Netflix’s new Korean series If wishes could kill has quickly become a trending topic, captivating viewers with its disturbing premise and intense storytelling. Despite not featuring any A-list stars, the drama stands out thanks to its compelling “longing for life” concept and strong performances from its young cast, offering a thrilling school horror experience.
Set in a school environment, the story follows a group of students who come across a mysterious app called Girigo. This app grants any wish, but at a deadly cost. Each fulfilled wish triggers a countdown that inevitably leads to death. As students dig deeper into the app’s origins, they are forced to face not only external dangers but also the darkest parts of themselves.
Beyond the familiar school setting, the series creates psychological tension by blending supernatural elements with shocking twists and disturbing moments. Directed by Park Yoon Seo, who previously contributed to Movingthe drama showcases a down-to-earth yet emotionally impactful approach to fantasy storytelling. The young cast, including Jeon So Young, Kang Mi Na, Baek Sun Ho, Hyun Woo Seok, and Lee Hyo Je, brings fresh energy while effectively handling emotionally challenging scenes, maintaining the suspenseful pace of the show.
The series also integrates themes of school violence into its horror narrative, adding depth to the plot. It begins with the everyday struggles familiar to students – grades, rankings, peer pressure and social dynamics – before gradually exposing the underlying emotional wounds. These hidden tensions become fertile ground for tragedy once the Girigo app enters the scene.
Instead of serving solely as a horror device, the app acts as a mirror that reflects repressed desires and inner darkness. Early on, the series sets its stakes when a character dies, casting a shadow of fear over the group. The ubiquitous countdown timer ramps up the tension, while each episode introduces new mysteries and timely twists, hinting at a much larger and more sinister system behind the app.
As the story progresses, it expands into mystical territory by incorporating elements of Korean shamanism. This creates an intriguing clash between modern technology and spiritual beliefs. At the center is Se Ah, played by Jeon So Young, a track athlete who remains one of the few rational figures while her peers are consumed by desire. She embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth and save those around her.
The contrast between the innocent appearance of the characters and the ruthless actions they are capable of performing under pressure adds a chilling layer to the narrative. The drama does not shy away from depicting school violence as the root cause of distorted desires, revealing a harsh truth: sometimes, the most terrifying force is not the supernatural, but human nature when given uncontrolled power.
Although the most famous stars are missing, If wishes could kill has topped Netflix’s trending charts thanks to the consistent and compelling performances of its young cast. In contrast to many high school dramas criticized for poor acting, this series demonstrates a strong commitment to character depth and emotional realism.
Jeon So Young stands out as Yoo Se Ah, delivering a nuanced performance built on subtle emotional details rather than exaggerated techniques. His performance in moments of life and death feels particularly authentic, drawing viewers into the character’s fear and desperation.
Meanwhile, Lee Hyo Je impresses with a bold transformation, gaining weight for his role as Choi Hyeong Wook, a socially isolated student with a complex inner world. Lee Hyo Je’s physical and behavioral changes add depth to the character, making him vulnerable and unpredictable.
Baek Sun Ho and Kang Mi Na also show notable growth, offering stable performances and natural chemistry. Baek Sun Ho excels in emotionally charged scenes, while Kang Mi Na portrays a gradual psychological change with controlled and layered expressions.
Overall, the cast demonstrates strong immersion and coherence, favoring realism over superficial charm. Their performances elevate the drama beyond a typical school horror series, offering a more immersive and immersive viewing experience.
With a score of 3.5/5, If wishes could kill stands out as a unique entry in the school horror genre. While it doesn’t aim to be a flawless blockbuster, it does create a tense atmosphere and explores the cost of human desires. However, the last part of the story feels a little rushed, with key plot points resolved too quickly, leaving a slight sense of incompleteness. Furthermore, the school environment, while recognizable, limits the scope of his ideas.
Even so, thanks to its gripping plot and solid performances, the series remains a must-watch, especially for viewers looking for a darker, more suspenseful drama.
Sources: K14
