Karma: A thriller that settles all scores

When fate decides to deliver, desperation and deceit collide and no one escapes unscathed. This is what Netflix's Karma (2025), a six-episode crime thriller, is serving up. If you're looking for a show that challenges your perspective and keeps you on the edge of your seat, Karma is definitely worth watching. 

Directed by Lee Il-hyung and adapted from the Kakao webtoon of the same name by Choi Hee-seon, it has a vibe—dark, stylish, and unapologetically intense. 

This South Korean series, dropped on 4 April 2025, opens with a haunting image: a burn victim in a hospital—retribution, not an accident. Fifteen days earlier, Lee Hee-joon, buried in debt to loan sharks, conspires with his coworker Gil-ryong (Kim Sung-kyun) to murder his father for insurance money. Their plan goes awry when their staged hit-and-run ends with the body being buried, turning Lee into a prime suspect.

Meanwhile, a drunken driver named Glasses (Lee Kwang-soo) and Yu-jeong (Gong Seung-yeon) accidentally hit the father and secretly bury the body—an act witnessed by Beom-jun (Park Hae-soo), who begins blackmailing them. Ju-yeon (Shin Min-a) resurfaces from the past, intertwining six lives in a gripping and thought-provoking story about fate and the ripple effects of our choices.

Karma Series Poster

Storyline and screenplay

The screenplay of the series is one of its strongest aspects. The series follows six strangers whose lives become entangled due to past decisions, revenge, and irreversible mistakes. The way their stories unfold is nothing short of brilliant.

The pacing is deliberate, allowing tension to build gradually. Unlike many thrillers that rely on fast action sequences, The show takes its time, ensuring that every moment feels significant, thus earned. The screenplay is structured in a way that keeps viewers engaged, making them piece together the connections between characters.

One of the most impressive aspects of the writing is how it balances multiple narratives without feeling overwhelming. Each episode reveals new layers, making you rethink everything you thought you knew. The twists are well-executed, though some moments feel slightly predictable. However, the emotional depth of the characters makes up for any minor flaws in the plot.

The dialogue is also sharp, meaningful, and thought-provoking. Every conversation feels intentional, adding depth to the characters and their motivations.

Park Hae-soo's character, a man struggling with a moral dilemma, delivers some of the most powerful lines in the series. His internal conflict is reflected in his words, making his journey incredibly compelling. Shin Min-a's portrayal of a doctor haunted by her past is equally gripping—her dialogue is filled with regret, hope, and desperation.

Lee Kwang-soo, Kim Sung-kyun, and Gong Seung-yeon bring their own unique energy to the show. Their interactions feel natural, making their relationships believable. The chemistry between the cast members is undeniable, adding an emotional weight to every scene.

Cinematography and background score

The visuals of the series is stunning. The cinematography plays a crucial role in enhancing the suspense, with each shot carefully crafted to hint at deeper connections. The use of lighting and shadows creates an eerie atmosphere, making even the quietest moments feel intense.

The graphics are subtle but effective. Unlike sci-fi or fantasy series that rely heavily on CGI, Karma uses visual effects sparingly. When they do appear, they serve a purpose—whether it's a flashback sequence or a symbolic representation of fate.

The colour palette is muted, reflecting the sombre tone of the series. Dark blues, greys, and deep reds dominate the screen, reinforcing the themes of mystery and consequence. The cinematography ensures that every frame feels intentional, adding to the overall immersive experience.

The soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful. The background score complements the tension, making every scene feel more impactful. The music is subtle, never overpowering the dialogue or action. Instead, it enhances the emotions, making you feel the weight of every decision the characters make. The use of silence is particularly effective—there are moments where the absence of sound speaks louder than words. 

Themes and symbolism

The storyline explores several deep themes, making it more than just a thriller.

The show constantly questions whether our actions shape our destiny or if everything is predetermined. The characters struggle with the idea that their choices have led them to their current situations, making viewers reflect on their own lives.

Each character faces difficult moral choices, often forced to weigh personal survival against ethical integrity. The show challenges viewers to consider whether morality is absolute or shaped by circumstance. 

Many characters are haunted by past trauma, and their actions are driven by a desire for redemption or revenge. The series examines how unresolved pain influences decision-making and relationships.

The narrative structure highlights how strangers become entangled in each other's fates. Karma also explores themes of power dynamics, particularly in legal and financial spheres. Some characters manipulate others for personal gain, showcasing the darker side of ambition and greed.

The not-so-perfect bits

That said, Karma is not devoid of flaws. The subtitles can be clunky at times, which might bug you if you're not used to reading them. Some viewers on IMDb complained about the overly vivid colours clashing with the dark tone, though I think it adds to the show's unique vibe. 

And yeah, the first two episodes are a slow burn, but trust me, the payoff is worth it. If you're looking for a light, fluffy watch, this isn't it—Karma leans into its darkness, so brace for some heavy moments.

Despite some minor flaws, Karma stands out as one of the most engaging thrillers of the year. Its exploration of fate and consequence resonates deeply, making it a must-watch for fans of psychological dramas.

Audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Many viewers have expressed how the show made them rethink their own choices and the impact they have on others. The emotional depth, combined with the suspenseful storytelling, has made Karma a favourite among thriller enthusiasts.

It is a banger of a series that'll hit all the right notes. It's stylish, smart, and just the right amount of chaotic, with a cast that brings their all and a story that keeps you hooked. Whether you're streaming it solo or watching with your gang, it's the kind of show that'll make you binge-watch the whole series. So, grab your snacks, dim the lights, and let Karma take you on a wild ride. You won't regret it.