1. Plot Summary
Set in modern‑day South Korea with rich historical flashbacks to the Goryeo dynasty, Goblin follows Kim Shin, an immortal warrior turned supernatural being cursed to live forever, seeking an end to his endless existence. He encounters Ji Eun‑tak, a bright yet emotionally scarred high‑schooler who can see ghosts. Believing she may be his destined “bride,” Eun‑tak pulls the sword from Shin’s chest, linking their fates. Alongside them lives the Grim Reaper, Shin’s housemate, who is wrestling with his own erased memory, and Sunny, a quirky restaurant owner tied to both men. Their lives intertwine through themes of love, destiny, friendship and redemption.
2. Notable Elements
-
Performances & Chemistry: Gong Yoo (Kim Shin) delivers gravitas and quiet sorrow, while Kim Go‑eun (Eun‑tak) brings genuine warmth and vulnerability. The chemistry between Gong Yoo and Lee Dong‑wook (Grim Reaper) sparkles in witty banter — fans often cite their bromance as the show’s emotional backbone.
-
Memorable Scenes: The rain‑splitting meeting in Episode 1 and rooftop conversations against neon scenery are visually striking. The “pull‑the‑sword” ritual has become iconic in K‑drama lore.
-
Soundtrack & Cinematography: The OST, especially “Stay With Me” and “Round and Round,” heightens the emotional resonance. The sweeping countryside shots and atmospheric Seoul skylines accentuate the fairy‑tale meets fantasy vibe.
3. Themes & Messages
At its core, Goblin explores mortality vs. immortality—Shin’s longing to die finds parallel in Eun‑tak’s grief and desire for connection. Themes of found family emerge as the characters form bonds beyond blood ties. The series blends fantasy with romanticism and traces redemption
4. Personal Impressions
Strengths:
-
A compelling blend of fantasy and heartfelt emotion
-
Rich visual aesthetic and a soul‑stirring soundtrack
-
Powerful male bonding and close-knit ensemble
Weaknesses:
-
The age‑gap romance between a centuries‑old immortal and a young teen‑aged Eun‑tak unsettles some viewers; pacing also drags in the back half — especially the final few episodes.
-
At times the romantic arc feels forced, and some scenes tread into melodrama excess.
5. Audience Recommendations
-
Ideal for fans of romantic fantasy, supernatural mythology, and evocative cinematography.
-
Perfect if you appreciate well‑written male relationships and emotional character arcs more than conventional romance.
-
Not recommended if you’re sensitive to age‑gap romances or prefer faster pacing and less melodrama.
6. Conclusion & Rating
Overall, Goblin is a beautifully crafted series rich in emotion, fantasy, and visual poetry. Its strengths in performance, music, and character relationships largely outweigh its narrative pitfalls. It remains a milestone in Korean drama and fantasy romance.
Final Recommendation: If you’re drawn to imaginative storytelling grounded in emotional authenticity, Goblin is well worth the watch—especially for its haunting components and unforgettable bromance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4 out of 5 stars)
