The Killing Vote (2023– ) User Reviews

Better Episode 3.

[hammadahmed-40009 · 6/10 · 20 August 2023]

The second episode left me quite disappointed. There was a rather small bomb in the car, yet the characters reacted as if it were a catastrophic nuclear explosion. Moreover, the two senior cops, who are central to the story, seemed to be acting in a way that felt more suited to a comedy show than a crime drama.

I even contemplated dropping this K-drama after the second episode. However, I decided to give it another chance, and I must say that the third episode brought some much-needed improvement. The storyline seemed to find its footing, and the characters' actions became more convincing.

I'm cautiously optimistic about the future episodes and hope that this K-drama continues to build on the momentum it gained in the third episode. Here's to hoping it evolves into a more engaging and thrilling series.

Do I cast a killing vote on The Killing Vote?

[sareed1971 · 7/10 · 28 September 2023]

What is happening to Korean dramas? It's certainly not the sole responsibility of Netflix as some people think, because kdramas are now more evenly spread over multiple streaming platforms. This show is listed as a drama and a thriller on IMDb, yet some of the performances are bordering on comedic. I get you can't have intensity every minute, but the lighter moments of this show are quite awkward at best and seem very misplaced contextually.

The premise is decent. People who allegedly got away with heinous crimes when judged by the legal system are now being judged by the public. A masked person called "Dog Mask" selects a 'criminal', opens up the voting to the public, and if over 50% feel the 'criminal' needs to be punished, that person is murdered.

Most of the actors are fine in their roles. I know they are limited to the script as written and are guided by a director. The delivery of the dialogue and the accompanying physicality through gestures and movement, however, are usually left to the discretion of the actor.

One person is particular is taking me out of the story in nearly every scene she's in. It's Lim Ji Yeon, who I recognize as the evil sadist from The Glory. In that production, her performance was oftentimes way over the top. I mean, seriously over the top. I chalked it up to her interpretation of the character. But I do recall noting at the time that the performance was almost a caricature. It was difficult to watch her. She just didn't ring true to me. Now she's back in The Killing Vote and once again the physical gestures and the maniacal acting out is far too much for me.

I'm going to try to stick with The Killing Vote, but with the amateurish comedy which never lands as it should, and the lack of talent in some of the performers, I can't promise I'll finish all 12 episodes. I may just read recaps. 2023 hasn't been a banner year for Korean cinematic endeavors. Let's hope in 2024 we return to the high standards we've come to expect.

****Edit. After watching episode 6, I must acknowledge they do a very good job of ratcheting up the tension and most of the cast with the exception of Lim Ji Yeon is excellent. The story seems to have found its rhythm, but we have many episodes left.

Amazing plot series

[wannakayxx · 7/10 · 9 September 2023]

As for now, i like the plot for this series. Keep waiting for the next episode to come out weekly!

Honestly i like all the actors especially park hae jin and lim ji yeon. But i dont know why i think the character lim ji yeon carry in this drama is not for her. It seems like the females character in this drama are just awkward (especially the siblings) and cant carry their character well.

Stars given goes to park hye jin for never disappoint me in any series he act in until now 👍🏼

But i will continue to watch this ongoing series to see the ending and maybe i might change my opinion at the end, who knows.

I Am Hooked On This Thriller

[fieryvee-97874 · 10/10 · 21 August 2023]

If you are a Park Hae Jin fan you will love this drama! PHJ is such a versatile actor. He's quite evil in this drama. Don't worry you will quickly adjust to his menacing role. I've only watched 2 episodes and they left me on the edge of the couch! I am waiting for episode 3 because episode 2 was a nail biter. If you like action and murder mysteries you will love this drama! The cast of actors are excellent and the female lead is from the Glory drama. The only downfall is one episode weekly. I am use to Koreans drama airing twice weekly.

This drama will give many clues throughout the episodes to assist you with determining who the suspects may be. The first episode reveals a relationship. I will say no more. Please watch this excellent drama!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

Lots of potential, not much pay-off

[astrofoxhole · 6/10 · 30 November 2023]

This show has been my insomnia fuel for the past week so I'll say at the very least it's entertaining. However, between the poorly written women characters and predictable ending, it doesn't have any replay value. Do I regret my time watching it? Not at all. Would I watch it again? Absolutely not.

There was clearly a lot of money put into this production, but it seems like the writing got the least amount of the budget. There's some serious plot holes and suspending my judgment doesn't change that. The last 4 episodes feel like a different show than the first 8 episodes which would be cool if it was intentional. It wasn't though, and it seemed as though the suspense they built was for nothing. Overall, it was just OK.

Got hooked from the first episode

[rubytrudie-00676 · 9/10 · 18 November 2023]

I know there will be mixed reviews regarding this show but i have to say its one of the best ive seen . I waited weekly for easch episode and each one made me wish the full series streamed together . The characters , the story line as it unfolded captured me . I didnt mind it being subtitled as any series of this calibre is worth that . I truly hope there is a season too and maybe Hyuan and Min Chun will finally get together as there is an underlying attraction between both . Would recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good crime series with refreshing twists and storyline. The moral dilemma within the story will strike true to most people . I have watched many Korean dramas and Movies and i rate this as one the top 5 ive seen.

Good Enough

[PennyReviews · 6/10 · 15 January 2024]

Korean Drama '' The Killing Vote '' is a chilling thriller that combines many criminal cases, but mainly focuses on the mystery of the dog-masked man who kills those whom the law doesn't punish accordingly.

The drama, therefore, has an intense story, with some crimes being really dark and harsh to follow. Also, towards the ending, everything comes together, even those characters that seemed pointless to watch all this time have their own part in the mystery. Actually, all the characters were interesting, especially the professor, who was a tragic character. The performances were pretty great as well, and there should be a special shout out to the younger members of the cast who really shone.

However, on the other hand, the ending was lukewarm. Sure, there were some moments when the drama started getting blunt and tiring to follow, as they kept dragging, but the ending could have wrapped up things more smoothly.

So, overall, six and a half out of ten.

When justcie turns to vengence

[joncronin · 10/10 · 19 November 2023]

This is a propulsive, superior Korean thriller about the impact of when justice turning into vengence. It's violent, distrubing at times, but always compelling and thought provoding.

Presenting Korean Justice system as corrupt, manipulated, the story uses todays technology (somewhat exaggerated for effect) as providing a solution that offers vegence as an answer to satisfy the grief/anger of the victims family.

Performances are excellent, quite believable; the storyline will keep you guessing, seconf guessing and even shock. The thrill ride makes it quite entertaining, up to and including the ending, and subsequent prologue/ that sets up what could come next.

What makes it better than most justice/Vengence thrillers (The Devil Judge is in my mind superior) is it doesn't shy aay of the consequences of seeking venegence.

Its a superior thriller, very well made and very entertaining.

It's Not about THE KILLING VOTE!!!!

[miguelungson · 3/10 · 27 September 2023]

The first episode was catchy, but it eventually became more dragging and illogical. The setting was very obvious already yet they were still building up their twist in a very sluggish pace. Too much drama for the premise, and the whole show was never about the killing vote to begin with. The just clickbaited us with the killing vote but the killings and the votings never mattered. They could've used a different title and it would've made more sense. They could've used a different title and wouldn't have been any different, it could even make more sense.

If you want to watch it because of the philosophy and justice and coolness of the killing vote, then don't watch it. It's just a personal story drama.

Had me on the edge of my seat

[janstue · 9/10 · 16 December 2023]

The show is absolutely glorious. I wanted to wait until I have watched the full 12 episodes before i write a review. You know, it can go very bad even if the first couple episodes were great. This is not the case here. The show had me glued to the screen episode after episode. The story unfolded as more angles and details are introduced - but in a well thought out manner, unlike many American shows at the moment. The performance of Kwon Kim was outstanding to me. Very memorable. There is little for me left to be desired in the series. Recent shows like this and The Vigilante are more than one step ahead of recent American tv series. The quality here is on another level.

Completely illogical and a mess of a show.

[animesurreal · 1/10 · 17 November 2023]

Like others have said, some scenes are completely illogical to the point of outright stupidity. It started out great but took a turn for the worse mid way. Like someone mentioned the bomb scene. It's a C4 for god sakes and the cop was right next to it and walked away without a scratch?

Characters also consistently made the worst choice they could have made among all possible choices. Why police consistently refuse to use force when innocent lives are at stake?

I think if this show is intended to criticize the unfairness in the Korean justice system, it's not doing a very good job. The very choices the characters made are part of the problem.

Exceptionally well executed show

[pqgsm · 9/10 · 2 October 2023]

I was really surprised by how well this was made. The characters presented have all been compelling in their own ways and the killing vote lends an interesting philosophical sub plot. The majority of the show thru episode 7 has focused more on the individual characters than on the killing vote and it's mysterious broadcaster. Namely, the young and and talented cop who bends rules to catch the bad guys and his former mentor and professor who loses his daughter in a kidnapping that would later be linked to the killing vote. The professor in particular plays his role exceptionally well and is immediately compelling. This isn't a show that delves too deeply into the philosophy of morality and justice but does dip it's toes into those concepts from time to time. Primarily, this is a well paced thriller and drama that focuses on a cast of characters all in some way connected to the Killing Vote. I don't get into many shows these days and hardly ever finish a show anymore but this is one I can't wait to watch through its entire run. Can't remember the last show that captured me the same way. Well done!

Justify White mask

[rugby-13167 · 9/10 · 19 November 2023]

In this drama there is the main thing I appreciate, there is the human story with dynamic of development. After each episode, I have been thinking about the continuation or possible twists in the plot, the authors have made me a participant of the events. I must tell about the perfect acting of the performers, the director was lucky with them. Park Hye-jin is an awesome actor.

With this turn of his head and a glance to the side, he managed to tell everything about his attitude to Joo Hyun . It was happening before our eyes. I hope they can find the time to each other in the second season. The finale leads a reason for the second season. Actually, any ratings are nonsense. Watch and get your own opinion.

If you love twists and turns

[ingroup-64873 · 9/10 · 19 February 2024]

This drama immediately draws you in with the excellent actors who portray their characters in a sincere way. As a person who enjoys drama and mystery, this definitely fits the bill.

Set in the current day Korea, this has echoes of the "Purge" series, but with less random violence. However, the age rating of 13+ is definitely needed due to the significant violence and drug use.

The storyline is gripping and demands you keep watching to figure out who is behind the mask. Park Hae-Jin is an amazing actor as is Park Sung-woong and Lim Ji-Yeon. Each actor portrays their character in a truly relatable and believable way.

I highly recommend this drama for anyone who enjoys action and intrigue.

They've lost me

[hkeisch-97411 · 1/10 · 6 November 2023]

The combination of overly charming and not as suspenseful as they have intended makes this a rough watch. Could have been an okay movie. The worst parts, which feel repetitive and drags down the story's the tempo, have to be the constant replay of the same shots from previous episodes. Entire sections of episodes are just clips from previous episodes spread throughout the newer episode. It feels like a rough draft, pushed to premiere, and dripping with filler.

I could have possibly watched all in succession, if bored, but the delays on Prime, which are actually an SBS scheduling issue involving baseball?, have completely lost me as a viewer. The last episode, 10, was fine. The others were charming, but drag on. A lot of the same. Reveals are expected.

I adore most of the cast and wanted to finish it despite it's faults, but I have no desire to continue when they don't seem to want to show it (I'm actually suspicious as to why, because it feels like they took the story line as far as it needed to go, could go, even).

They decided to end it on 10 instead of 12, and so will I. I Have a feeling it'll just get worse, much, much worse...

The execution is a mess

[yamazyewraldi · 4/10 · 3 April 2024]

It's like watching an action movie for kids. I distinctly remember in the first episode how the main character stomped his own forehead on the table, but when their head lifted, the one bleeding and oozing blood wasn't the forehead in the middle but the side of his head. Like, WHATTT??? Even though the middle of his forehead should've been the spot when his head hit the table, it looked smooth without any scratches. It's utterly ridiculous. That's just the first episode, in the following episodes, there are even more nonsensical scenes that make the show increasingly absurd.

The premise seems promising, but the execution is a mess. I don't know if it's the director's fault, the editor's, the scriptwriter's, the makeup team's, or whoever is involved, but they all seem to be working together to ruin this show. Many scenes look like cheap soap operas from various aspects.

The storyline is rambling and dragging. There are so many unnecessary scenes thrown into the story when it could've flowed just fine without wasting time.

I tried to keep watching even though I lost interest, but I only made it to episode 6. I don't want to waste any more of my time.

Just (Un)bearable

[dumsumdumfai · 4/10 · 5 March 2024]

The premise is interesting and makes me think of tge famous Japanese Death Note. However the technicals are not up to par.

The story quickly get to the meat in episode one but maybe too quickly. All that's left are filled in with melodrama. There are lots of characters but they seem to be needed only to fill in the plot or subplots to fit 12 epidodes. Some are relegated to tertiary role that maybe makes no sense or just for body count later?

The flow and pace is maddening. Feels like first timer director/editor combo. There a lot of pauses, facial portraits, reaction shots without dialogue that hangs about 2 seconds too long. Sometimes scenes are inserted for no explanation to linkage. Case in point, ep 4, jail visiting scene playing the classical music with some flashback that doesn't make sense.

And when you notice the makeup of the female lead is so very different and with a strange pink hue against dead white skin , there is definitely something missing. Up to episode 4 and that's it for me.

Annoying and inconsistent

[bdsmyth-92784 · 2/10 · 2 March 2024]

So, I ended up watching this as a friend recommended it and so we watched it together always wonder what was going to happen next. After a few episodes I started seeing so many plot holes and inconsistencies that it was infuriating. In one episode a bomb explodes in a car, you see our heroine run towards the car but she doesn't make it. In the next the episode the car is surrounded by black smoke before the bomb goes off and the heroine manages to make it to the car before the bomb explodes. I was like what the hell is going on here that didn't happen!. And of course we have the Gaetal's (the name for the people behind the killing vote itself. It goes from 1 to 3 and yeah you always suspect there's more that 1. Then it jumps to 7 and a few episodes later its 457. Totally crazy. I honestly think they made this without any sort of coherent script. It's a slow moving series that relies you to suspend belief in reality at times.