Delve into the Undead: A Guide to South Korea’s Best Zombie Thrillers (2025)
South Korean cinema has revitalized the zombie genre, offering a potent blend of heart-stopping action, poignant character studies, and innovative storytelling that sets it apart from its Western counterparts. Forget the mindless hordes; Korean zombie films and series explore the human condition amidst chaos, often weaving in social commentary and historical depth. This curated list spotlights thirteen of the most captivating and critically acclaimed titles to watch in 2025. Prepare for a thrilling ride through the undead apocalypse!
The Classics & Their Cinematic Offspring
Train to Busan (2016) – The Gold Standard
Yeon Sang-ho’s masterpiece, Train to Busan, transcends the typical zombie fare. This gripping tale follows a father and daughter fighting for survival amidst a relentless zombie outbreak confined to a speeding train. The film masterfully balances nail-biting action sequences with emotionally resonant character development, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll. Its universal themes of family and sacrifice resonate deeply, solidifying its position as a genre-defining classic.
Where to Stream: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Peacock. Runtime: 1h 58m. IMDb: 7.6/10
Peninsula (2020) – High-Octane Mayhem
Four years after the devastating events of Train to Busan, Peninsula, also directed by Yeon Sang-ho, throws viewers into a post-apocalyptic wasteland overrun by the undead. This sequel focuses on a group of survivors braving the ravaged Korean peninsula in search of a fortune, facing relentless zombie hordes and perilous human encounters. Expect breathtaking action sequences and visually stunning depictions of a world ravaged by the undead.
Where to Stream: Netflix, Hulu. Runtime: 1h 56m. IMDb: 5.5/10
Beyond the Train: Exploring Diverse Subgenres
The Wailing (2016) – Supernatural Suspense
Na Hong-jin’s The Wailing is a masterclass in slow-burn suspense. This chilling horror-thriller intertwines supernatural elements with a creeping zombie-like plague that grips a small village. A local police officer investigates a series of gruesome murders, uncovering a mystery far more sinister than he could have imagined. The film’s unsettling atmosphere and stunning performances are unforgettable.
Where to Stream: Netflix, Shudder. Runtime: 2h 36m. IMDb: 7.4/10
Doomsday Book (2012) – An Anthology of Terror
This anthology film, helmed by Kim Jee-woon and Yim Pil-sung, offers a unique perspective on the zombie apocalypse. One of its three distinct narratives explores a pandemic sparked by contaminated meat, offering social commentary wrapped in a chilling sci-fi horror package. Its anthology format provides a refreshing and diverse take on the genre.
Where to Stream: Amazon Prime, Viki. Runtime: 1h 53m. IMDb: 5.8/10
Rampant (2018) – Zombies in the Joseon Dynasty
Rampant seamlessly blends historical drama with zombie horror, transporting viewers to the Joseon Dynasty. A prince finds himself battling a plague that transforms people into ferocious undead creatures. This unique setting adds a captivating layer to the familiar zombie formula, delivering a thrilling mix of swordplay, political intrigue, and gruesome undead encounters.
Where to Stream: Netflix, Amazon Prime. Runtime: 2h 1m. IMDb: 6.3/10
The Cursed: Dead Man’s Prey (2021) – Supernatural Investigation
A spin-off from the TV series The Cursed, this film intensifies the supernatural elements. A journalist investigates a series of murders connected to reanimated corpses controlled by dark forces. This thrilling blend of mystery and horror will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Where to Stream: Viki, select regional platforms. Runtime: 1h 50m. IMDb: 6.0/10
The Rise of the Zombie Series: Binge-Worthy Terror
Sweet Home (Netflix Series) – Monstrous Transformations
This visually stunning series, based on a popular webtoon, follows residents of an apartment building battling monstrous creatures born from their deepest desires. Sweet Home delivers intense survival drama and unforgettable monster designs.
Where to Stream: Netflix. Episodes: 10 (Season 1). IMDb: 7.3/10
Kingdom (Netflix Series) – Political Intrigue and Undead Hordes
This global sensation masterfully blends historical drama with zombie horror, set in the Joseon Dynasty. A crown prince unravels a zombie plague that threatens the kingdom, battling not only the undead but also political enemies. The series is celebrated for its unparalleled combination of political intrigue and zombie action.
Where to Stream: Netflix. Episodes: 12 (Seasons 1-2). IMDb: 8.3/10
Dark Hole (Viki, Kocowa Series) – Sci-Fi Horror in the Shadows
A mysterious sinkhole spews black smoke, transforming people into mutants in this gripping sci-fi horror series. A detective and survivors fight for their lives against these terrifying creatures. Its unique premise and fast-paced action make it a hidden gem.
Where to Stream: Viki, Kocowa. Episodes: 12. IMDb: 6.1/10
Happiness (Netflix, Viki Series) – Psychological Survival
Set in a high-rise apartment during a mysterious infectious disease outbreak, Happiness delves into the psychology of survival. This series explores human relationships and societal dynamics within the confines of a locked-down building, offering a unique perspective on the zombie genre.
Where to Stream: Netflix, Viki. Episodes: 12. IMDb: 7.9/10
All of Us Are Dead (Netflix Series) – Teen Angst Meets Zombie Apocalypse
High school students find themselves trapped in a zombie outbreak in this Netflix hit. All of Us Are Dead blends teen drama with gruesome zombie action, creating a global sensation that captures the youthful perspective of survival.
Where to Stream: Netflix. Episodes: 12 (Season 1). IMDb: 7.5/10
The Odd One Out: A Zombie Comedy
The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale – A Hilarious Twist
Lee Min-jae’s The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale offers a lighthearted and comedic take on the zombie genre. A dysfunctional family discovers a zombie and attempts to profit from it. This refreshing blend of humor, heart, and horror makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a less intense, yet still entertaining, zombie experience.
Where to Stream: Shudder, Viki. Runtime: 1h 52m. IMDb: 6.6/10
Where to Find Your Next Zombie Binge
Most of these films and series are readily available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Shudder, Viki, and Kocowa. However, regional availability may vary, so be sure to check your local options. Viewer discretion is advised, as many of these titles contain graphic violence and intense horror elements.
Call to Action: Which South Korean zombie thriller has captivated you the most? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!