7 K-Dramas With Crazy Psychotic Villains That Make You Yearn For Payback
Shows that prove a good antagonist is a key to success.
The important element of any story is a conflict that the main characters must overcome in order to grow. The important part of that conflict is an antagonist.
A good big bad can define a series. Even if the protagonists are not that compelling, a colorful, crazy villain can keep the audience hooked. It's all about the thrill of seeing them meet their demise.
If you love yourself a truly psychotic villain who is fun to watch on screen, here are seven K-dramas that are right up your alley.
Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (2021)
IMDb rating: 7.4/10
Where to stream: Netflix, TVING
The story of the confrontation between the two leads, a 600-year-old human turned immortal and a woman who can remember all of her past lives, is made so much deeper and more exciting thanks to its charming villain, a powerful and wealthy immortal who lives life to the fullest.
Remember: War of the Son (2015)
IMDb rating: 7.7/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, Kocowa, SBS World
Few antagonists can compare to this drama's villain, Nam Gyu-man, who is rich, spoiled, ruthless, violent, and brutal. His company even has its own legal team to deal with the consequences of his chaotic behavior. It is certainly satisfying to see the protagonist hunt Gyu-man down.
Save Me (2017)
IMDb rating: 7.9/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, Tubi
The lead tries to save his classmate from a dangerous religious cult. Of course, there's nothing more blood-curdling and menacing than a powerful cult leader who hides a psychotic, murderous nature beneath a kind and caring demeanor.
Marry My Husband (2024)
IMDb rating: 7.9/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, TVING
The terminally ill lead is accidentally killed by her husband after she walks in on him making out with her best friend. She wakes up 10 years before the tragic events and sets out to change her fate by getting her friend to marry her husband. The main antagonist is the friend/lover, who is so well written and acted that you can't help but love to hate her.
The Glory (2022-2023)
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Netflix
This K-drama is all about taking down your enemies. A woman who was horribly bullied at school grows up and carries out her long-planned revenge. The students-turned-adults who tormented her are all so psychotic that you just sit there rooting for their downfall.
Vincenzo (2021)
IMDb rating: 8.4/10
Where to stream: Netflix
Park Joo-hyung was raised by a mafia boss, so when a powerful corporation crosses his path, he is not afraid to use brutal methods against them. His opponents are male and female antagonists who make other screen villains look like fluffy puppies.
Death's Game (2023)
IMDb rating: 8.6/10
Where to stream: Netflix
The lead character attempts suicide and is punished by Death itself. He must endure death in 12 different bodies. Some of his reincarnations are tortured by psychotic people, others are crazy themselves. All in all, the show is packed with compelling antagonists.