This Dark K-Drama Features the Most Unsettling Bullying Scenes That Are Sadly Based on a True Story
Looking for a show that digs deep into revenge, trauma and the consequences of bullying? This Netflix original is exactly what you need right now.
Stories about bullying and its consequences are not easy to nail, and I've seen my fair share of attempts to tackle this sensitive subject. The most recent and successful example that comes to mind is Adolescence, which actually gave me nightmares and undeniably left its mark on my brain.
But while Adolescence is great at exploring the consequences of a murder partly happening due to bullying, there's just as good of a K-Drama that pushes the envelope even further.
A series that's been living rent-free in my mind for the past two years. And now, when Adolescence so boldly and loudly has raised the topic of bullying in the mainstream media again, it couldn't be more suitable to revisit this Netflix original.
The Glory (2022-2023): Revenge Served Ice Cold
The aftermath of bullying can stretch far beyond the initial trauma. This psychological wound completely reshapes one's entire existence. That's exactly why I love The Glory. It gets this.
The Glory follows Moon Dong-eun, a woman who's spent nearly two decades meticulously planning revenge against her high school bullies that absolutely ruined her life.
The series doesn't shy away from showing the raw, uncomfortable reality of school violence. The flashback scenes are brutal, yes, but they're necessary to understand why Dong-eun becomes who she is. And trust me, her transformation from a victim to this disciplined and cold master of revenge is absolutely mind-blowing.
I particularly love how the show takes its time to explore not just the main revenge plot, but also the chain reaction that comes with the bullying of everyone involved. Kind of reminds me of Adolescence in that aspect. Though The Glory is a different perspective on things for sure. Yet what I love about both of them is a slow-burn high quality exploration of human nature.
Unfortunately, Bullying in The Glory Is Based on Real Life Events
Now, just like with any movie that tackles such a heavy topic, I'd advise you to really think before watching it. And I know that this only fuels up the interest for many, but this time it's no empty words.
Some horrifying bullying scenes depicted in The Glory were actually inspired by a real-life incident that happened in a South Korean school. This includes the most disturbing scene in the entire series.
I know it's pretty wild to think about. But that's exactly why shows like this are so important. They shine a light on the dark corners we prefer to ignore.
If you're wondering whether to give it a shot, I'd say go for it, but consider if you can actually handle it and maybe don't plan it as a light weekend binge. This is the kind of show that deserves your full attention and might need some processing time between episodes. You can watch it right now on Netflix.
