If you’re a fan of intense action sequences and brooding antiheroes like in John Wick, Netflix has a new series that’s bound to grab your attention. Mercy for None, which debuted on June 6th, is quickly becoming one of the platform’s biggest global hits. Combining fierce combat choreography with a gritty storyline, it’s already been compared to action classics and is garnering praise both domestically and internationally. Here’s why this new Korean thriller is your next must-watch.
The Story: A Former Gangster’s Quest for Vengeance
At the heart of Mercy for None is Gi-jun, a former gangster who’s left behind his violent past, or so he thought. After deliberately severing his Achilles tendon to escape the world of crime, Gi-jun lives in isolation for eleven years. But when his younger brother Gi-seok, now the second-in-command of a notorious gang, is murdered, Gi-jun is dragged back into the underworld for revenge.
Portrayed by So Ji-sub, Gi-jun is a man of few words, letting his actions and intense gaze speak for him. In fact, Ji-sub himself shared in interviews that he wanted to express his character’s power through silence and body language rather than dialogue. This gives the character a unique, compelling presence—quiet, yet dangerous.
This series is adapted from the popular webtoon Gwangjang, published between 2020 and 2021. While the original comic portrayed Gi-jun as frail and limping, the Netflix adaptation reimagines him as a formidable and imposing figure capable of taking on an entire gang single-handedly.
A Dark and Impactful Adaptation
Director Choi Sung-eun emphasizes that the show is a more expansive and unique take on the original material. In the webtoon, Gi-jun spends his days delivering alcohol after leaving the gang. In the series, however, he lives alone in a remote mountain cabin, far from the reach of civilization. This change in his lifestyle adds a layer of isolation that deepens his character’s internal conflict.
The series has also garnered attention for its stellar cast, which includes not only So Ji-sub but also Lee Jun-hyuk, Huh Joon-ho, Gong Myung, and others. The talent of these actors has fueled anticipation before the series even launched, giving viewers high hopes for the performances ahead.
Global Recognition: Critics and Fans Praise the Action
The reception for Mercy for None has been overwhelmingly positive, both in Korea and internationally. The show’s fight scenes, choreographed with a level of precision and immersion rarely seen on screen, have been particularly praised. According to Decider, the tension throughout the series remains high, with each battle feeling gritty and personal. One standout moment is a hallway fight scene that’s been compared to the iconic action sequences of Oldboy.
Fans have drawn comparisons to John Wick—and it’s easy to see why. Much like Keanu Reeves’ character, Gi-jun is a near-invincible figure who can take on dozens of enemies without breaking a sweat. The show’s raw, visceral fight choreography combined with Gi-jun’s silent menace creates a thrilling atmosphere that’s hard to look away from.
Even in South Korea, where the series first aired, viewers have praised its visual style and the controlled brutality of the combat scenes. Some have noted that the mood of the series feels similar to the action-packed films of Ma Dong-seok in The Roundup, with a heavy emphasis on physicality and suspense.
Why You Should Watch It ?
Mercy for None is more than just a typical action series. It’s a blend of suspense, dark themes, and powerful performances. The combination of dark atmosphere, intense combat, and a brooding, silent protagonist makes it a standout on Netflix. Whether you’re a fan of high-octane action films or you’re simply looking for a fresh take on the revenge genre, this Korean thriller delivers in spades.
With its powerful visual storytelling, emotionally charged plot, and incredible fight choreography, it’s no wonder that Mercy for None is already becoming one of the biggest Korean hits of the year. If you’re craving action that’s both stylish and intense, this series is definitely worth a watch.
