Few series have managed to shake up the global drama landscape quite like Kingdom. As Netflix’s first original Korean series, Kingdom boldly blends the political intrigue of a historical sageuk with the relentless terror of a zombie apocalypse, delivering a cinematic experience that is both visually stunning and thematically rich.
A Genre-Defying Premise
Set during the early 17th century, just after the Imjin War, Kingdom thrusts viewers into a fictionalized Joseon-era Korea teetering on the brink of collapse. The story centers on Crown Prince Lee Chang (Ju Ji-hoon), who, while investigating the mysterious illness afflicting his father, the king, becomes entangled in a deadly conspiracy orchestrated by the powerful Haewon Cho clan. As political unrest simmers, a horrifying plague—caused by a resurrection plant—sweeps across the land, turning the dead into ravenous, athletic zombies.
Cinematic Excellence and Immersive Worldbuilding
Director Kim Seong-hun and writer Kim Eun-hee craft a world that is as beautiful as it is brutal. The series excels in its atmospheric worldbuilding: from the muddy shantytowns to the bustling, opulent settlements of Dongnae, every location is meticulously designed, immersing viewers in the stark social divides of Joseon society. The use of color and sound is particularly striking—intentional audio exaggerations and vibrant cinematography heighten both the tension and the realism of the setting.
One standout moment is a haunting shot of bodies being dumped in a serene lake, the surface’s rich hues masking the horror lurking beneath. Such visual contrasts are emblematic of the series’ broader themes: beneath the veneer of royal power and tradition, rot and chaos threaten to consume everything.
Performances and Characterization
Ju Ji-hoon delivers a compelling performance as the embattled Crown Prince, while Bae Doona shines as Seo-bi, the resourceful nurse from Jiyulheon. Although some critics note that certain characters feel underdeveloped and that dialogue sometimes serves more to drive the plot than to deepen relationships, the cast’s overall commitment brings authenticity to the show’s high-stakes drama.
Bae Doona’s portrayal of Seo-bi is particularly noteworthy—her nuanced performance injects both heart and urgency into the narrative, often compensating for the script’s occasional shortcomings in character depth.
Zombie Horror, Reimagined
Kingdom revitalizes the zombie genre by transplanting it into a historical Korean context. The undead are terrifyingly agile and nearly unstoppable, their presence amplified by expert makeup and choreography. The tension is relentless, with zombies emerging from the shadows to unleash chaos in meticulously staged set pieces—most memorably during the fall of Dongnae, where camera angles and editing foster a palpable sense of panic.
Political Intrigue and Social Commentary
Beyond its horror elements, Kingdom is a sharp critique of power and class. The series explores how the ruling elite’s self-preservation exacerbates the suffering of the common people, with the zombie outbreak serving as both literal and metaphorical plague. The Haewon Cho clan’s machinations, the secrecy surrounding the king’s illness, and the desperate measures taken by all factions reflect timeless struggles over legitimacy, succession, and survival.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Stunning cinematography and production design
- Unique blend of historical drama and horror
- Strong performances, especially from Bae Doona and Ju Ji-hoon
- Effective worldbuilding and social commentary
Weaknesses:
- Some characters lack depth and development
- Occasional reliance on exposition-heavy dialogue
Final Thoughts
Kingdom is a masterclass in genre fusion, breathing new life into both the period drama and zombie horror. Its six-episode seasons are tightly paced, brimming with suspense, and visually arresting. While the show’s characterization could be deeper, its immersive world, political intrigue, and relentless tension make it a must-watch for fans of Korean drama, horror, and historical fiction alike.
If you’re searching for a series that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling, Kingdom stands as a shining—and chilling—example of what Korean television does best. Don’t miss it.
