Twelve is an upcoming 2025 fantasy-action K-drama based on the 12 animals of the East Asian zodiac. Directed by Kang Dae Gyu, the series stars Ma Dong Seok, Park Hyung Sik, Seo In Guk, and Lee Joo Bin.
It is one of the few K-dramas to reinterpret East Asian zodiac mythology through the superhero genre. Each character’s power, personality, and role reflect their symbolic animal.
This fantasy action drama gears up to premiere in late August and will release globally via Disney+. As the release date approaches, here is everything you need to know about Twelve.
Twelve Release Date
Twelve is set to premiere on August 23, 2025 on KBS2, airing every Friday and Saturday at 21:20 KST. The drama will also be available for global audiences through Disney+. The series consists of eight episodes, two episodes will be released weekly before it concludes on September, 13 2025.
Plot
In ancient times, a group of 12 celestial angels, each embodying one of the East Asian zodiac animals, once sacrificed themselves to seal away demonic forces threatening Korea. After four angels (representing cow, rabbit, sheep, and chicken) died in the process, the remaining eight went into hiding in human form, vowing never to fight again.
However, evil resurrects when a powerful spirit named Ogwi breaks free, forcing the angels to abandon their vow and reunite in a battle to save humanity. Ogwi was once excluded from the original Twelve.
Cast and Characters
Ma Dong Seok as Tae San (Tiger)
Ma Dong Seok is the former leader of the angels who lives in isolation after the deaths of four members. While he is reluctant to fight again, he is forced to lead when Ogwi resurfaces.
Ma has starred in many hit action dramas and movies such as The Roundup Punishment, 38 Task Force, Holy Night: Demon Hunters, and more.
Park Hyung Sik as Ogwi (Crow)
A former spirit who was denied entry into the sacred twelve. Now consumed by bitterness, Ogwi returns with immense power and seeks revenge against those who rejected him. His wings of darkness and red-stone core make him the most dangerous force the angels have ever faced.
Park Hyung Sik returns to TV after the overwhelming success of Buried Hearts, which concluded in April.
Seo In Guk as Won Seung (Monkey)
A clever, sarcastic tactician who constantly challenges Tae San’s leadership. Though his loyalty is often questioned, his strategic mind proves essential in the coming battles.
His notable acting credits include Death’s Game and Doom at Your Service and has an upcoming romantic drama, Boyfriend on Demand, lined up with Jisoo of BLACKPINK.
Lee Joo Bin as Mir (Dragon)
A graceful and mysterious warrior whose full powers remain sealed due to an ancient curse. She holds hidden knowledge and power that can change the outcome of the war.
Lee Joo Bin gave powerful performances in dramas such as The Divorce Insurance, Money Heist: Korea, and Queen of Tears.
Ko Kyu Pil as Don Yi (Snake)
Don Yi is Undercover as a nurse in the human world. He is fast, highly capable, and unpredictable in combat but often underestimated.
Ko Kyu Pil is known for guest and supporting roles in Frankly Speaking, Queen of Tears, The Fiery Priest season 2, and more.
Kang Mi Na as Kang Ji (Dog)
A warm-hearted but aggressive warrior with lightning-fast reflexes. Kang Ji is deeply loyal and acts as the emotional anchor of the group.
Kang Mi Na, former I.O.I member, is known for her appearances in Hotel del Luna, Café Minamdang, Moonshine, and more.
Sung Yoo Bin as Jwi Dol (Rat)
The team’s youngest and most intellectually sharp member. Jwi Dol uses strategic analysis to predict enemy movements and plan counterattacks.
Sung Yoo Bin’s acting credits include The Good Wife, It’s Okay, That’s Love, and more.
Ahn Ji Hye as Mal suk (Horse)
A nimble and deadly fighter, Mal Suk specializes in acrobatic combat. She is known for executing daring stunts with incredible precision.
Ahn Ji Hye has portrayed meaningful characters in dramas like Six Flying Dragons, Was It Love?, Dr. Frost, and more.
Regina Lei as Bang Ul (Snake)
A rookie actress who plays an oriental medicine doctor. Her knowledge of ancient healing arts hints at a deeper celestial identity and possible hidden powers.
Regina Lei, the Taiwanese actress, has played supporting roles in dramas like Port of Lies, Love is Science?, and more.
Sung Dong Il as Ma Rok
The only human chosen by the gods to assist the angels. As their manager and guide in the human world, Ma Rok helps bridge the divide between divine destiny and earthly duties.
Sung Dong Il is well-known for The Tale of Lady Ok, The Art of Negotiation, Curtain Call, and more.
Twelve Trailer
The official teaser for Twelve highlights intense battle sequences, dark mythological imagery, and emotional moments between the angels. Park Hyung Sik transforms into the winged villain Ogwi while Ma Dong Seok returns as Tae San.
Production Team
Twelve is directed by Kang Dae-gyu, known for his work on The Outlaws and The Divine Fury, with a screenplay written by Kim Bong-han. Filming began in October 2024, with several production companies collaborating, including Studio X+U, Contents G, Big Punch Pictures, Nova Film, and The Contents On.
Don’t miss the premiere of Twelve on August 23, 2025, only on KBS2 and Disney+.
