Newtopia arrives just in time for Valentine’s week, blending romance, humor, and zombie-fueled chaos into a uniquely entertaining K-drama. While typical apocalyptic dramas focus on sheer survival, this series, co-written by Parasite’s Han Jin-won, infuses the genre with wit and emotional depth, offering a light-hearted yet thrilling take on love amid the undead.
Set in a post-apocalyptic Seoul, Newtopia follows Lee Jae-yoon (Park Jeong-min), a soldier stationed in the city’s tallest building, and Kang Young-ju (Jisoo), his long-term girlfriend who has just started a new job. Their relationship is already strained due to Jae-yoon’s demanding military service, and things take a turn for the worse when Young-ju suggests they take a break. However, before they can process their emotions, a sudden epidemic sweeps through the city, turning people into zombies and plunging Seoul into chaos. Separated by the outbreak, Jae-yoon and Young-ju must navigate the apocalyptic landscape while deciding whether their love is worth saving.
What sets Newtopia apart from other zombie dramas is its unconventional approach. Rather than solely relying on action and horror, the show prioritizes humor and the complexities of human relationships. The comedic elements stem from the characters’ natural reactions to the disaster, particularly Jae-yoon and his comrade Ra In-ho (Im Sung-jae), two bumbling soldiers who struggle with their responsibilities even before the outbreak. Their antics bring much-needed levity to the intense setting, making the show more engaging. Meanwhile, Young-ju’s attempts to contribute meaningfully to the crisis add another layer of humor, as her well-intended efforts often lead to unexpected, sometimes hilarious results.
Despite the zombie-filled backdrop, Newtopia remains at its core a love story. However, as of the first two episodes, Jae-yoon and Young-ju have shared minimal screen time together, with most of their relationship being explored through flashbacks. This makes it difficult to root for them as a couple just yet, as their love story is still finding its footing. That said, their relationship dynamics—riddled with misunderstandings, missed calls, and poorly timed gestures—feel authentic and relatable, adding to the emotional weight of their eventual reunion.
The screenplay expertly balances action, romance, and comedy, transitioning smoothly between heartwarming moments and absurd survival situations. Park Jeong-min delivers a standout performance as Jae-yoon, portraying him as both earnest and hilariously clueless. His comedic timing, coupled with his ability to convey emotional depth, makes his character instantly likable. Jisoo, in her first major role since Snowdrop, shows significant growth as an actress. She brings sincerity to Young-ju’s conflicts, making her character’s struggles feel real. The supporting cast also shines, elevating the overall viewing experience with their chemistry and humor.
Unlike traditional zombie dramas that thrive on fear and suspense, Newtopia treats its undead antagonists more as obstacles than primary threats. While there are intense and action-packed moments, the zombies are often used to enhance the comedic tone rather than induce horror. This refreshing approach makes the show appealing to those who enjoy character-driven stories with an element of adventure, rather than pure horror enthusiasts.
With its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and an unconventional take on the zombie genre, Newtopia is shaping up to be a must-watch. The show’s ability to balance humor, romance, and action makes it a perfect pick for viewers looking for something fresh and entertaining. If you’re in the mood for a series that offers more than just zombie thrills—one that delves into human relationships with charm and humor—Newtopia is definitely worth adding to your watchlist.
The review is based on the first two episodes. New episodes premiere on Prime Video every Friday.
