The critically acclaimed SBS crime-thriller 'Through the Darkness,' which earned high praise from genre fans, is finally set to reach a global audience via Netflix. According to Netflix Korea, the series will officially join the platform’s lineup on August 4.
'Through the Darkness' is based on the non-fiction book of the same name written by Kwon Il Yong, Korea’s first criminal profiler and a current adjunct professor at Dongguk University. The drama centers on a group of profilers tracking serial killers, delving deeply into psychological battles rather than relying on traditional crime tropes. Its unique focus and intense storytelling earned it a dedicated following among crime drama enthusiasts.
Originally aired from January 14 to March 12, 2022, the drama is set in the early 2000s during a rise in violent crimes in South Korea. It tells the story of the nation’s first profiler as he confronts the darkness within the human psyche. Featuring top-tier performances from Kim Nam Gil, Jin Sun Kyu, Kim So Jin, and Ryeoun, the drama quickly gained attention for its heavy themes and cinematic quality.
Kim Nam Gil made his long-awaited return to television three years after 'The Fiery Priest,' showcasing a more mature and layered performance. His portrayal of a profiler obsessed with catching criminals and deeply attuned to others’ emotions was met with widespread acclaim. Jin Sun Kyu, Jung Man Sik, and other film veterans further elevated the drama with their immersive performances, making the series feel more like a gripping film than a typical TV show.
Set in 1998, the show’s meticulous set design and direction earned comparisons to the hit drama 'Signal,' with many praising its accurate portrayal of the era. Though the series started off with a slower pace, it quickly picked up momentum as the protagonists began confronting increasingly brutal serial killers. After the six-episode Part 1 concluded, Part 2 returned three weeks later with high-intensity face-offs, further pulling viewers in.
The ratings reflected its growing popularity. According to Nielsen Korea, the first episode achieved a 6.2% viewership rating, which steadily climbed to 7.5% by episode 2, 7.9% in episode 3, and peaked at 8.3% in episode 9. Peak ratings per minute surpassed 10% from episode 2 onward, and the drama also ranked No.1 on the weekly Wavve drama chart.
Despite airing with a 19+ (Rated R) rating due to its themes of violence and mature content, the series maintained a refined and restrained tone. It emphasized psychological depth and the harsh realities of crime investigation over shock value. The narrative offered powerful reflections by including perspectives from victims, their families, law enforcement, and the media.
What set 'Through the Darkness' apart from conventional crime dramas was its decision to strip away romantic and family subplots, focusing solely on the crimes and the mental profiles of the perpetrators. With its tightly written script, detailed direction, and standout acting, the drama received widespread critical praise. Lead actor Kim Nam Gil even took home the SBS Drama Award for his performance.
The show’s success led to overwhelming calls for a second season. Comments on online communities and social media included, “Season 2 is a must,” “The actors playing the criminals were terrifyingly good,” “Best drama of early 2022,” and “I’m binge-watching it again now.” With global Netflix streaming on the horizon, viewers worldwide are echoing the sentiment: “It’s about time this is on Netflix,” and “We need a second season.”
Directed by Park Bo Ram and written by Seol Ina, 'Through the Darkness' was the debut project for both, yet it stood out with its polished execution and emotional depth. While the first season offers a complete arc, the series, based on real cases, leaves room for more stories to be explored. The use of authentic profiling techniques and unsolved real-life cases provides ample potential for a sequel.
With its upcoming release on Netflix, the drama is poised to find new audiences both in Korea and abroad. As a masterclass in the crime genre, anticipation is growing to see what kind of impact it will have on the global streaming stage and whether this momentum will finally lead to the long-awaited Season 2.
SEE ALSO: "Is it too much?" K-netizens give mixed reactions to Kwon Eun Bi's latest 'Waterbomb' performance
SHARE
