Thescreescore – While the global phenomenon of Train to Busan initially signaled South Korea’s rising dominance in the horror genre, it was Netflix’s 2019 prestige series Kingdom that truly cemented the nation’s status as the gold standard for undead storytelling. Moving far beyond the tropes of Western cinema, this 13-episode epic utilizes the frantic, visceral physicality of its monsters to create a sense of dread that is as much about human desperation as it is about the supernatural.
Set against the lush yet treacherous backdrop of the Joseon period, Kingdom—inspired by Kim Eun-hee’s webtoon The Kingdom of the Gods—is a masterclass in genre-blending. The narrative follows a Crown Prince thrust into a dual battle: one against a terrifying, plague-driven undead uprising, and another against the lethal political machinations of a corrupt ruling class. It is a rare specimen of television where the systemic rot of inequality is portrayed as being just as predatory as the monsters themselves.
For the discerning viewer, a single viewing is simply not enough. The series demands a second look to fully grasp the intricate layers of its world-building. From the subtle clues regarding the origin of the plague to the complex motivations of its ensemble cast—led by standout performances from Ju Ji-hoon and Bae Doona—the show is packed with narrative depth that rewards attentive watching. Showrunner Kim Eun-hee’s decision to ground the fantasy in a reimagined 19th-century historical document lends the series a weight and authenticity that elevates it above standard horror fare.
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Despite its massive success and near-perfect critical reception, the franchise currently sits in a state of uncertainty. While the 2021 special Kingdom: Ashin of the North provided a haunting glimpse into the lore, a third season remains elusive due to production complexities. However, the legacy of Kingdom is undeniable; its massive global viewership served as the blueprint for Netflix’s subsequent investment in Korean heavyweights like Squid Game. For those seeking a cinematic experience that marries high-stakes political intrigue with bone-chilling horror, Kingdom remains an essential, must-watch masterpiece.
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