[Why you should watch] Through the Darkness (2025)

21 November 18, 2023November 17, 2023

[Why you should watch] Through the Darkness

by Guest Beanie

By: @Poulomi

Netflix had been persistently recommending Through the Darkness to me, but each time I considered it, I was deterred by the title song’s gloominess, the monochromatic visuals, and the unsettling chills they evoked. However, an article about Kim Nam-gil’s experimental acting approach piqued my interest, and I decided to give the show a chance. To my astonishment, I was utterly captivated, riveted by the narrative unfolding from the first episode.

Through the Darkness is a masterclass in the psychological thriller genre, deftly weaving the intricate tapestry of criminal psychology with the nascent field of criminal profiling. At the epicenter of this chilling narrative is Song Ha-young (Kim Nam-gil), the protagonist who’s portrayed with haunting nuance. Ha-young’s character arc is a study in contrasts – his hypersensitivity and intense empathy, which once burdened his childhood, morph into a solitary, almost enigmatic adulthood persona forged as a defense mechanism against the overwhelming emotions of the world.

This aspect of his character is vividly depicted in the first episode, where a six-year-old Ha-young, shy and timid, falls into a lake. As he sinks, he encounters a dead lady in a red dress, staring intensely at him. Intriguingly, Ha-young reaches out to her before being rescued. Later, he is visibly moved by the lady’s fate, showing a depth of emotion that belies his young age.

As an adult, Ha-young becomes a police officer, driven by his deep empathy for victims and a sense of responsibility towards humanity. He is seen as an outlier in the department, known for his serious, soft-spoken demeanor rather than the typical energetic and aggressive policeman archetype. His colleagues often mock his empathetic approach to understanding criminals and his habit of visiting victims’ families, though he rarely communicates with them.

The show also features the character of Kook Young-soo (Jin Sun-kyu), a dedicated and forward-thinking man who’s passionate about his work and compassionate towards humanity. Unlike Ha-young, whose empathy makes him vulnerable, Young-soo is driven by a sense of righteousness and conviction. This contrast leads to Young-soo becoming Ha-young’s mentor, helping him channel his abilities into becoming the nation’s first criminal profiler. Their relationship is beautifully portrayed, and Jin Sun-kyu delivers a compelling performance. Additionally, the other characters add depth to the series, each with their unique traits, contributing to the escalating tension in every episode.

My favorite part of the story was when Ha-young succumbs to evil and loses faith because he witnesses and experiences too much. He decides to quit; his colleagues and mentor do not question because they have seen Ha-young give too much for his cause. But then, one member of the victim’s family expresses acknowledgement of his work because that helped her restore faith in humanity. This becomes Ha-young’s break even point, sense of purpose, and return to his cause.

Overall, Through the Darkness is more than just a foray into the world of crime investigation; it is a profound exploration of the human psyche, expertly portrayed through its compelling characters and intricate storytelling. The series transcends conventional crime dramas, delving deep into its protagonists’ moral complexities and psychological depths. It stands as a testament to the power of empathy and understanding in a world often overshadowed by malevolence.

This show is a must-watch for those who appreciate nuanced character development, gripping narratives, and a thoughtful examination of the darker aspects of humanity. It is a journey that leaves a lasting impact, challenging viewers to look beyond the surface and embrace the light that lingers, even in the darkest of times.

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I love this drama very much as it knows where it is heading too and yes, it based on South Korea's real-life first criminal profiler, Professor Kwon Il-yong and the cases he solved, according to the 2018 non-fiction book of the same title which he co-written with journalist-turned-author Ko Na-mu, which highlights Kwon's field experiences. One more thing, this drama helps Kim Nam Gil wins his second Daesang from SBS last year.

Through the Darkness is one of my all time favourites. I highly recommend that it is also watched with the documentary, The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in South Korea, on Netflix, telling of the rl events that inspired TTD. It's also worth catching Kim Nam-gil's interviews with the profiler Kwon Il-yong on YT.

You MUST. End of discussion)))

Thank you for this, and I absolutely second this recommendation. Through the Darkness is one of the finest pieces of TV I have watched. It does so many things other crime shows don't, and at the same time: it shows how grating this line of work is on the people who perform it; it shows the thin line between trying to understand criminal and dangerous people without excusing their crimes; it shows their crimes without lingering too much on the violence performed on the victims; it doesn't portray the perpetrators as heroes or something like it; it refrains from glorifying violence but doesn't shy away from showing it to show what it does to the victims and their families.
One of the many strengths of this drama are the interview scenes. They are sometimes very hard to bear, but that is because they are written and acted so well. It's not for effect but for showing what's going on. This TV show is miles away from your garden variety police procedural. There is even a whole group of police investigators who are eventually willing to learn and expand their lines of investigation because they are able to see that their evolving makes a difference.
And, finally, yes, I could wax poetic until the cows come home 😉 about Kim Nam-Gil's acting here. It is an ensemble piece, but he shines extra brightly. And the goofy KNG had some time off, you won't see him here.

Great write up! I too was drawn in at the start and thought it was an excellent drama with a tight story and awesome actors. Kim Nam Gil is an excellent actor and brings so much to his roles. It might be the only thriller I would rewatch.

I absolutely loved this show, it's brilliant and remains in my top 10 of kdramas of all time.
Although the subject matter can be quite dark at times, it was such an interesting and absorbing watch.
This was my introduction to Kim Nam Gil who was phenomenal in this role, a mastercraft in acting, such a joy to follow his character's journey.
Everything about this show is of the highest quality so do yourself a favour, as @poulomi has already very eloquently written and watch this show.
As the show is based on a true story I ended up going down all sorts of rabbit holes after watching, it was fascinating.

This really was the unsung hero of last year and it's great to read such a passionate case for watching it.
Such a thoughtful and gripping history of criminal profiling with great performances a well.

It was a great article @poulumi.
This is one of the best dramas last year. Also one of my faves.
Kim Nam Gil was excellent in the role.

I have heard a lot of good things about this show.
I think it’s about time I make time for this! Your last two paragraphs sealed it for me.

Totally agree~ highly recommended drama!