Happiness is a South Korean thriller drama that blends elements of zombie horror, action, and psychological suspense. Released in 2021, the series stars Han Hyo-joo, Park Hyung-sik, and Jo Woo-jin. Unlike typical zombie-themed shows, Happiness takes a unique approach by focusing on a small-scale outbreak of a mysterious virus that turns infected individuals into bloodthirsty, rage-driven beings. The story unfolds inside a high-rise apartment complex placed under lockdown, where residents must navigate fear, betrayal, and survival.
One of the series’ biggest strengths is its intense and claustrophobic setting. Instead of a city-wide apocalypse, the show confines the action to an apartment building, creating a tense atmosphere where the greatest threat isn’t just the infected but also the paranoia and selfishness of the trapped residents. The show brilliantly explores themes of human nature under crisis—how people react to fear, power struggles, and moral dilemmas.
Han Hyo-joo and Park Hyung-sik deliver strong performances as detectives and former classmates who find themselves at the center of the outbreak. Their chemistry is a highlight, as their relationship adds warmth and emotional depth amid the chaos. The supporting cast also shines, particularly in portraying the diverse and sometimes sinister personalities of the apartment residents.
The pacing is tight, with suspenseful moments, well-executed action scenes, and social commentary on class divisions and survival instincts. The virus itself is a fresh take on the zombie genre, as it isn’t a full transformation but a temporary, uncontrollable bloodlust, making the infected even more unpredictable.
However, Happiness isn’t without flaws. Some viewers may find the later episodes slightly repetitive, as the confined setting limits the scale of events. Additionally, while the series does a great job of maintaining tension, a few character decisions feel frustratingly illogical.
Overall, Happiness is a gripping and well-crafted thriller that successfully reinvents the zombie genre with its unique setting and strong character dynamics. It offers a mix of action, suspense, and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for fans of survival dramas and psychological thrillers. If you enjoyed Kingdom or Sweet Home, this series is definitely worth checking out!
