Rating: 8.5/10

 Kingdom: Ashin of the North is a dark and emotional origin story that expands the Kingdom universe with tragic intensity. The film follows Ashin, a mysterious figure introduced in Season 2, who reveals his harrowing past and the dark secrets behind the resurrection plant. As the northern border is ravaged by political betrayal, Ashin’s thirst for revenge drives a disturbing transformation, turning his personal pain into an apocalypse.

 The narrative masterfully balances political intrigue with terror, using shocking images of Korean nature and chilling encounters with undead. Jun Ji-hyun delivers a mesmerizing performance as the tormented Ashin, conveying a silent rage and inner turmoil with remarkable depth. Unlike the typical zombie story, this story is deeply human: it explores loss, identity, and the brutal cost of revenge. It’s a must-see movie for fans of Kingdom and a powerful indie film that enriches mythology with emotional weight and cinematic greatness.