'Trauma Center' Sparks Excitement with Strong Performances and Season 2 Hopes

The Netflix series Trauma Center (중증외상센터) has generated significant buzz since its release on January 24, 2025. The show, consisting of eight episodes, quickly climbed to the top of the Korean Netflix charts, showcasing its popularity and anticipation among viewers.

Trauma Center follows the story of Baek Kang-hyuk (주지훈), a brilliant surgeon who returns from the battlefield to revive a struggling trauma team. The series is based on a popular web novel and webtoon of the same name.

Baek Kang-hyuk, portrayed by actor 주지훈, is inspired by the real-life figure Professor Lee Guk-jong, who has brought attention to the dire state of trauma care in South Korea. Even with his experience from the 2013 medical drama Medical Top Team, 주지훈 took the extra step of watching a documentary about Professor Lee to prepare for his role. In a recent interview, he shared, "I watched a documentary about Professor Lee Guk-jong. I could feel his dedication to saving patients, which helped me immerse myself in the character."

However, Trauma Center is not just a heavy drama focused solely on duty and responsibility. It presents a fantasy hero narrative centered around Baek Kang-hyuk, who possesses extraordinary abilities and is committed to saving lives while confronting the injustices within the medical field.

주지훈 described the show as a work that subtly incorporates social values, stating, "Some works can present social issues in a way that seeps into the audience's consciousness. I believe that can lead to positive outcomes. Just like how people felt liberated by listening to DJ DOC's songs, I hope viewers find something to resonate with in our story."

The chemistry between 주지훈 and rising star 추영우, who plays the role of Yang Jae-won, Baek Kang-hyuk's surgical fellow, adds a delightful dynamic to the series. 추영우 has recently gained attention for his dual roles in the drama Oksibuinjeon (옥씨부인전) and showcases his growth as an actor in Trauma Center, where he learns from his role model, 주지훈.

The series has already sparked interest in a potential second season, as it focuses on the formation and development of the trauma team from the extensive source material. Director Lee Do-yoon expressed uncertainty about the future but mentioned he has prepared for possibilities regarding a sequel.

주지훈 also shared his enthusiasm for working with the director and his co-stars, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. He stated, "I have no reason to decline if the audience wants a Season 2. I believe that working with these talented individuals will be rewarding, despite the challenges."

As viewers look forward to binge-watching during the Lunar New Year holiday, the anticipation for Trauma Center continues to grow.