"Tunnel" - A korean series review

If you are a fan of crime solving and time travel dramas, then the OCN K-drama Tunnel is definitely a must-watch. Directed by Kim Kyung Chul and Kim Sung Min, and written by Lee Eun Mi, this drama is a captivating thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Starring Choi Jin Hyuk, Tunnel takes place between the mid-1980s and 2017 in Korea. Our main hero, Detective Park Kwang Ho, travels through time in pursuit of an unknown serial killer. On one side of the tunnel is 1986, on the other side is 2017. Although the series is mostly serious, there are moments of humor, mostly related to how different the world is in 2017 for our time-traveling detective.

Choi Jin Hyuk is a talented and high-energy detective who will do anything to catch a killer, even if it means breaking the rules. He's a highly moral man and pursues the pretty lady of his dreams, Shin Yeon Sook, a girl who works as a secretary at a seamstress' business, until he wins her hand in marriage.

However, things take a dark turn when attractive women in their twenties, always wearing short skirts and stockings, are viciously murdered in their town. When the killer is done, he takes a fountain pen and marks dots on the victims' ankles. One dot, two dots, three dots, etc., numbering each victim. Later on, this will actually help lead Kwang Ho to the real killer.

What makes Tunnel stand out from other crime dramas is the way it handles time travel. Kwang Ho has to adjust to the changes in technology and crime-solving skills, which have evolved significantly from the 1980s to 2017. He has no clue what a cell phone is, and DNA testing is a completely new concept for him. This makes his investigation all the more challenging, as he has to navigate between two very different worlds.

The execution of the time travel concept in this show is impressive, with well-chosen supporting characters that add depth and intrigue to the storyline. The police team, although serious and intense at times, also brings a touch of humor to the show, which adds to its appeal.

Apart from the suspenseful moments, viewers are treated to the heartwarming bromance between Kwang Ho and Seon Jae. Initially at odds with each other, they gradually learn to trust and rely on one another, eventually becoming a great team.

In addition to the bromance, viewers also get a glimpse of Park Kwang Ho's romantic side as he longs to reunite with his beloved wife Yeon Sook in the past. Meanwhile, a subtle romantic spark develops between Seon Jae and Jae Yi, adding another layer of complexity to the characters' relationships.

The drama also deals with the emotional toll of the murders on the town and its inhabitants. Yeon Sook gives her husband a silver whistle on a chain to use in case he's ever in a tight spot while chasing the murderer. "Whistle for me, and I'll come running," she lovingly tells her husband. As for the ending, it's a satisfying one with the detectives successfully capturing the serial killer, and Kwang Ho finally being able to return to the past to be with his wife.

In conclusion, Tunnel is a well-written and well-directed drama that is sure to leave you wanting more. With excellent performances from the cast, especially Choi Jin Hyuk, and a gripping storyline that keeps you engaged throughout, this drama is definitely worth your time. If you're a fan of crime dramas or time travel stories, you won't be disappointed.