The Worst of Evil is a positive surprise for viewers who like K-dramas with brutal and merciless environments of gang wars and drug cartels. This drama offers intense characters with dynamic profiles, especially those of the two protagonists. See the complete review of the Korean drama The Worst of Evil below!
Drama Details
Title: The Worst of Evil ( 최악의 악 )
Episodes: 12
Release Date: September 27, 2023
Genres: Action, Thriller, Mystery, Crime
Country: South Korea
Original Network: Disney+, Hulu
Available On: Disney+ and Hulu
Synopsis and Plot Summary
Set in Seoul in the 1990s, the story follows Park Jun-Mo, a police officer assigned to a drug investigation that leads to drug trafficking between South Korea, China, and Japan.
Because the police know little about the origins of the drug, Park Jun-Mo is tasked with infiltrating a criminal organization newly formed by Jung Gi-Cheul, a cruel, charismatic boss.
There he finds something unexpected, Yu Eui-Jeong, his wife who is also a police officer is involved in the investigation and has a special relationship with Jung Gi-Cheul.
The Worst of Evil Ending Explained
The Worst of Evil had an ending that left fans heartbroken. With an unexpected turn of events, the main character has to take part in lies, deception, and love that brings tears to many people’s eyes.
In episode 12, When Jun-mo returns to Union to check on Gi-cheul, Do-hyun dies from his injuries caused by Jong-ryul.
Unbeknownst to him, Jung-bae makes a deal with detective Min-goo to arrest Gi-cheul for narcotics possession.
At that time, Gi-chuel was disappointed because Eui-jeong was present to see him like that. Enraged by what happened, Jun-mo crashes into a police car and flees with Gi-chuel to a hiding location.
On the other hand, Kang-san then demands that Jung-bae be paid for Hae-ryun’s drug products, asking to meet him in person. According to Jun-mo’s request, Hae-ryun is willing to provide information about the Japanese buyer.
Meanwhile, Min-goo finds out that Do-hyun is only pretending to be Jun-mo and tells Hae-ryun the fact. “It’s important to remember that while undercover, Jun-mo’s pseudonym was Seung-ho and no one knew his real name.”
Hae-ryun then asks Jun-mo if he really loves her and if he should stay or leave Korea. He told her the truth. Moved by his honesty, Hae-ryun is not angry and decides to kill Min-goo before running away.
At the end of The Worst of Evil Episode 12, Jun-mo and Gi-cheul return to the port for the drug business. But Jun-mo has planned to arrest everyone involved in Korea, China, and Japan.
While in the car, Jun-mo handcuffs Gi-cheul to the steering wheel and reveals himself, breaking Gi-chuel’s heart. At the same time, the Chinese factory was raided by the police, the Japanese police arrested Oyama, and the Korean police arrested everyone at the port.
Despite handcuffing him to the steering wheel, Jun-mo deliberately leaves the car keys and handcuff key behind so Gi-cheul can escape. The mission is now over and Eui-jeong and Jun-mo move on with their lives, wondering what will happen to their relationship.
But when they arrive home, they are surprised to find Gi-cheul waiting for them. Gi-cheul finds out they are married and betrays him from the start.
He berates Eui-jeong for making him believe they were in love and what she did was considered a sin. Despite knowing the pain she caused, she tells Gi-cheul that she is okay living with the guilt.
Wanting her to feel more pain, Gi-chuel pointed the gun at his own head wanting to die by suicide. But Jun-mo beats him up and shoots him in the chest to save his wife from more pain and trauma.
This is the final scene that shows Jun-mo visiting Gi-cheul’s grave:
See Also: K-Dramas Similar to The Worst of Evil
The Worst of Evil Korean Drama Review
“The Worst of Evil“ managed to penetrate the hearts of crime K-drama lovers with its action noir with deep emotions set in the 1990s. Let’s see my thoughts on this drama!
Critical Analysis: While “The Worst of Evil” is a great series for me and perhaps for you, it may not be suitable for those looking for a light watch.
The relentless darkness and morally ambiguous characters may unsettle you. Additionally, the brevity of the series leaves viewers wanting more, but perhaps this is intentional, leaving room for speculation and discussion.
Emotional Resonance: What really resonates with “The Worst of Evil” is its unapologetic exploration of morality. He does not hesitate to depict the darkness within his character.
When the lines between good and evil become blurred, it encourages viewers to question their own moral compass. The series leaves a lingering feeling of unease, forcing introspection long after the credits roll.
Theme and Tone: ‘The Worst of Evil’ grapples with themes of power, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Like the question “What is the worst of evil?”…
It is a stark look at evil and the corrupting influence of power. The tone is dark, gritty, and unforgiving, complementing the story’s exploration of moral ambiguity.
Acting and Characters: The cast gives great performances overall. Ji Chang-wook’s portrayal of Park Jun-mo is very charming. His transformation from dedicated cop to cunning infiltrator is a testament to his acting prowess.
Wi Ha-joon as Jung Gi-cheol brings a frightening charisma to the leader of a criminal organization, making him both menacing and charismatic.
Meanwhile, Yoo Eui-jung, played by Im Se-mi, adds depth and emotional complexity to this series by appearing between Ji Chang-wook and Wi Ha-joon.
Direction and Cinematography: Han Dong-wook’s direction shines in “The Worst of Evil.” His ability to build tension and maintain tension is extraordinary, and worthy of praise.
The series is visually striking, with a noir aesthetic that enhances the ominous atmosphere. The cinematography features Gangnam’s neon-lit streets and dark underground passages, creating an immersive experience.
Special Effects and Editing: While “The Worst of Evil” doesn’t rely heavily on special effects, when they are used, they are seamlessly integrated. The editing is sharp, allowing the story to flow smoothly across its three episodes. There is no wasted moment, every scene has a purpose.
It’s the perfect accompaniment to the dark and moody production design. From seedy nightclubs to dimly lit alleys, the attention to detail in the set design is incredible. I would like to thank the production team for this wonderful spectacle!
Cast of The Worst of Evil
Main Role
Ji Chang Wook as Park Joon Mo
Wi Ha Joon as Jung Ki Chul
Im Se Mi as Yoo Eui Jung
Support Role
BIBI as Lee Hae Ryeon
Im Sung Jae as Choi Jeong Bae
Choi Baek Sun as Oh Kyung Jin
Cha Rae Hyung as Hong Hee Seong
Lee Jung Hun as Cho Chang Sik
Ji Seung Hyun as Seok Do Hyung
Yoon Gyung Ho as Hwang Min Gu
Lee Han Ju as Jung Byung Woo
Bae Myung Jin as Bae Yong Dae
Park Min I as Han Do
Lee Shin Ki as Seo Jong Ryeol
And More
My Verdict
In a landscape filled with crime dramas, “The Worst of Evil” Season 1 stands out as a gripping and thought-provoking masterpiece. Its exploration of moral decay, stellar performances, and impeccable direction make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Prepare yourself for a profound experience that will challenge your perception of good and evil. I would easily give this K-drama a score of 8.9/10. Thank you!
