Hundreds of years ago monsters roamed Korea and at the top of the tree was Bulgasal an immortal monster that feasted on human blood. The story is about a Bulgasal that has lived for centuries searching for a woman he believes betrayed him and to take vengeance against her. But as they meet and the story unfolds it appears the way he remembers it may not be true and the lives of his reincarnated family once again become entwined. A well acted drama with an interesting storyline and my only criticism would be on occasions the story plods a little.
92 Reviews
Atmospheric, well-acted and beautifully photographed supernatural series
ChungMo16 February 2022
This is possibly one of the best photographed series I've ever seen. All sixteen episodes are gorgeous. However the number of episodes is probably the biggest problem with the series. The show establishes a specific pace by the second episode and never wavers from it. That's fine but by episode 12 it gets obvious that the show makers are starting to stretch it out to fill a 75 minute 16 episode commitment. It gets soapy at times.
The actors are all great and the story, while intentionally confusing at times, is compelling enough to have kept me watching to the end. The show has action but it's not a fast paced show overall so not good for binge watching. If you pace it out, one episode every week, it'll be much more enjoyable.
The actors are all great and the story, while intentionally confusing at times, is compelling enough to have kept me watching to the end. The show has action but it's not a fast paced show overall so not good for binge watching. If you pace it out, one episode every week, it'll be much more enjoyable.
Masterpiece
fffflora3 January 2022
For fans of kdrama, this is one of the very best I've ever seen. Episode 1 kept me hooked from the first minute to the last with barely any room to breathe. There was a little bit of lag in episode 2 but just barely. Other than that it's been literally non stop. Be prepared for the typical fast-paced backstory opening episodes followed by a slight slowdown when the show enters the present, which usually bothers me but it worked well here. The plot is continuous and complex, cinematography is some of the best you will find on Netflix period, maybe anywhere, OST is perfect too. ML's acting could be better, he does that stone faced with mouth hanging open look that sometimes passes for acting in korean drama, but other than that acting is excellent except for some cringy extras and lines in the first few epsiodes. A must-watch drama, feels like those complaining must be watching a different show.
Update after it ended: It lost some of its excitement and the romance fell flat, but it's still a beautifully produced and worth-watching drama.
Update after it ended: It lost some of its excitement and the romance fell flat, but it's still a beautifully produced and worth-watching drama.
Absolutely amazing!!!!
madumakatie8 January 2022
I don't understand the low ratings at all. This series has so much depth, the storyline is amazing, the character developments astounding! It had me hooked from the first episode. I love Kdramas but have been struggling to find one that's outside of the norm, storyline are all the same lately. This one is such a treat! Definitely not your typical kdrama.
Drama of the year!
BulgasalJoon30 December 2021
This is a show I almost ripped my own hair out waiting for. At first glance it was unique, and different from other k-drama's I'd seen throughout the years. And not to mention the fact that it's Joon's first comeback since his military service. And it was really all that. Now I personally love horror, and anything involving monsters. But I'm also very likely to give up on shows I don't find interesting. But not this. This is my first detailed review on this app and there's a reason for it.
The first thing I noticed when I started the show was the visuals. The beautiful landscapes, to the horrendous creatures. The special effects are amazing, and so is the makeup they did for the monsters. And one thing about the visuals I spesifically noticed is that the wheater had nothing to do with the scene. There would be sunny sad scenes, rainy happy scenes. Small details like this have a huge effect on how much I'll enjoy the show. It almost felt realistic?
Secondly this is controversial but I like the slow pace it's going at. It doesn't bother me, I love the detailed backstories that makes you bond with the characters. It made me bond with them so much that I even cried a little in the first episode. The show really went all out on making you feel for the characters, understand their pain and truly just feel like you're there standing among them. And the acting is phenomonal, knowing how much they went through filming that, I'm impressed in many ways.
And there are so many things more I'd love to go into detail with. But I think anyone who's looking for something new and unseen this is where you should go. If you enjoyed Arthdal Chronicles, Kingdom or maybe even Goblin: this is your sign. Trust me.
The first thing I noticed when I started the show was the visuals. The beautiful landscapes, to the horrendous creatures. The special effects are amazing, and so is the makeup they did for the monsters. And one thing about the visuals I spesifically noticed is that the wheater had nothing to do with the scene. There would be sunny sad scenes, rainy happy scenes. Small details like this have a huge effect on how much I'll enjoy the show. It almost felt realistic?
Secondly this is controversial but I like the slow pace it's going at. It doesn't bother me, I love the detailed backstories that makes you bond with the characters. It made me bond with them so much that I even cried a little in the first episode. The show really went all out on making you feel for the characters, understand their pain and truly just feel like you're there standing among them. And the acting is phenomonal, knowing how much they went through filming that, I'm impressed in many ways.
And there are so many things more I'd love to go into detail with. But I think anyone who's looking for something new and unseen this is where you should go. If you enjoyed Arthdal Chronicles, Kingdom or maybe even Goblin: this is your sign. Trust me.
It sure dragged
pjkblue-359267 February 2022
This could have been better in 10 episodes, but hey...the actors and crew need to get paid, right?
Usually, I have found that Korean writers screw up happy endings, meaning everything in a series is going okay, then for some reason the writers hit the wall with the final 2-3 episodes.
This time, the episodes were uselessly repetitious but the last episode was better than the sum. A tearjerker in the last 15 or so minutes.
Usually, I have found that Korean writers screw up happy endings, meaning everything in a series is going okay, then for some reason the writers hit the wall with the final 2-3 episodes.
This time, the episodes were uselessly repetitious but the last episode was better than the sum. A tearjerker in the last 15 or so minutes.
An intriguing horror thriller
ishanidas-3070020 December 2021
The start of the show is quite promising and intriguing. It creates a very spin chilling ambience and thus, keeps triggering your senses. The portrayal of the characters is also well executed. Moreover, the slow pace of the show doesn't seem off to me, because I truly value movies and shows whichinvolves in steadily developing the plot and environment. It works as a benefit than other contents which are only focused towards grabbing the attention of the audience. Bulgasal definitely does that job well. It's different, thus it might not be like the regular shows and not for all viewers. However, I truly enjoyed this unique approach. Can't wait for the next episodes to roll.
Update: I've just completed watching it and I'm spellbound. I don't know how I shall express my emotions, they are so overwhelming right now. I wish it just would not end. I want to watch this show forever, the characters forever. I love all of them so much. I won't give any spoilers about the ending and stuff. However, I adore this show. PLEASE WATCH!!!
Update: I've just completed watching it and I'm spellbound. I don't know how I shall express my emotions, they are so overwhelming right now. I wish it just would not end. I want to watch this show forever, the characters forever. I love all of them so much. I won't give any spoilers about the ending and stuff. However, I adore this show. PLEASE WATCH!!!
Enjoyable Window Into Korean Mythos
lumiens24 January 2022
I won't lie to you, there are some pretty stupid plot holes and translations that don't make any sense. Also, it's difficult to put up with a certain character after a while. However, the series has plenty of scenes that will pull at your heart. I have a lovely family and if something happened to them, I'd be lost too.
So, I put up with the dross in order to find the gems. The gems are worth it. Not quite as good as the Korean police drama, "The Good Detective" or some of the others. It is still very much enjoyable.
The ending was "Clue"-like and its execution was passable. I'm glad I finished it. I hope that there isn't a season 2.
So, I put up with the dross in order to find the gems. The gems are worth it. Not quite as good as the Korean police drama, "The Good Detective" or some of the others. It is still very much enjoyable.
The ending was "Clue"-like and its execution was passable. I'm glad I finished it. I hope that there isn't a season 2.
It is really amazingly awesome
sandrakara9 March 2022
Good Enough
PennyReviews31 March 2022
One cannot argue that Korean Drama "Bulgasal: Immortal Souls" is close to "Goblin" whether it has to do with an immortal, or that he is in need of a woman to save him of his curse. The creation of a small, unexpected family was another common factor that was a plus for this one.
However, that is where the similarities stop. The drama has a plethora of short cases with mythical creatures that add plenty of entertainment to the main plot. The romance was subtle, in addition, with the focus being more on the conclusion of the curse and the answer to the mystery when it came to Bulgasals and how to solve the curse. Therefore, the final episode wasn't unexpected, but the proper ending to the story. The soundtrack and the cinematography were pretty impressive as well.
However, the drama did have many episodes that were slow and boring. It also felt like the story was going in circles, repeating itself. Furthermore, the reincarnation part was awkward at times. The edits with the time passing were a bit over-the-top as well. Finally, the main villain had potential but was toned down by the plot.
As for the performances, they were all great and enjoyable.
So, overall, 6 out of 10.
However, that is where the similarities stop. The drama has a plethora of short cases with mythical creatures that add plenty of entertainment to the main plot. The romance was subtle, in addition, with the focus being more on the conclusion of the curse and the answer to the mystery when it came to Bulgasals and how to solve the curse. Therefore, the final episode wasn't unexpected, but the proper ending to the story. The soundtrack and the cinematography were pretty impressive as well.
However, the drama did have many episodes that were slow and boring. It also felt like the story was going in circles, repeating itself. Furthermore, the reincarnation part was awkward at times. The edits with the time passing were a bit over-the-top as well. Finally, the main villain had potential but was toned down by the plot.
As for the performances, they were all great and enjoyable.
So, overall, 6 out of 10.
Loved it!
njlamia-349387 January 2022
I want people to watch this show more. I've recently been skipping alot of kdramas but this one got my attention. I hope it gets more recognition. The cinematography,cast and their acting was really very good.and it wasn't boring. Recommended.
Extreme slow pace
toddcha12 January 2022
I gave 6 stars because of the acting and the story. Otherwise it would have been 4.
It is extremely slow. Almost every episode repeats the same elements from episode 1 because the basic concept is simple.
Find the women, kill her before anyone else does.
The sound effect often does not match the scenes too.
No intense at all.
I fell asleep several times before finishing a episode.
Definitely not something I can finish at one shot.
It is extremely slow. Almost every episode repeats the same elements from episode 1 because the basic concept is simple.
Find the women, kill her before anyone else does.
The sound effect often does not match the scenes too.
No intense at all.
I fell asleep several times before finishing a episode.
Definitely not something I can finish at one shot.
It's definitely not the actors' faults they didn't have a savvy director...!
rippleleena21 April 2023
Although I watched the whole series in bits and pieces, and here and there, since I had questions needing answers due to their excellent sprinkling of clues throughout the beginning episodes that peaked my interest, it was one of the most boring and repetitive series that I felt compelled to watch through to the end. The most repetitive part was them asking each other over and over and over again, time after time after time, in every episode, how each of them are doing, but not a one of them would ever give an answer . "Avoidance of the Vampire Lovers" should be the name of this series and not "Bulgasal: Immortal Souls".
The acting is plain, dry and monotonou. But, this is the director's fault. At the same time, the plot is one that is mysterious and thrilling, but fails badly in its delivery except for the very first 2 and last 2 of the 16 episodes, because of the actors' unenthusiastic & lackadaisical performances. If there had been different, and moreover, vigorous and passionate acting guided by a dynamic director who actually felt the writer's/writers' intentions, this series would've garnered top ratings.
The acting is plain, dry and monotonou. But, this is the director's fault. At the same time, the plot is one that is mysterious and thrilling, but fails badly in its delivery except for the very first 2 and last 2 of the 16 episodes, because of the actors' unenthusiastic & lackadaisical performances. If there had been different, and moreover, vigorous and passionate acting guided by a dynamic director who actually felt the writer's/writers' intentions, this series would've garnered top ratings.
Awesome series
anntwin2 January 2022
Watched 1st episode and we love it already! Great storyline and cinematography. Koreans do such a good job at depicting love and sadness in their movies and dramas. This is a very promising show and I know it'll only get better.
Great story I loved it
ericroest20 March 2022
Great story and drama the ending was also perfect .
What i also like about the Korean series is that there is no political agenda in it and no bullshit nude and kissing scenes , like in most western shows .
This is something you can also watch with your family with out feeling awkward. It clear people love each other with out al the kissing and sex scenes.
Thanks to al the staf and actors for this lovely show !
What i also like about the Korean series is that there is no political agenda in it and no bullshit nude and kissing scenes , like in most western shows .
This is something you can also watch with your family with out feeling awkward. It clear people love each other with out al the kissing and sex scenes.
Thanks to al the staf and actors for this lovely show !
New screenplay of Korean drama
photoshop-7644329 January 2022
As Korean i don't agree some foreigner to say that 'it is same the goblin'
It is difforent.
The mood is very dark.
It is difficult to say romance.
It is very boring at episode 1 - 2.
But i don't want to say it is bad.
It is quiet interesting and new type of K drama.
The mood is very dark.
It is difficult to say romance.
It is very boring at episode 1 - 2.
But i don't want to say it is bad.
It is quiet interesting and new type of K drama.
Such a amazing drama
kamilhamzahmmkl10 January 2022
From this drama,i can get to know korean myth that being unfold for foreigner. Plus,it is fantasy which is suit my liking. I love this drama very much. As u can,in many kdrama,it doesnt even much pointed the korean monster.
Gettin a bit boring
andreahagen-242822 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I go to chapter 3 and it is getting a bit boring, I had to watch it at 1.30x to be able to go faster but every time I like it less, I had a lot of hope to see a show similar to "kingdom" but it is already set in the twentieth century.
Truly Amazing
suchisdam13 January 2022
Usually first episodes of thrillers can often be slow, taking time to dive into the theme and plot of the show, but Bulgasal does not wait for that. The first episode itself pulls the viewer in with its mesmerizing scenes, melancholic and at the same time terrifying background music and raw and powerful display of emotions by the actors.
Also, the series brings in with different genres like horror, paranormal and even romance. The chemistry of the lead pair is beautiful without being too in the face. Definitely worth the wait for each episode.
Also, the series brings in with different genres like horror, paranormal and even romance. The chemistry of the lead pair is beautiful without being too in the face. Definitely worth the wait for each episode.
Patience pays off
jaylynstoesz6 February 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Amazing story and beautiful cinematography, but very dramatic and VERY slow-moving. The premise is super interesting but you don't really learn what it is until the end, so if you're impatient then just watch the first half of the last episode and then start from the beginning. Otherwise it's definitely worth the wait.
Acting,production,cinematography superb
sarohi-2957717 January 2022
Should have been 8 episodes not 16
dipteros16 August 2022
Pros:
The main story is interesting
The actors are good
Great pictures
Great music and atmosphere
Cons: The story could have been told in 8 episodes (it has 16 very long episodes)
This was my only negative point, but it's a tough one: Because the story was stretched so thin, there are a lot of long weird scenes.
These scenes go on sooo long and because of that, the drama is maximized so much that they are (sorry) funny.
For the sake of the plot, many people act like total idiots. (It has to be the long way).
Everyone just doesn't tell everything for the sake of the mystery and because the story would end too soon.
This was not a waste of time, because I can make really good jokes about how stupid I was to waste my time watching this series.
Cons: The story could have been told in 8 episodes (it has 16 very long episodes)
This was my only negative point, but it's a tough one: Because the story was stretched so thin, there are a lot of long weird scenes.
These scenes go on sooo long and because of that, the drama is maximized so much that they are (sorry) funny.
For the sake of the plot, many people act like total idiots. (It has to be the long way).
Everyone just doesn't tell everything for the sake of the mystery and because the story would end too soon.
This was not a waste of time, because I can make really good jokes about how stupid I was to waste my time watching this series.
Nothing new here
Tin-8641724 January 2022
The story of misunderstood immortals,against their will, suffer through eternity. This story is an overkill to me. Although I like this genre it was insufferable to go through the first episode. So I gave up. What a disappointment. I was hoping for kingdom like drama.
Loved it
varun-kc2220 December 2021
Unique and well-made
u-512945 February 2022
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