Korean films and dramas often explore unique and unusual story themes. One of the most intriguing is the theme of human experiments aimed at creating a superhuman generation. These stories are not just thrilling but also provoke deep thoughts about ethics and the human condition. Here are seven must-watch Korean films and dramas that delve into the dark and captivating world of human experiments.
1. A Werewolf Boy (2012)
A Werewolf Boy is a heartwarming yet eerie tale written and directed by Jo Sung Hee. Starring popular actors like Song Joong Ki and Park Bo Young, this film narrates the love story between Soon Yi and Chul Soo. Set in the 1960s, Chul Soo is discovered as a wild boy who cannot speak and possesses incredible strength. The movie beautifully blends romance and mystery, making it a timeless piece that questions the boundaries of humanity and science.
2. The Silenced (2015)
Directed by Lee Hae Young, The Silenced features a star-studded cast including Park Bo Young and Park So Dam. This film is set in the 1930s during the Japanese occupation of Korea. It follows Joo Ran, a sickly girl who is sent to a boarding school. As her health mysteriously improves, other students begin to disappear, unveiling the sinister secrets of the school. This chilling narrative is a compelling commentary on the lengths to which people might go in the name of science.
3. The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018)
Written and directed by Park Hoon Jung, The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion stars Kim Da Mi as Ja Yoon, a high school student with superpowers. Raised by adoptive parents, Ja Yoon’s past as a subject of genetic modification experiments is slowly revealed. This action-packed thriller not only provides edge-of-the-seat entertainment but also explores themes of identity and the consequences of playing god with human genetics.
4. Kill It (2019)
Kill It is a gripping drama starring Jang Ki Yong and Nana. Jang Ki Yong plays Kim Soo Hyun, a hitman who was once an orphan subjected to brutal experiments. Disguised as a veterinarian, Kim Soo Hyun’s quest for revenge and redemption forms the crux of this thrilling series. The series raises questions about the ethics of human experimentation and the impact of such experiments on the psyche of individuals.
5. Awaken (2020)
Awaken is a thriller, mystery, and sci-fi drama starring Nam Goong Min, Seolhyun, and Lee Chung Ah. The drama revolves around a murder case linked to a tragic incident from 28 years earlier in White Night Village, where children were used as subjects in inhumane experiments. The storyline is a haunting reminder of the dark side of scientific experimentation and its long-lasting effects.
6. LUCA: The Beginning (2021)
LUCA: The Beginning stars Kim Rae Won and Lee Da Hee. This twelve-episode drama tells the story of Ji Oh, a man with superpowers who has no memory of his identity or past. As mysterious individuals hunt him down, Ji Oh must uncover the secrets of his origins. This drama is a fast-paced, sci-fi thriller that delves into themes of identity, power, and the consequences of playing with human genetics.
7. Seobok (2021)
Seobok, directed by Lee Yong Joo, stars Gong Yoo and Park Bo Gum. The film centers on Seobok, the first human clone with superpowers who holds the secret to eternal life. Gong Yoo plays Ki Hun, tasked with protecting Seobok from those who wish to exploit him. This film is a poignant exploration of immortality, human cloning, and the moral dilemmas that come with scientific advancements.
The seven films and dramas above present unique and interesting stories about human science experiments. From the list above, which ones have you watched or want to watch? Share your thoughts and let us know your favorite!
