Park Ki Woong Joins Kang Ji Hwan in 'Monster - 2016'

Park Ki Woong has announced that he will join Kang Ji Hwan in the upcoming MBC drama "Monster - 2016."

The actor's agency, Haewadal Entertainment, announced the decision on February 1. It will be Park's first leading drama role since playing a Japanese officer in the KBS historical drama "Bridal Mask" with co-star Joo Won and an idol group member in the comedy "Full House Take 2."

Park Ki Woong did have a cameo in "The Good Doctor," also with former co-star Joo Won, and was seen in two films since starting his 2014 tour of military duty, the 2014 "Mad Sad Bad" and the 2015 Kim Ki Duk production "Made in China." But Park's mandatory military duty as a conscripted policeman did keep him away from dramaland.

In "Monster - 2016," Park will play Do Geon Woo, the son of a company CEO and his mistress. His birthright will bring him into direct conflict with the character that Kang Ji Hwan plays. Kang plays Kang Ki Tan, a man who lost his parents when he was little. He wants to take revenge against the wealthy and careless individuals who ruined his life and caused him to suffer.

Kang Ji Hwan's role in the drama was reportedly offered to Joo Won, which would have given the actors a third chance to work together, but Joo ultimately turned it down. Seo Kang Joon also reportedly turned down the role, choosing instead to appear in the Korean remake of "Entourage."

Hwang Jung Eum was previously offered the leading female role in this drama but ultimately declined to focus on her upcoming wedding at the end of February.

Jang Young Chul, who wrote "Empress Ki," "History of the Salaryman," "Giant" and "Incarnation of Money," is writing the screenplay. Joo Sang Woo, who directed "Legendary Witches" and "One Hundred Years Inheritance," is directing 'Monster - 2016."

The 50-episode "Monster," previously titled "Tyrant," will air on Mondays and Tuesdays in April after the end of "Glamorous Temptation."