Uncle Samsik Review: Song Kang-Ho's Gripping K-drama Explores Korea's Devastating History

In the heart of Korea's bustling political landscape lies a world of power, intrigue and ambition. Uncle Samsik delves into the gripping tale of political maneuvering, through the eye of Song Kang-ho's Uncle Samsik.

Uncle Samsik Review: Plot

Set in 1960s Korea, the Disney Plus Hotstar series follows Uncle Samsik, an ambitious man who manipulates the system and its key players for the advancement of the nation. After working with and for a bunch of men for years, Uncle Samsik sets his eyes on Kim San, an idealist who wants nothing more than to transform his country into an industrial nation and deliver an American level of affluence to the people of Korea. United by their shared goal of a prosperous future, Uncle Samsik and Kim San form an uneasy alliance as they navigate the complexities of the established order.

Uncle Samsik Review: Screenplay, Cinematography and Direction

Director Shin Yeon-shick created an outstanding project with this one! Uncle Samsik's first five episodes are nothing short of a thrilling ride! While the initial two episodes may appear slow due to the character introductions and plot development, they lay a solid foundation that keeps you hooked. From episode three onwards, the K-drama is in full swing as Uncle Samsik sets his eyes on Kim San and we finally get a glimpse of the uncle's game.

Despite the series using the classic past and present story-telling technique, the transitions between timelines feel seamless, with no scene feeling out of place. Every action taken by the characters carries weight and significance. Honestly, it's just fascinating to see everything play out.

The set design team deserves a special applause for their exceptional work in recreating the old South Korea settings. From the bustling streets to the intimate interiors, every detail in the web series feels authentic. Additionally, the cinematographer's skillful execution beautifully captures not just the actors, but also the essence of these settings.

As for the background score, each sound complements the visuals on screen, whether it is the sound of pouring rain during the opening shot or the music as Kim San delivers his inspirational speech.

Uncle Samsik Review: Performances

Parasite fame Song Kangho essayed the role of Uncle Samsik, a social chameleon who adapts to any situation, to perfection. Throughout the first four episodes, we get to see Song Kang-ho as a witty Uncle Samsik who is slowly trying to make his way to the top. However, at the end of episode five, we get a small glimpse of the Uncle Samsik who has beaten the system and believes himself to be a god, and boy, does it send shivers down our spine. As for Byun Yo-han, the actor was the center of attention whenever he appeared on screen as Kim San.

However, it was the scenes between Song Kang-ho and Byun Yo-han that were truly exceptional as they effortlessly bounced their energies off one another. There is one scene in particular that stands out, in which Uncle Samsik tells Kim San to ditch his girlfriend so that he can succeed in his plan to help Korea prosper as a riot breaks out. The duo’s emotions, actions and dialogue delivery during the scene were just, wow!

Lee Kyu-hyung, who played Kang Sung-min, and Jin Ki-joo, who was Kim San's girlfriend, also put forth commendable performances in the gripping web-series.

Uncle Samsik Review: Final Verdict

For anyone who loves gripping political dramas, Uncle Samsik will nothing short of a thrilling watch. And what if you don't love that genre? Well, give Uncle Samsik as chance because you're sure to get hooked trying to understand the uncle's game.