The actors are all spot on in each character, but the plot is both derivative and repetitive. And the ending feels tacked on. The series is okay, but definitely not the best of KDrama.
130 Reviews
Strong characters, weak script.
AJ_McAninch24 December 2021
Very immersive and fantastically well done drama
kinogems11 November 2021
I found the synopsis very interesting so gave it a go ,was planning to watch it anyway as it's Park Hyung Sik's comeback but wow it's really immersive and had me hooked from the first episode. Would seem pretty cliche to some because of the backdrop and the flesh eating virus but the leading couple's chemistry elevate it for me. Can't wait to see more I hope it has good pacing and more action.
So I just finished the drama and wow...that was quite amazing. The progression felt so natural and although there were some minor plot holes and inconveniences it was overall very cohesive. Undoubtedly one of the best dramas of this year.
So I just finished the drama and wow...that was quite amazing. The progression felt so natural and although there were some minor plot holes and inconveniences it was overall very cohesive. Undoubtedly one of the best dramas of this year.
Blends the story of love and thriller in a well executed drama
pranayjalvi30 December 2021
Happiness, as the name sounds, isn't all about happiness though. This thriller drama sees an apocalyptic world where virus has created a havoc and residents of an apartment are surviving for their life.
Happiness had a decent story with a very good production and overall visuals. The soundtrack though, was the best part in the entire drama. The music tuned to the perfect rhythm along with the key moments in the series.
Not forgetting about the leads who gave a commendable performance and maintained romantic chemistry among themselves. It might not be a part of my Top 5 drama of the year, but it was a very well made show which blended multiple genres/aspects and delivered a convincing result.
My Rating : 7.5/10.
Happiness had a decent story with a very good production and overall visuals. The soundtrack though, was the best part in the entire drama. The music tuned to the perfect rhythm along with the key moments in the series.
Not forgetting about the leads who gave a commendable performance and maintained romantic chemistry among themselves. It might not be a part of my Top 5 drama of the year, but it was a very well made show which blended multiple genres/aspects and delivered a convincing result.
My Rating : 7.5/10.
When the scariest thing in a Zombies series are not the zombies but the people
hanalisss19 December 2021
This series is just brilliant.
Thrilling and exciting and I swear every episode is just so surprising, you won't be able to stop watching it.
The story depicts human nature perfectly and how they struggle and battle to survive a world pandemic whilst the greed of some takes over . With each character you will feel anger, tenderness, love, friendship and sadness too, it has moments for every emotion.
I absolutely love the personality of the female lead and how strong and badass she is, she has great chemistry with the male lead too.
Worth watching it, masterpiece.
Thrilling and exciting and I swear every episode is just so surprising, you won't be able to stop watching it.
The story depicts human nature perfectly and how they struggle and battle to survive a world pandemic whilst the greed of some takes over . With each character you will feel anger, tenderness, love, friendship and sadness too, it has moments for every emotion.
I absolutely love the personality of the female lead and how strong and badass she is, she has great chemistry with the male lead too.
Worth watching it, masterpiece.
I'm loving this series!
teenydutton29 November 2021
I wasn't sure I would like this show, I figured it would just be another zombie series but they have put a new twist to the genre. I love the actors and all the characters. This show has the right amount of humor to it as well. Don't miss out on this great series.
An Extraordinary Apocalypse Drama
ishanidas-3070012 December 2021
This show was so good!!! In fact GREAT!!! It is so much more than just an apocalypse show. It subtly portrays the dark side of humanity and how we humans are so fragile in holding our sanity in difficult times. I believe many people have encountered similar incidents during this time of covid, and I was truly amazed by how the filmmakers have brought that entire thing into life by intensifying the situation. All the characters are really well portrayed and all the actors did justice to their roles. One of the best Dramas this year.
THIS IS A MUST-WATCH!!
THIS IS A MUST-WATCH!!
Absolutely brilliant story - enjoyed every minute of it
phd_travel21 January 2022
This 12 episode series is the first that brilliantly takes elements of the pandemic to create a thriller that feels totally relatable. Because of what everyone has been through this past 2 years many elements of this show don't feel far fetched but instead are gripping and real. One of the best things about the show is it doesn't rely on a lot of gore or shock tactics or a monster a minute kind of thing. Korean Tv and movies are great at doing zombies but here it's a rabies like disease with some zombie traits. The story builds up the different characters well so each encounter is meaningful and then when the excitement and scary moments happen it really counts. Love the selfish "villians" of the show like the doctor, the lawyer, the greedy woman and the president of the residents committee, and the cleaners all told with brilliant black comedy. The ending is feel good and brings together everything in a complete theatrical hilarious and logical way.
The 2 leads are extremely likable. Han Hyo Joo is pretty and feisty. Park Hyung Shik has filled out and looks more mature now so he can do this kind of role. The supporting cast are excellent and they portray the quirks selfishness and greed of their characters in a hilarious and Parasite like way.
Just watch it. The best show to emerge from the Pandemic.
The 2 leads are extremely likable. Han Hyo Joo is pretty and feisty. Park Hyung Shik has filled out and looks more mature now so he can do this kind of role. The supporting cast are excellent and they portray the quirks selfishness and greed of their characters in a hilarious and Parasite like way.
Just watch it. The best show to emerge from the Pandemic.
Good Enough
PennyReviews13 January 2022
Korean Drama "Happiness" is a dystopian drama that feels, nevertheless, close to home. The drama doesn't focus too much on the horror aspect, with the zombie-like disease, that could have been easily overused with loads of gory scenes and bloodbath.
Rather, the drama opted for a more character-centric story, with the focus being maintained on the neighbors and their dynamics when a crisis hits home. The addition of the corporation mystery, along with the family drama, were all a nice touch that added more twists to the main plot.
However, the drama missed making the conclusion clear, or more dramatic. Everything was actually too conveniently solved when everyone was straggling to come to a conclusion all throughout the drama. Also, the drama felt like it was missing something, like the story needed something more to leave a bigger impact.
Nonetheless, the performances were great and aided the entertainment value of the drama a lot. The CGI were also well made.
So, overall, 6.5 out of 10.
Rather, the drama opted for a more character-centric story, with the focus being maintained on the neighbors and their dynamics when a crisis hits home. The addition of the corporation mystery, along with the family drama, were all a nice touch that added more twists to the main plot.
However, the drama missed making the conclusion clear, or more dramatic. Everything was actually too conveniently solved when everyone was straggling to come to a conclusion all throughout the drama. Also, the drama felt like it was missing something, like the story needed something more to leave a bigger impact.
Nonetheless, the performances were great and aided the entertainment value of the drama a lot. The CGI were also well made.
So, overall, 6.5 out of 10.
Han Hyo Joo! one of my fave K-actress!!
aprcue22 November 2021
Happiness is really to see HHJ back on the screen. I have been a fan of her since "Brilliant legacy" where she was paired with Lee Seung-gi. I have watched most of her movies because she is a great actress. Whatever role she played she can gave justice to each role she that's given to her. And now the recent "happiness" which i got attracted to the story line and perhaps the different drama of hers from the past.
I had high hopes.... But overrated
Freezing_Walkers13 April 2022
Love with this kdrama.
aralilly15 November 2021
More into interpersonal relationships during zombie outbreak
witra_as29 January 2022
Dystopian K-drama focused more on interpersonal relationships in an apartment building. Ahn Gil-Ho definitely didn't want to scare audience with derivative shock tactics and zombie antics which probably made some episodes felt stretched with unnecessary moments.
Solid cast did great job in portraying human nature in 'new-normal' situations. Hyung-Sik & Hyo-Joo being power couple who defined "home isn't a place, it's a person" truly won us over. However i felt something was missing in the end with hasty conclusions and unanswered questions.
Solid cast did great job in portraying human nature in 'new-normal' situations. Hyung-Sik & Hyo-Joo being power couple who defined "home isn't a place, it's a person" truly won us over. However i felt something was missing in the end with hasty conclusions and unanswered questions.
More like detective serie than typical zombie theme
aungkokominwebdeveloper14 November 2021
Firstly, if you expected fast paced apocalypse zombie themed serie, this is not for you. This serie is for the one who love investigation with thriller genre. Less violence but more story focus. And combined with casts' acting, Happiness is one of the best Korean serie in 2021.
One of the best 2021 Korean Series.
sherwoodbrooklyn30 November 2021
I instantly got hooked on this series right after watching the first episode ,the plot is really interesting. The story didn't just focus on finding the cure on the new virus but they also gave us a glimpse on some social issues that is currently happening in SK. The main cast gave justice to their characters, they did an amazing job. I also loved the subtle romance between PHS and HHJ, they really made my heart flutter even without much skin ship, they looked so adorable on screen. HHJ is such a beautiful and talented actress, I instantly became a fan and am currently watching her other series and movies. PHS is a charmer and his physique suited him very well ,he looks more manly now. I'm hoping for a season 2!
Intense, Caprivating, and Subtle Love & Deep Devotion
forhyungsik29 November 2021
My first time to watch (with partially covered eyes) zombie and frightening scenes! Actor Park Hyung Sik made this possible!
Every episode is worth waiting for. Every story of every character is interesting. Every scene and dialogue is well thought of, and acted out with intense perfornance from every actor/actress! 🌟 Actor Park Hyung Sik delivers outstanding performance, even in his action parts! Actress Han Hyo Joo projects an aggressive role, yet remains adoringly feminine, and so funny!
PHS as Yi Hyun and HHJ as Sae Bom is a 'match made in heaven,' with the couple delivering pure Happiness and deep devotion for each other!💖 All in all, 'Happiness' is a Must watch and very Highly Recommended!
Happy viewing! Last 2 episodes coming, and binge-watch on episides 1-10! No regrets!🌟
Every episode is worth waiting for. Every story of every character is interesting. Every scene and dialogue is well thought of, and acted out with intense perfornance from every actor/actress! 🌟 Actor Park Hyung Sik delivers outstanding performance, even in his action parts! Actress Han Hyo Joo projects an aggressive role, yet remains adoringly feminine, and so funny!
PHS as Yi Hyun and HHJ as Sae Bom is a 'match made in heaven,' with the couple delivering pure Happiness and deep devotion for each other!💖 All in all, 'Happiness' is a Must watch and very Highly Recommended!
Happy viewing! Last 2 episodes coming, and binge-watch on episides 1-10! No regrets!🌟
Pretty interesting!
romena-574257 November 2021
Happiness, an ironic name for a series that will soon turn out to be bloody. 2 eps down so far, and the plot is quite intruguing with mad disease on the loose. The cast is so good expcially the baseball boy/ badass girl vibe. Let's see how this mini 12 eps drama unfolds.
So much potential, what a pity
artstar-19 January 2022
Great start, premise and strong lead casting.
What failed in this show was excessively emotion manipulation by repeating extreme human selfishness mentality in unnecessary situations , while the selfish mentality disappear and becomes idiocy during critical moments when common sense should prevail.
While entertaining in parts , exhausting to watch when the formula keep repeating throughout the show.
What failed in this show was excessively emotion manipulation by repeating extreme human selfishness mentality in unnecessary situations , while the selfish mentality disappear and becomes idiocy during critical moments when common sense should prevail.
While entertaining in parts , exhausting to watch when the formula keep repeating throughout the show.
Zombie drama with a twist on reflecting human dark sides
yamapgal28 November 2021
If you are looking for full zombie action with run and kill all the time, then this might not suitable for you.
I find it quite interesting because every character has his/her own motive and agenda, and made different decisions when facing the virus infected persons.
It makes you think you would have done the same, if your priority is yourself or some bigger ambition over others...
I find it quite interesting because every character has his/her own motive and agenda, and made different decisions when facing the virus infected persons.
It makes you think you would have done the same, if your priority is yourself or some bigger ambition over others...
Not bad cut spoilt by some clichéd characters
Richard_rear4 December 2021
Overall not bad drama, good leads, good mixture of action drama, bit of comedy, only bad point are some of yhe characters are your tied cliche types and a few if those why did they do that moments where people do something that makes no sense.
A MASTERPIECE 💯
cooperelizabeth-801213 December 2021
I'ved watched too many dramas that i am usually not hooked at the first ep but THIS DRAMA GOT ME HOOKED IN THE FIRST SCENES. This is a gem,the pacing is good the story is amazing and the characters are perfect 😙👌 100000/10.
Mediocre
themadcamel14 April 2022
I love a good Korean thriller; they take risks on scripts that Hollywood has become too self-indulged to make.
So I was excited to watch this, mainly due to the high ratings and reviews.
The acting is excellent, the characters are likable, and the zombies are genuinely scary.
Unfortunately, the plot of almost every episode is driven solely by the Characters making truly nonsensical decisions. Some of the scenes feel like they were written by excited ten year olds. It's sloppy writing at it's best. It's not clever enough to create tension without having people act in ridiculously Impractical ways. And this is where it loses me.
A shame because the lead actors are very likeable.
So I was excited to watch this, mainly due to the high ratings and reviews.
The acting is excellent, the characters are likable, and the zombies are genuinely scary.
Unfortunately, the plot of almost every episode is driven solely by the Characters making truly nonsensical decisions. Some of the scenes feel like they were written by excited ten year olds. It's sloppy writing at it's best. It's not clever enough to create tension without having people act in ridiculously Impractical ways. And this is where it loses me.
A shame because the lead actors are very likeable.
MIND BLOWING, DAEBAKKKK Happiness is damn good!
jasminegjm6 December 2021
OMG this highly-anticipated drama of the year really exceeds beyond my expectations. The first 2 episodes were damn exciting and thrilling and the chemistry between PHS and HHJ is sooo good! PHS is such a magnetic charm after being back in the small screen after so long; it feels like he has come out of the vitamin factory seriously, he looks sooo fine, handsome and charismatic! I love the way he looks in this drama; it totally suits Jung Yi Hyun's character. There is a lot of suspense, thrill, action, fantasy, character development in the story. Refreshing story, a whole new genre at a different level - the story has been close to our hearts having gone through the tough Covid-19 pandemic for over a year; how the government and pharmaceutical companies are dealing with it; how people of various classes face discrimination and life changes in the midst of survival. I can expect this to be the best psychologically thrilling drama that has been released to date. I can't wait to see how the story unfolds! I am so happy to spend my November and December with Happiness. Happiness Fighting!! How I wish they have Season 2 please!!!
Healthy relationship's standard and realistic love - must watch
pauline-4557610 December 2021
Even though the main genre for Happiness is apocalyptic thriller, the romance thrives here. But forget about cheesy lines, typical romantic moves, kdramas love clichés and unbelievable overpathetic confessions. Saebom-Yihyun relationship IS the standard. It is purely healthy relationship without obsession/possesion/manipulation and whatever else. The most important for each of them is well-being and safety of their partner. They care about each other in a subtle way, always having each other's back and solving problems as one.
He is a detective, she serves in special forces
What I love is that Saebom is strong independent brave female character, and Yihyun let her be like that, supporting her actions and not treating her as weak gender. Which means he has great trust in her. But when her life is in danger, he turns into protective mode and saves her at all costs.
It is a big pleasure to watch them respecting each other, fighting together back to back, teasing or having night conversations over bottle of beer. This is what natural relationship of married couple looks like.
Scene when they confess to each other that if one of them is hurt, then the other feels pain too is the greatest love confession in the kdrama world (hope they will get married for real in last episodes, which I am very much looking forward to!).
Kudos to both lead actors who were able to show us such a wonderful realistic chemistry. (I could rewatch it hundred of times just for seeing Hyungsik as protective husband).
Unforgettable duet of Han Hyo Joo and Park Hyungsik.
He is a detective, she serves in special forces
- together they are perfect badass power couple!
What I love is that Saebom is strong independent brave female character, and Yihyun let her be like that, supporting her actions and not treating her as weak gender. Which means he has great trust in her. But when her life is in danger, he turns into protective mode and saves her at all costs.
It is a big pleasure to watch them respecting each other, fighting together back to back, teasing or having night conversations over bottle of beer. This is what natural relationship of married couple looks like.
Scene when they confess to each other that if one of them is hurt, then the other feels pain too is the greatest love confession in the kdrama world (hope they will get married for real in last episodes, which I am very much looking forward to!).
Kudos to both lead actors who were able to show us such a wonderful realistic chemistry. (I could rewatch it hundred of times just for seeing Hyungsik as protective husband).
Unforgettable duet of Han Hyo Joo and Park Hyungsik.
AWESOME DRAMA
preetigupta-400154 December 2021
Never ending revalation.
porrasmaricris6 December 2021
Already been down for last 2 episodes but there are still another revaluation, you think that you have already the conclusion of the story but you will be again directed to another guessing game. Its very unique and a lot of realization, special when we were been put into this kind of situation. Great job.
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