Doctor and writer Lee Nak-jun expressed his astonishment at the global phenomenon of Netflix's K-series “Severe Trauma Center,” stating, “I’m amazed by the drama’s popularity that surpasses the original.”
In an interview with Maeil Business Star Today on the 10th, Lee Nak-jun humbly remarked about the work's immense popularity, saying, “The original work wasn’t something that stirred the web novel world, but it’s surprising that the drama based on it has received so much love.”
He added, “It feels like a dream. I’m really happy and joyful,” and laughed, saying, “I think it’s all thanks to the director, the drama writers, the actors, and the staff.”
“Severe Trauma Center” is Netflix's first original series of the year, based on the reality fantasy web novel of the same name, “Severe Trauma Center: Golden Hour,” written by Lee Nak-jun. While the original also received great love, the drama has achieved mega-hit status, receiving even greater love both domestically and internationally.
The drama depicts the thrilling story of genius surgeon Baek Kang-hyuk (played by Joo Ji-hoon) who is assigned to revive a virtually non-existent severe trauma team. Released worldwide on the 24th of last month, it topped the global TV show (non-English) category within 10 days and ranked first in 17 countries. It continues to achieve global success, even making it to the top 10 lists in 63 countries, breaking the consecutive first-place streak of “Squid Game” Season 2.
When asked about the “most memorable viewer response,” the writer mentioned, “There was a comment saying, ‘I intended to watch just the first episode at night but ended up staying up all night, you owe me.’” He added, “I think that’s the most touching and meaningful praise for me. That’s why it’s the most memorable and still stays in my heart. I’m grateful and overwhelmed.”
He also expressed gratitude towards the lead actor Joo Ji-hoon, who perfectly embodied the charismatic yet humorously unique character of Baek Kang-hyuk, becoming a key contributor to the phenomenon. The solid performances of rising star Choo Young-woo, Ha Young, Jung Jae-gwang, Yoon Kyung-ho, Kim Ui-sung, and Kim Won-hae added to the fantastic synergy.
The writer expressed his gratitude to all the actors, saying, “I’m really thankful to all the actors,” and once again credited them. He continued, “Joo Ji-hoon brought my created character to life in a wonderful way. Thanks to him, who portrayed it far better than I imagined, we received such great love. If I have one more wish, I hope Joo Ji-hoon’s Baek Kang-hyuk becomes his life character. I sincerely think he was amazing, and I’m truly grateful.”
When asked about a “Season 2,” he shyly smiled and said, “Nothing has been decided yet.” He added, “If it happens, I would be very happy,” wrapping up with a pleasant remark.
Lee Nak-jun operates a YouTube channel called “Doctor Friends” with psychiatrist Oh Jin-seung and internal medicine specialist Woo Chang-yoon, discussing medical knowledge. He is active on Naver Web Novel under the pen name “Han San-iga,” and rose to stardom with the success of “Severe Trauma Center: Golden Hour.” He is also a fixed MC on KBS 2TV’s “Celebrity Soldier’s Secret.”
