The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call is Netflix’s first original medical K-drama, blending action, suspense, and emotional intensity. The series follows Baek Kang-hyuk, a war-seasoned genius surgeon, as he navigates life-threatening situations while exposing corruption and inefficiencies in the South Korean medical system. Director Lee Do-yoon ensures the show remains gripping, violent, and fast-paced, offering a cinematic experience unusual for small-screen medical dramas.
Adaptation From Web Novel Showcases Stellar Cast and Intense Trauma Medical Challenges
Based on the web novel Trauma Center: Golden Hour by Hansanleega, the series was written by Choi Tae-kang. Starring Ju Ji-hoon and Choo Young-woo, it has attracted attention for its realistic portrayal of trauma medicine and complex character arcs. Ju Ji-hoon, returning to a doctor role after Medical Top Team (2013), described the filming as the most demanding of his career, emphasizing the physical and emotional challenges of performing intense surgical and action sequences.
The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call (Mays Entertainment)The drama features a strong ensemble: Ju Ji-hoon as Baek Kang-hyuk, Choo Young-woo as Yang Jae-won, Ha Young as Cheon Jang-mi, and Kim Eui-sung as Choi Jo-eun, among others. Kang-hyuk, nicknamed “the hand of God,” initially struggles to earn his team’s trust at Hankuk National University Hospital. Through his unmatched surgical skills and experience in conflict zones like Syria, he gradually transforms the trauma unit into one of South Korea’s most efficient teams.
Kang-hyuk Faces Life-Threatening Emergencies Abroad and Advocates Hospital Reforms Back Home
A major plotline involves Kang-hyuk traveling to South Sudan after Captain Lee Hyeon-jong is critically injured during a militia conflict. Despite facing dangerous gunfire and initial obstruction from local forces, Kang-hyuk’s reputation as “Malak” allows him to perform life-saving surgery. This arc highlights the drama’s global stakes and Kang-hyuk’s ability to handle extreme medical emergencies under pressure.
Upon returning to Seoul, Kang-hyuk confronts another life-threatening scenario during a massive fire. While attempting to rescue a trapped patient, he suffers severe injuries in an explosion. Thanks to Yang Jae-won’s surgical intervention, Kang-hyuk survives, reinforcing the show’s themes of mentorship, teamwork, and the personal risks trauma doctors endure.
Kang-hyuk also challenges Hankuk Hospital’s profit-driven policies, advocating for trauma unit helicopters to improve emergency response. Through his efforts and personal appeal to Director Choi Jo-eun, the hospital approves the helicopters and recruits more trauma doctors. The series ends with Kang-hyuk rushing on the newly inaugurated helicopter to save a patient, emphasizing the ongoing mission of trauma care and the relentless dedication of medical heroes.
