Profile
Title: Karma (악연)
Genre: Crime, Mystery & Thriller
Release Date: April 4, 2025 (Netflix)
Number of Episodes: 6
Starring: Park Hae-soo, Shin Min-a, Lee Hee-joon, Kim Sung-kyun, Lee Kwang-soo, Gong Seung-yeon
Writer/Director: Lee Il-hyung
Production Companies: Moonlight Film, Baram Pictures, Kakao Entertainment
Platform: Netflix
Country: South Korea
Synopsis
Karma follows six individuals whose lives spiral out of control because of a single, fateful accident. One man, drowning in debt, makes a desperate deal that changes his life. A doctor is haunted by a childhood trauma that refuses to fade. Another struggles with financial ruin after a failed investment. Each character makes reckless choices that lead to dangerous consequences. Their stories seem separate at first. But as the series unfolds, their lives become deeply intertwined. Every decision sets off a chain reaction. In this world, every misdeed returns with a heavy price. The series shows that fate and consequence are inseparable. It paints a stark picture of how one act can doom an entire life.
If you enjoyed “Karma” then check out for more recommendations!
Character Dynamics and Performances
Kim Beom-jun (Park Hae-soo):
Park Hae-soo delivers a powerhouse performance as the enigmatic figure whose morally ambiguous actions set the wheels of fate in motion. His portrayal captures the character’s inner torment and ruthless drive, making every scene he’s in feel charged with impending consequence.Lee Ju-yeon (Shin Min-a):
Shin Min-a brings depth and intensity to her role as a doctor haunted by childhood trauma. Her restrained yet powerful performance underscores the theme of how past sins can ripple through one’s life.Park Jae-yeong (Lee Hee-joon):
Lee Hee-joon portrays a man caught in a spiral of debt and desperation. His transformation from a vulnerable debtor to a man willing to commit unthinkable acts for a payout is both chilling and compelling.Jang Gil-ryong (Kim Sung-kyun):
Kim Sung-kyun plays the role of a man edged out by fate—a former employee forced into dangerous work. His character’s quiet intensity and underlying rage add another layer to the series’ complex moral landscape.Han Sang-hun (Lee Kwang-soo):
Lee Kwang-soo offers a surprising turn from his usual comedic roles as he navigates the dark consequences of his actions. His performance brings a sense of tragic inevitability to his character’s journey.Lee Yu-jeong (Gong Seung-yeon):
Gong Seung-yeon’s portrayal of a woman whose seemingly innocuous actions catalyze a chain of tragic events is subtle yet unforgettable. Her character’s involvement underscores the series’ exploration of interconnected destinies.
Is Karma Worth Watching?
Pros:
- Intertwined Storytelling: The series expertly uses nonlinear narrative to slowly reveal how the characters’ lives are inextricably linked, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Strong Performances: With standout turns from Park Hae-soo and Shin Min-a, the cast delivers nuanced performances that elevate the morally complex plot.
- Atmospheric Direction: Lee Il-hyung’s direction creates a haunting, immersive world where every detail—from the abandoned factory scenes to the tense alleyways—feels charged with suspense.
Cons:
- Pacing Hurdles: The first couple of episodes may feel disjointed as the narrative sets up multiple storylines before they converge.
- Complex Plot Layers: The intricate web of character connections and moral dilemmas might be overwhelming for viewers who prefer more straightforward storytelling.
Watch the Karma Trailer
Karma Cast
Main Cast:
- Park Hae-soo as Kim Beom-jun
- Shin Min-a as Lee Ju-yeon
- Lee Hee-joon as Park Jae-yeong
- Kim Sung-kyun as Jang Gil-ryong
- Lee Kwang-soo as Han Sang-hun
- Gong Seung-yeon as Lee Yu-jeong
