Our take
If someone were to curate a list of the best Korean dramas ever made, this supernatural series is sure to make the list. That’s for a reason. Better known as Goblin, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God offers something for every K-drama fan, balancing its historical Sageuk backstory, the fantastical elements, the comedic banter, and of course, the romance, with an ease that we didn’t see elsewhere at the time. The very concept of the dokkaebi– something more akin to a lamp-less, human-like genie rather than European sprites– was so unique, it became the blueprint to fantasy dramas that came after. Still, despite its many copycats, Goblin stands the test of time. With its surprising blend of genres, Goblin feels like a snapshot of the entire landscape of Korean dramas, capturing its best sides with how much fun it had with its concept.
The story
In his quest for a bride to break his immortal curse, a 939-year-old guardian of souls meets a grim reaper and a sprightly student with a tragic past.
In his quest for a bride to break his immortal curse, a 939-year-old guardian of souls meets a grim reaper and a sprightly student with a tragic past.
Who picked it
Isabella Endrinal is a curator at A Good Movie to Watch. She's now free from the corporate night shift. Previous articles have been published in outlets such as NANG Magazine. She's currently catching up on some classic films… if she isn't coping with the fact that the Haikyu anime will end soon.
