"A Most Wanted Man"
The Ink Factory teams up with Korean production company VO Media – founded by veteran producers Park Bo-kyeong and Kim Shin-ho – to develop a new series adaptation of John le Carré’s espionage thriller novel "A Most Wanted Man". The screenplay for the new Korea-set adaptation will be penned by Kim Yun-shin, with the project being led by Producer Kim Shin-ho for VO Media. Additionally, VO Media’s Park Bo-kyeong will oversee development with The Ink Factory’s Executive Producer for Korea, Junyoung Jang.
First published in 2008, "A Most Wanted Man" follows an illegal Muslim immigrant who arrives in Hamburg from Russia with a traumatic past and the key to a fortune held in a private bank. He says his name is Issa. To the idealistic young human rights lawyer Annabel, determined to save him from deportation, he is a worthy cause. To the intelligence services of Britain, Germany and America, however, he is a potential jihadist – and a pawn between them as they seek to make a kill in the war on terror.
Producer Kim Shin-ho and writer Kim Yun-shin commented: “John le Carré’s 'A Most Wanted Man' is not simply about espionage or the war on terror. At its core, the story asks: under the name of the nation, how easily can an individual become a sacrifice? We were drawn to reinterpret this story within the context of modern Korean history – a history marked by war, division, dictatorship, and countless sacrifices made in the name of security. For us, A Most Wanted Man is both a mirror reflecting the wounds of Korean modern history and a story carrying the questions we must hand to the next generation. This is a drama about dignity, power and the fractures between them – a journey in search of an answer to the timeless question: can the dead save the living?”
Simon Cornwell and Stephen Cornwell, Founders and co-CEOs at The Ink Factory, said: “'A Most Wanted Man' is a poignant exploration of trust, power and morality – themes that remain deeply relevant today. As we continue expanding the global legacy of the le Carré canon, it’s a privilege to forge our first partnership with VO Media, who have a very impressive track record in crafting masterfully plotted projects. Together, we look forward to bringing a distinctly Korean perspective to this gripping story and to reimagine le Carré’s intricate world of espionage through a fresh cultural lens for audiences in Korea and far beyond.”
Park Bo-kyeong at VO Media added: “We are honoured to partner with The Ink Factory, whose global expertise and track record with international partners are second to none. This collaboration allows us not only to adapt one of le Carré’s most human and politically sharp works, but also to learn and grow through The Ink Factory’s experience across Europe, the U.S. and beyond.”
Related News
