in his career, solidifying his status as a promising actor.

'Sandglass' is more than just a drama as it became a cultural milestone. It opened new horizons for storytelling in Korean television, blending personal narratives with historical contexts and showcasing the power of drama to become a phenomenon. As the first series to directly address the Gwangju Democratization Movement, it holds significant historical importance.

The drama's legacy is evident in the praise it continues to receive. Actor Kim Hak Cheol commented on a YouTube video of the series, calling it "the greatest work since the dawn of Korea." Other viewers echoed these sentiments, lauding the performances, narrative depth, and timeless quality of the production.

With 'Sandglass' now available on Netflix, it promises to captivate a new generation of viewers and global audiences, much like Lee Jung Jae’s current work in 'Squid Game 2.' As the sequel to the worldwide hit continues to dominate Netflix rankings in 93 countries just five days after its release, Lee Jung Jae’s illustrious career comes full circle, cementing his place as a global star.

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