Netflix’s Kingdom, created by screenwriter Km Eun-hee and directed by Kim Seong-hun, is a historical drama that blends political intrigue with horror. Released in 2019, it stars Ju Ji-hoom, Ryu Seung-ryong, and Bae Doona. The show is set in Korea’s Joseon dynasty and follows crown prince Lee Chang as he uncovers a deadly plague that brings the dead back to life. With only 2 seasons and one special episode, the series quickly attracted world wide attention for its unique approach to the zombie genre.
Unlike most zombie shows that focus on modern survival, Kingdom stands out because it is rooted in history. The production design is one of the strongest elements. The costumes, the places, and battle fields are richly detailed, immersing viewers in 16th century Korea. The writing balances fast paced zombie horror with a deeper political story about corruption, famine and inequality. This combination makes the series more than just another monster thriller. It feels like a historical epic with a terrifying twist.
The series’ greatest strength is its originality. The zombies in the Kingdom are not just generic creatures. They have specific rules, such as being more active at night and weekend during daylight, which adds suspense and survival strategy. On the other hand, the pacing can feel slow in parts, especially for viewers who expected constant action. Some episodes spend more time on political debates than on death threats which may not appeal to everyone.
Personally, I found Kingdom gripping because it does something very few zombie shows achieve. The tension of palace politics mixed with the relentless fear of infection kept me invested from beginning to end. The performances, especially Ju Ji-hoon as the conflicted crown prince, are powerful and believable.
Overall, I highly recommend Kingdom. It is beautifully made, terrifying, and thought provoking. Even if you are not a fan of zombies, the historical setting and character driven story may surprise you. For fans of both period dramas and horrors, it is a must watch.
