Watch The Kingdom

The Kingdom is a Korean historical zombie drama that premiered on Netflix in 2021. The series is set during the Joseon period in Korea and centers around the royal family and their fight for survival against a deadly epidemic that turns people into flesh-eating monsters. With its unique blend of historical setting, political intrigue, and action-packed horror, The Kingdom delivers an entertaining and thrilling viewing experience for fans of the genre.

The show follows the story of Prince Lee Chang, played by Ju Ji-hoon, who sets out on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth behind the mysterious illness that is plaguing his kingdom. Along the way, he encounters a diverse group of characters, including a physician, a physician's assistant, a nobleman's daughter, and a loyal servant who help him in his quest. Together, they become embroiled in a power struggle between two factions, each vying for control of the throne.

One of the defining features of The Kingdom is its vivid setting. The show's production design is impeccable, with elaborate sets and costumes that transport viewers back to the Joseon period. From the opulent royal palace to the dusty streets of the countryside, every detail is meticulously crafted to create a fully immersive world that is both beautiful and haunting.

At the heart of the story is the outbreak of a mysterious illness that turns people into zombies. The infected are consumed by a fierce hunger that drives them to attack and eat the flesh of the living. As the epidemic spreads, the government is thrown into chaos, with some officials seeking to contain the outbreak at any cost, while others are more concerned with protecting their own interests.

Against this backdrop, Prince Lee Chang must navigate a treacherous political landscape as he fights to uncover the truth about the epidemic and save his people from certain doom. Along the way, he discovers a conspiracy that threatens to tear apart the very fabric of the kingdom.

The show's ensemble cast delivers standout performances that are both powerful and nuanced. Ju Ji-hoon is excellent as the conflicted prince, torn between duty and his desire to save his people. Bae Doona brings warmth and complexity to her role as the physician who must balance her desire to heal with the need to protect herself and her patients. Meanwhile, Ryu Seung-ryong is magnetic as the ambitious and ruthless minister intent on securing his hold on power.

The Kingdom also boasts some impressive action sequences and visual effects. The zombies are a terrifying and awe-inspiring sight, with their jerking movements and blood-stained faces. The show puts a unique spin on the typical zombie trope by incorporating elements of Korean folklore and mythology into the creatures' design and behavior. Overall, The Kingdom is a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled ride that is sure to satisfy fans of horror, suspense, and historical dramas alike.

In conclusion, The Kingdom is a great piece of Korean traditional political drama with horror added to give it an extraordinary twist. Everything from the story to the set design and cinematography, reveals ample evidence of the attention to detail that went into its creation. Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doona and Ryu Seung-ryong deliver top-notch performances in this epic tale of power, betrayal, and survival. Whether you're a fan of horror, historical fiction or political drama, The Kingdom has something for everyone.

The Kingdom is a series that ran for 2 seasons (14 episodes) between August 13, 2021 and on Netflix