The highly anticipated Korean drama Newtopia is set to redefine the zombie apocalypse genre in 2025. With its intriguing plot, stellar cast, and visually stunning teasers, this drama is bound to be your next obsession. Curious about what Newtopia has to offer? Let me give you all the details!
Newtopia Information
| Category | Newtopia |
|---|---|
| Native title | 뉴토피아 |
| Country | South Korea |
| Genre | Zombie Apocalypse, Fantasy, Romance, |
| Director by | Yoon Seong-hyeon of The movie “The Watchman” |
| Story by | Han Jinwon of the movie ‘Parasite’ Ji Hojin of ‘A Shop for Killers’ |
| Starring Cast | PARK JEONG MIN and JISOO |
| Number of Episodes | 8 |
| Release dates | February 7, 2025 to March 21, 2025 |
| Streaming by | prime video |
Newtopia Cast
Park Jeongmin as Lee Jae Yoon
He enlists in the army at the relatively late age of 26 after initially seeking alternative service in the defense industry. Plagued by anxiety about his future, he becomes overly attached to his girlfriend, which ultimately leads to their breakup. Soon after, he finds himself in a world overrun by zombies. Though weak and insecure at first, he gradually steps up as a leader of his squad while fighting to survive against the undead.
As one of Korea’s most versatile actors, Park Jeong-min has earned a reputation for his ability to deeply connect with his characters. From emotional indie films to blockbuster hits, he never fails to deliver captivating performances.
Park Jeongmin 박정민
◾Date of Birth: 03/24/1987
◾Hometown: Chungju, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Bleak Night
◾Notable Works: Bleak Night, Start-Up, Time to Hunt, Deliver Us from Evil, Miracle: Letters to the President, Uprising
Jisu as Kang Young-joo
A “rubber shoe” (고무신) who is new to adult life, she struggles with her boyfriend, Jaeyoon, who seems unable to understand her feelings. After their breakup, she sets out to meet him, only to witness the chaos of a sudden zombie outbreak. As she navigates this new reality, she begins to transform into a strong and determined survivor in the fight for survival.
Known worldwide as a member of BLACKPINK, Jisoo has also shown her acting chops in the acclaimed drama Snowdrop. With her undeniable charm and emotional depth, she’s poised to take her acting career to the next level with Newtopia.
Jisu 지수 (Real name: Kim Jisoo)
◾Date of Birth: January 3, 1995
◾Hometown: Gunpo, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Square One (as a member of BLACKPINK)
◾Notable Works: Square One, Square Two, Kill This Love, The Album, Snowdrop
◾https://instagram.com/sooyaaa__
Im Sungjae as Ra inho
A private and Jaeyoon’s junior, he enlisted in the military at an older age after marrying and welcoming a baby into his family. Known for his resourcefulness, he devises clever strategies and survival techniques to tackle the zombie crisis. By contributing innovative ideas and applying his diverse knowledge, he plays a key role in significantly extending the survival time of his squad members.
Im Sungjae 임성재
◾Date of Birth: January 18, 1987
◾Hometown: Gwangju, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Sunset in My Hometown (2018)
◾Notable Works: Sunset in My Hometown, Be Melodramatic, The Good Detective, D.P. Season 2, Extraordinary Attorney Woo
Kim Jun-han as Aaron Park
Aaron Pak struggles to protect the hotel, which has been overrun by zombies. He is expected to bring fresh synergy as he faces off against the zombie horde alongside Jaeyoon and Lineho.
Kim Joon-han, known for his compelling performances in the films Cross and Revolver, as well as the Coupang Play series Anna and the drama Good Partner, takes on this role.
Kim Jun-han 김준한
◾Date of Birth: March 29, 1983
◾Hometown: Masan, Changwon, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Kim Jun-han began his entertainment career as the drummer of the modern rock band Izi, which debuted in 2005
◾Notable Works: Herstory, Be Melodramatic, Hospital Playlist, Anna, Good Partner
◾https://www.instagram.com/junhan__kim/
Newtopia Plot
Against the backdrop of high-rise air defense units in Seoul, soldiers Jaeyoon and
His girlfriend Youngjoo, who had just been informed of the breakup
A drama that depicts the process of running toward each other while struggling with a group of zombies
Newtopia Point to watch
What Does “Rubber Shoe” (고무신) Mean in Korea?
In South Korea, the term 고무신 (gomusin), which translates to “rubber shoe,” carries a cultural significance tied to the country’s military conscription system. South Korean men are required to complete mandatory military service, which typically lasts between 18 and 21 months. During this time, their romantic partners, girlfriends, or wives who remain at home waiting for their return are often referred to as 고무신.
This nickname stems from a playful yet bittersweet idiom: “wearing rubber shoes backward” (고무신을 거꾸로 신다). It describes a situation where a woman cheats on her boyfriend or husband while he is away in the military. The imagery of wearing shoes backward symbolizes betrayal or a reversal of loyalty.
The term became widely recognized as a cultural phenomenon because military service often creates long periods of physical and emotional distance between couples. Supporting a loved one through their military service is considered a sign of loyalty and patience, which is why being a 고무신 is seen as both a responsibility and a challenge.
The original novel “Influenza”
Influenza is a novel by Korean author Han Sang-woon, first published in 2012.
The story is set atop a luxury hotel in the heart of Seoul’s Gangnam district, where a 21-year-old soldier named Je-hoon is serving his military duty alongside 11 comrades.
Their assignment involves manning an anti-aircraft artillery position established to protect the airspace over the capital. Despite the seemingly privileged setting, their military life is far from easy. Je-hoon grapples with personal turmoil after receiving a breakup letter from his girlfriend, leading him to contemplate desertion. Complicating matters, a global outbreak of a hemorrhagic respiratory virus known as ‘Rahib’ has resulted in the suspension of all military leaves and furloughs.
As the virus spreads, a hastily developed vaccine leads to unforeseen side effects, causing recipients to exhibit zombie-like symptoms. The city rapidly descends into chaos, transforming into a blood-soaked nightmare. Amid this apocalyptic scenario, Je-hoon is determined to protect his loved ones. His unwavering resolve becomes a beacon of hope as he confronts the challenges of a world spiraling toward disaster.
Han Sang-woon is recognized for his hard-boiled writing style, and Influenza stands out as a unique blend of action, romance, and zombie horror within Korean literature. The novel delves into themes of survival, loyalty, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unprecedented calamity.
Influenza has garnered attention for its imaginative premise and tightly woven narrative, offering readers a gripping and thought-provoking experience.
Why “Newtopia” Could Be the Next Big Zombie Hit
Newtopia is shaping up to be a groundbreaking addition to the zombie genre, with its stellar production team and innovative approach. With seasoned creators like director Yoon Sung-hyun (Time to Hunt) and writers Han Jin-won (Parasite) and Ji Ho-jin at the helm, it’s clear that this drama is set to deliver a fresh take on the classic zombie narrative.
Korea has already established itself as a powerhouse in creature and zombie-related storytelling. From the global success of Train to Busan to the critically acclaimed dramas Kingdom and Happiness, Korean creators have proven their ability to elevate the genre with compelling plots, rich characters, and jaw-dropping visuals.
Newtopia looks ready to continue this tradition, but with its own unique twist. The blend of survival horror, social commentary, and emotional depth promises to captivate both domestic and international audiences.
Must-Watch Korean Zombie and Creature-Themed Works
Train to Busan (부산행)
Release Year: 2016
Director: Yeon Sang-ho
Cast: Gong Yoo, Ma Dong-seok, Jung Yu-mi, Kim Su-an, Choi Woo-shik
Set almost entirely aboard a high-speed train from Seoul to Busan, this groundbreaking zombie film follows a father (Gong Yoo) and his young daughter (Kim Su-an) as they try to survive a sudden zombie outbreak. Trapped with other passengers, they face relentless attacks and must navigate the complex dynamics of fear, selfishness, and sacrifice among the survivors. Train to Busan is widely praised for its high tension, emotional depth, and stunning action sequences, making it a must-watch for both horror and drama fans.
Kingdom (킹덤)
Release Year: 2019 (Season 1)
Director: Kim Seong-hun
Cast: Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doona, Ryu Seung-ryong, Kim Sung-kyu
Blending historical drama with zombie horror, Kingdom is set in Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, where a mysterious plague begins turning the dead into flesh-eating monsters. The story follows Crown Prince Lee Chang (Ju Ji-hoon) as he uncovers a conspiracy tied to the outbreak and fights to save his kingdom from the chaos. With breathtaking cinematography and a gripping storyline, Kingdom is often regarded as one of the most innovative zombie series ever created.
Sweet Home (스위트홈)
Release Year: 2020
Director: Lee Eung-bok
Cast: Song Kang, Lee Jin-wook, Lee Si-young, Go Min-si
Based on the hit webtoon of the same name, Sweet Home is set in an apartment complex where the residents find themselves trapped as people begin transforming into grotesque monsters driven by their deepest desires. Cha Hyun-soo (Song Kang), a reclusive high school student, reluctantly joins his neighbors in fighting for survival. This series combines intense creature action with psychological horror, exploring the darkness that resides within human beings.
Happiness (해피니스)
Release Year: 2021
Director: Ahn Gil-ho
Cast: Han Hyo-joo, Park Hyung-sik, Jo Woo-jin
In a world recovering from a global pandemic, Happiness explores the outbreak of a new disease that causes people to exhibit zombie-like behavior when infected. The story is set in a high-rise apartment building under quarantine, where tensions rise as survival instincts take over. Detective Jung Yi-hyun (Park Hyung-sik) and his childhood friend Yoon Sae-bom (Han Hyo-joo) work together to uncover the truth behind the outbreak while protecting themselves and their neighbors. Happiness offers a refreshing take on the zombie genre, blending action, suspense, and heartfelt moments.
Newtopia OST
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Newtopia Trailer Video
Newtopia Poster
Study Group kdrama – Cast, Plot and Original Webtoon overview
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