The Recruit season 2 is almost here, and as the official trailer that Netflix has released suggests, Owen Hendricks’ knack for diving headfirst into chaos is far from over. Noah Centineo reprises his role as the CIA’s ambitious, occasionally hapless lawyer, who now finds himself entangled in a new set of challenges, alliances, and betrayals—this time on the bustling streets of South Korea.

Picking Up Where Season 1 Left Off

Season 2 of the Netflix series begins immediately after the shocking events of season 1, with Owen facing a life-or-death standoff involving Nichka Lashin (Maddie Hasson). Nichka, the volatile daughter of Max Meladze, is set to become a major player in Owen’s story. Talking to Netflix site Tudum, showrunner Alexi Hawley describes her as a far cry from her politically minded mother. “Nichka is much more of a blunt instrument. She is very id, very much about ‘I want what’s mine, and that’s about it.’”

Hawley also notes the interesting dynamic between Owen and Nichka, as the two share a tendency for recklessness. “Nichka is also a bit of a ‘jump in the deep end and see what happens’ person. It’s actually more dangerous for Owen to be up against somebody who is like him because Nichka is not necessarily trying to manipulate him. She’s just trying to win.”

A New Ally or Foe?

Among the new faces joining the cast is Jang Kyun, a South Korean intelligence agent played by BAFTA nominee Teo Yoo. The trailer teases a complicated relationship between Jang Kyun and Owen, with hints of both collaboration and conflict. Yoo’s character is driven by personal stakes, described as someone willing to sacrifice everything for the people he loves.

“It’s a tricky role because it’s not a buddy comedy between Owen and Jang Kyun,” Hawley explains. “Somebody who will do anything for love is dangerous. … But Owen and Jang Kyun have great energy together. There’s a push and a pull, which is just sort of organic to them.”

For Centineo, working alongside Yoo brought a fresh energy to the series. “Rhythm and chemistry are tough phenomenons to have control over, but thankfully, I was very fortunate to have a partner in Teo for Season 2. Teo radiates positive energy and brightens the screen in every frame you watch.”

South Korea Takes Centre Stage

Season 2 expands The Recruit’s international scope, with much of the action unfolding in South Korea. The production spent a month filming on location, capturing the authenticity of Seoul’s streets. “You can’t fake being on the streets in Seoul,” Hawley emphasises. “The city is a character in the show, and it was very important to us that we got it right.”

The new setting isn’t just a visual change but adds emotional weight to Owen’s story. “Korea carries a heavy weight for him but also brings back sweet core memories from his childhood,” Centineo shares. This personal connection, coupled with the high-stakes espionage unfolding around him, creates fertile ground for both tension and introspection.

Balancing Action and Emotion

While season 2 promises adrenaline-fuelled action, it’s also set to explore Owen’s personal and professional struggles. Following the chaos of season 1, Owen’s career and reputation are on the line. “This show lives in propulsion,” says Hawley. “So we immediately throw Owen in the deep end, which is where he’s the most fun. … But a big part of his story is protecting his name and proving he’s great at his job as a CIA lawyer.”

Centineo elaborates on Owen’s headspace, saying, “Owen knows that if he does not walk away with a win this season, his career is going to be over. He might go to prison. Owen’s headspace is complete chaos.”

A Returning and Expanding Cast

Season 2 brings back regulars such Centineo as Hendricks, Hasson as the unpredictable Nichka Lashin, and Curtis-Hall as the steadfast Walter Nyland. Familiar faces such as Aarti Mann, Colton Dunn, and Fivel Stewart also return.

Newcomers include Teo Yoo as Jang Kyun, a South Korean intelligence agent with a dangerous mix of loyalty and personal stakes. James Purefoy joins as Oliver Bonner-Jones, a charming yet morally ambiguous British businessman, while Young-Ah Kim and Shin Do-hyun introduce characters tied to the South Korean espionage scene, deepening the international scope of the story.

When Can You Watch?

All six episodes of The Recruit season 2 drops on Netflix on 30 January 2025.