'Squid Game' director Hwang Dong-hyuk returns to big screen with Lee Byung-hun, Oh Jung-se

Hwang Dong-hyuk, the director who wrote and helmed the Netflix series "Squid Game," is returning to the big screen for the first time in a decade.

First Man Studio announced Thursday that Hwang will begin work on the film "K.O. Club," with a target of starting principal photography next year. First Man Studio was founded by Hwang and Kim Ji-yeon, a producer on the "Squid Game" series.

Short for "Killing Oldmen Club," "K.O. Club" is set in the near future where wealth can buy even youth. The film centers on the conflict between a small group of elderly elites who hold power and fortune and refuse to step aside, and a younger generation left with no opportunities.

Hwang proved both his artistic vision and popular appeal with "Silenced" (2011), "Miss Granny" (2014) and "The Fortress" (2017), and now returns to film after a long absence. His signature blend of original world-building, sharp social commentary and gripping storytelling has already generated considerable anticipation.

The cast lineup is equally strong.

Lee Byung-hun will reteam with Hwang following their collaboration on the "Squid Game" series, joined by Oh Jung-se, who has recently made his mark in the film "Wild Thing" and the drama series "We Are All Trying Here."

Park Hae-soo, who delivered a gripping performance in the drama series "The Scarecrow," also returns to work with Hwang after "Squid Game" Season 1. Jo Yeo-jeong and Kim So-jin, both known for their ability to inhabit distinctive characters across projects, round out the ensemble, promising strong on-screen chemistry.