Gyeongseong Beast: Unearthing the Historical Drama

In 2023, Netflix is featuring the first half of Gyeongseong Creature, a powerful new K-drama that weaves together historical action, monsters, the fight for survival, and the Japanese occupation of Korea. Set in 1945 in Gyeongseong, the series follows two individuals from different backgrounds as they navigate life under Japanese rule. Notably, Park Seo-joon takes on the role of Jang Tae-sang, a wealthy man with a gift for uncovering information and the owner of a pawn shop.

He soon encounters Yoon Chae-ok (Han So-hee), a skilled bounty hunter and expert in combat and locating missing individuals. She and her father seek out Gyeongseong's help in finding Chae-ok's missing mother.

However, their quest for answers takes them to Onseong Hospital, which holds much darker and deeper secrets than anyone anticipated. Gyeongseong Creature will captivate fans from start to finish, as this review covers the first six episodes of Part 1.

Chae-ok and Tae-sang face a more gruesome world

Although the K-drama is a brand new original, viewers can anticipate the familiar tropes and storytelling elements that have made K-dramas so beloved. However, make no mistake: Gyeongseong Creature is filled with enough drama and high stakes to captivate even the most seasoned fans from start to finish.

Similar to Song of Bandits, Gyeongseong Creature also uses the Japanese occupation of Korea as a setting for a way of life where individuals must choose to either conform or join a secretive resistance. Amidst the facade of normal daily life, there is a constant undercurrent of fear, with the looming threat of torture for any hint of treason.

However, beneath this facade, the K-drama delves into even darker depths of evil. As Chae-ok seeks her missing mother and Tae-sang is assigned to locate a missing woman, their quests lead them to Onseong Hospital.

Locals of Onseong are well aware of the rumors and the mysterious disappearances that have taken place in the area. The K-drama "Gyeongseong Creature" focuses on these secrets involving Japanese military officials, adding an element of suspense to the storyline. The show effectively combines different genres, including danger within the hospital, the main characters' struggle for survival and rescue, and themes of love and heartbreak. Ultimately, the main objective is to save their loved ones and the victims while coming to terms with heartbreaking truths.

Gyeongseong Creature doesn’t muddle the love story

Similar to a captivating K-drama, the romantic relationship between the main characters is not implausible. The previews also hinted at the deep connection between Chae-ok and Tae-sung. However, rest assured that the K-drama avoids clichés and does not overly focus on the relationship. Instead, it beautifully portrays the much-needed emotional growth between the two characters, as Tae-sung discovers a new purpose in life thanks to Chae-ok.

The young woman, who has dedicated her life to fighting and saving others, and the man who once vowed only to protect himself, unexpectedly find themselves protecting each other. Another compelling aspect of the K-drama is the use of both Japanese and Korean languages.

The well-known Korean actors seamlessly transitioned between the languages, adding authenticity to the timeline setting. As for the central antagonist, the K-drama leaves no doubt about their role.

A government and its scientific faction relentlessly pursuing a new world order – regardless of the consequences. Ultimately, the cast receives nothing but praise. Han and Park bring their years of experience and emotional depth to the screen. A single look can convey a whole scene. Han also deserves applause for continuing to showcase her renowned stuntwork.

Gyeongseong Creature review score: 5/5

The K-drama received a full rating due to its compelling storyline, which expertly navigates the challenges of following a historical backdrop while prioritizing character development and the monster narrative. With a focus on the impact of the Japanese occupation and the desire to save humanity, Gyeongseong Creature provides fans with a riveting experience. The series will be available for streaming on Netflix starting December 22nd. For more K-drama news and Dexerto’s Sweet Home review, visit our hub.

Editor's P/S

As a hard fan of K-dramas, I am thrilled about the release of Gyeongseong Creature on Netflix. The show's unique blend of historical action, monsters, and survival in the midst of the Japanese occupation of Korea has me eagerly anticipating each episode. The first six episodes of Part 1 have left me captivated and hungry for more.

The show's setting in 1945 Gyeongseong provides a rich and complex backdrop for the story. The tension and fear of living under Japanese rule are palpable, and the characters' struggles to survive and fight for their freedom are both inspiring and heartbreaking. Park Seo-joon and Han So-hee deliver powerful performances as Jang Tae-sang and Yoon Chae-ok, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their emotional growth throughout the series is beautifully portrayed.