8 / 10 (based on 358 reviews)
Still haunted by the death of her friend who was murdered 19 years ago by the infamous Stigmata serial killer, detective Cha Young Jin is determined to catch the culprit.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Kim Seo-hyeong, Deok-Hwan Ryu, Park Hoon, Ji-ho Ahn
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Nobody Knows (2020)
365: Unmyeongeul Geoseuleuneun 1nyeon (2020)
7.9 / 10 (based on 736 reviews)
A story where ten people get the chance to go back in time by one year, but unexpectedly mysterious situations start to arise when their fates are changed and twisted in the process.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Lee Joon-hyuk, Nam Ji-Hyun, Kim Ji-Soo, Ryeoun
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1 season, 24 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Tell Me What You Saw (2020)
7.6 / 10 (based on 841 reviews)
An eccentric genius profiler works with a detective with photographic memory and a police chief to go after a serial killer who was thought to be dead.
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Jang Hyuk, Sooyoung Choi, Seo-Yeon Jin, Seung-su Ryu
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1 season, 16 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Memoriseuteu (2020)
7.7 / 10 (based on 1072 reviews)
Based on the hit webtoon of the same name, “Memorist” is a mystery thriller that tells the story of Dong Baek, a detective with supernatural powers.
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Yoo Seung-ho, Se-yeong Lee, Chang-Seok Ko, Ji-On Yoon
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1 season, 16 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Train (2020)
7.9 / 10 (based on 981 reviews)
A sci-fi melodrama about a man who tries to protect his beloved from a serial killer in a parallel universe.
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Yoon Shi-Yoon, Soo-jin Kyung, Lee Hang-na, So-yul Shin
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1 season, 12 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Missing: Geudeuli Itseodda (2020)
7.8 / 10 (based on 720 reviews)
A village holds spirits of missing, deceased people. A search to find the missing bodies and discover the truth behind their disappearance occurs.
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Go Soo, Joon-ho Huh, Sohee, Ha-Joon Song
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1 season, 15 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Watcher (2019)
7.7 / 10 (based on 474 reviews)
The lives of Do Chi Gwang, Kim Young Koon and Han Tae Joo were destroyed by a tragic affair. They became members of an internal affairs investigation team for the police and they try to dig up the truth on who is behind the tragic affair.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Han Suk-kyu, Seo Kang-Joon, Kim Hyun-joo, Joo-hee Park
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1 season, 16 episodes, 65.0-minute runtime
Kairoseu (2020)
8 / 10 (based on 721 reviews)
A fantasy thriller about a man who is in shock of losing his daughter and a woman who lives in the past, both struggling to save the ones they love.
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Seong-rok Sin, Se-yeong Lee, Ahn Bo-Hyun, Goo Shin
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Ssaikopaeseu Daieori (2019)
7.8 / 10 (based on 651 reviews)
“Psychopath Diary” is the story of Yook Dong Sik who coincidentally picks up the diary of a serial killer.
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Mystery
Main Cast: Yoon Shi-Yoon, In-sun Jung, Sung-Hoon Park, Tae-Hwan Choi
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1 season, 16 episodes, 75.0-minute runtime
Najgwa Bam (2020)
7.5 / 10 (based on 754 reviews)
It is a romantic mystery about digging through the secrets of mysterious events that occurred in a village 26 years ago, that are somehow linked to the mysterious events happening in the present.
Genre: Crime, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
Main Cast: Min Namkoong, Seol-Hyun Kim, Chung-Ah Lee, Sun-Woo Yoon
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1 season, 16 episodes, 65.0-minute runtime
La-i-peu on Ma-seu (2018)
8.1 / 10 (based on 908 reviews)
While investigating a serial murder case, Han Tae Joo gets into an incident. When he wakes up, he finds himself back in 1987. To get back to his present world, he must solve the murder case.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Jung Kyung-ho, Park Sung-woong, Ko Asung, Dae-hwan Oh
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1 season, 16 episodes, 65.0-minute runtime
Mobeomhyungsa (2020)
7.5 / 10 (based on 1099 reviews)
A drama about the race between people who want to get closer to the truth and those who want to cover it up.
Genre: Action, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Son Hyeon-ju, Seung-jo Jang, Elliya Lee, Seung-Hyeon Ji
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1 season, 16 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Gwimul (2021)
8.1 / 10 (based on 3940 reviews)
The story of two fearless men who are willing to go through extreme lengths in their pursuit of a returning serial killer. To uncover the murderer’s identity, the two are forced to look deeper than what the evidence seems to suggest.
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Shin Ha-kyun, Yeo Jin-gu, Shin-rock Kim, Choi Dae-hoon
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
In 2020, the South Korean television landscape was treated to a gripping crime drama series that not only captivated audiences with its intense storytelling but also shone a light on the darker, often overlooked corners of society. “Nobody Knows” is a testament to the power of well-crafted narratives that delve into the complexities of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice. This article takes a closer look at what makes “Nobody Knows” a standout series, from its intricate plot and character development to its impact on viewers and the crime drama genre.
The Core of “Nobody Knows”
At its heart, “Nobody Knows” is a story about the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The series follows Cha Young Jin, a dedicated detective who carries the burden of a friend’s death from her childhood. This unresolved trauma fuels her determination to solve cold cases, particularly those involving children. Her path crosses with a young boy, Eun Ho, who becomes a crucial piece in unraveling a series of mysterious deaths that tie back to her past.
What sets “Nobody Knows” apart is its refusal to shy away from the harsh realities of crime and its ripple effects on individuals and communities. The show expertly navigates themes of loss, guilt, and redemption, making it a deeply emotional journey for viewers.
Unpacking the Characters
Cha Young Jin
Cha Young Jin, portrayed by Kim Seo Hyung, is the epitome of a complex protagonist. Her character is a blend of strength and vulnerability, showcasing a relentless pursuit of justice tempered by personal grief. Kim Seo Hyung delivers a compelling performance, bringing depth and nuance to Young Jin, making her struggles and victories resonate with the audience.
Eun Ho and the Supporting Cast
Eun Ho, played by Ahn Ji Ho, represents innocence caught in the crossfire of adult conflicts. His connection with Young Jin adds layers to the narrative, highlighting themes of familial bonds and the impact of mentorship. The supporting cast, including Ryu Deok Hwan and Park Hoon, contribute significantly to the story’s depth, each bringing their unique perspective to the unfolding mystery.
The Plot’s Intricacies
“Nobody Knows” excels in its storytelling, weaving multiple plotlines into a cohesive narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The series masterfully balances the investigation of current crimes with flashbacks to Young Jin’s past, gradually revealing the connections between them. This narrative structure not only maintains suspense but also enriches the character development, allowing the audience to fully engage with the story’s emotional stakes.
Direction and Cinematography
The direction and cinematography of “Nobody Knows” deserve special mention. The series employs a visual style that complements its tone, with a muted color palette and careful framing that enhance the storytelling. The director, Lee Jung Heum, demonstrates a keen eye for detail, using visual cues to foreshadow developments and deepen the narrative’s impact.
The Impact on Viewers
“Nobody Knows” has left a lasting impression on its audience, primarily due to its emotional depth and the universal themes it explores. Viewers have praised the series for its realistic portrayal of the consequences of crime, not just on victims but on those who seek justice on their behalf. The show has sparked conversations about the importance of addressing unresolved traumas and the need for a compassionate approach to law enforcement.
A Benchmark for Crime Dramas
In the crowded genre of crime dramas, “Nobody Knows” stands out for its focus on character-driven storytelling and its willingness to tackle difficult subjects. The series has set a benchmark for how crime dramas can be both entertaining and enlightening, offering insights into human psychology and societal issues.
Final Thoughts
“Nobody Knows” is more than just a crime drama; it’s a poignant exploration of the human condition. Through its complex characters, intricate plot, and thoughtful direction, the series offers a compelling narrative that stays with viewers long after the final episode. It’s a reminder of the power of television to not only entertain but to reflect and challenge our understanding of the world around us.
In a landscape often dominated by formulaic plots and superficial character development, “Nobody Knows” emerges as a beacon of quality storytelling. It’s a series that not only provides a thrilling viewing experience but also invites audiences to reflect on the deeper themes it explores. For anyone looking for a crime drama that offers both suspense and substance, “Nobody Knows” is a must-watch.