Awaken (2020) poster
8.2
Your Rating: 0/10
Ratings: 8.2/10 from 7,961 users
# of Watchers: 21,035
Reviews: 48 users
Ranked #1265
Popularity #820
Watchers 7,961

It’s been nearly thirty years since one small village was plagued by a mysterious string of events that shook it to its core. While the events were never fully understood, nor the mystery behind them solved, the stories surrounding the village slowly faded, drifting into obscurity amidst the steady passing of time. But when a new string of mysterious incidents begin to take place, memories long-forgotten begin to resurface, and this time, the villagers' cries for help will not go unheard. A legend among his peers, Do Jung Woo is the leader of one of the National Police Agency’s special task forces. While his outward appearance likens him more to an unruly child than a legendary officer, his keen insight and quick wit make him more than capable of solving any crime. After reports of numerous mysterious incidents begin to filter in, Jung Woo springs into action. But this isn’t a mystery he’s allowed to solve on his own. Working alongside Jung Woo, Officer Gong Hye Won refuses to let anything stand between her and what she wants. Tenacious and hot-tempered, she’s determined to solve every case, by any means necessary, and this case is no exception. Joined by Jamie, a detective on loan from the FBI, Jung Woo and Hye Won set out to unravel the present mysteries of this small village. But they soon realize that the incidents of the present tie strongly to those of the past. Will this team of experts be able to solve a case nearly thirty years in the making? (Source: Viki) Edit Translation

  • English
  • 中文(简体)
  • Arabic
  • Русский
  • Country: South Korea
  • Type: Drama
  • Episodes: 16
  • Aired: Nov 30, 2020 - Jan 19, 2021
  • Aired On: Monday, Tuesday
  • Original Network: tvN
  • Duration: 1 hr. 10 min.
  • Score: 8.2 (scored by 7,961 users)
  • Ranked: #1265
  • Popularity: #820
  • Content Rating: 15+ - Teens 15 or older

Where to Watch Awaken

Viki
Free (sub)
Netflix
Subscription (sub)

Cast & Credits

Photos

Awaken (2020) photo
Awaken (2020) photo
Awaken (2020) photo
Awaken (2020) photo
Awaken (2020) photo
Awaken (2020) photo

Reviews

Completed
TheRedBiscuits
45 people found this review helpful
Aug 16, 2023
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed 1
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

The blurred line between right and wrong

This one took months to write because I wanted to use big words (I know...) and I watched the show 3 times before submitting.

Prepare for a binge-watch session like no other, as Awaken sets a new standard for action-thrillers. This drama delivers heart-pounding suspense and electrifying action that's sure to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This series has solidified its place as a must-watch for anyone seeking entertainment that lingers in the mind long after the credits fade.

Story:
Is it murder or suicide? It's hard to tell when it comes to the mysterious case this show throws us into. Seems like another one of those detective shows, but do not be fooled. As the story progresses, things escalate and you find yourself watching something entirely different. Buckle up, because the action-thriller show that is about to hit your screen is an absolute rollercoaster ride.

Characters:
The characters in Awaken are three-dimensional gems that shine brighter with each episode. From the brilliant and mysterious lead Do Jung Woo, who adds a touch of humor amidst the chaos, to the brooding yet brilliant FBI agent grappling with her dark past - each character evolves realistically as they face moral dilemmas and personal challenges.

Acting:
The performances in this drama are nothing short of exceptional. The cast effortlessly brings their characters to life, infusing every line with emotion and depth. Each actor's portrayal contributes to the show's gripping atmosphere. Not even a single drop of disappointment here.

Writing and Dialogue:
Now believe it or not, there is not a single show without loopholes, not even this one. Perfect writing doesn't exist, but this one is pretty close to it. The writing is razor-sharp with dialogues that keep you engaged. The pacing is expertly handled, combining heart-stopping action sequences with moments of quiet introspection that give insight into the characters' motivations. Twists and turns are seamlessly integrated, creating a narrative that leaves you craving more after every episode.

Cinematography:
The camera work amplifies the tension, capturing the energy of chase scenes and the raw emotion in the characters' expressions. The use of light and shadow enhances the show's gloomy atmosphere, immersing viewers deeper into its world.
The haunting soundtrack adds an extra layer of intensity to key moments, heightening the emotional impact.
(No, literally. I can still hear "set me free", even though weeks passed since I last watched it.)

Message:
Beneath the adrenaline-fueled action lies a harsh message: where's the line between right and wrong? It's blurred. Can you see it? Awaken doesn't shy away from exploring complex topics, giving viewers food for thought long after the credits roll.

Viewer Experience:
As a viewer, I was gripped by a sense of exhilaration that's hard to put into words. The heart-racing action, the intricate plot twists, and the genuine emotional connections between characters create an experience that is deeply moving.

Final Verdict:
Awaken is a triumph in the action-thriller genre. With its compelling characters, relentless pacing, and thought-provoking themes, it delivers a viewing experience that's not to be missed. If you're a fan of adrenaline-pumping suspense and intelligently crafted storytelling, this series deserves a top spot on your watchlist.
Beware: You'll probably lose a lot of tears.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Frederick H
47 people found this review helpful
Jun 11, 2023
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10
This review may contain spoilers

An intense, powerful and emotional thriller.

„If you’d have all the money and power in the world, what would you want next? To live forever.”

I didn’t expect much when I started this drama. Sure, I finished the first episode and thought „ugh, another 16 hour show about serial killers.” I was so glad I was wrong. Oh boy, It is MUCH deeper than that.
To be honest, it is extremely hard to express how dark and emotional this drama really is. As we arrive to the second half of the show we realize that our beloved ML is not only fighting against the antagonists, but also his own darkness.

The cinematography and music was on point. The combination of the dark atmosphere and the sometimes suspenseful, other times overly emotional music just came together perfectly, making a drama that feels like a punch in the gut – in the best way possible.

While some characters could have been a little bit more interesting, and some things did feel a tiiiny bit convenient and exaggerated, I have to say: everything connects BEAUTIFULLY. The writing is actually so good that even when you see a twist coming, you're still going to feel the things you’re supposed to.
That is a word I would use to describe this drama: FEELINGS. All kinds of feelings and maybe too much of them, because I swear to GOD it ripped my soul apart.

The plot is really well done and there are many twists throughout it, constantly keeping us on the edge of our seat and eager to see what happens next or just simply feeling hopeless.

The three main leads are phenomenal and the side characters are great. The old man was my favourite. The acting is incredible. Seol Hyun's acting was just too good. At times I could feel what her character was feeling. I wanted to cry with her.

I could go on for hours about how good the fight scenes were and how explosive the chemistry between the leads was, but I’m just going to tell you to watch it. It’s something everyone needs to experience. Go watch it.

So what is Awaken really like?
Addictive. Unforgettable. Emotional. Brilliant.

Also it's great to see more dramas get more than one season, but why not do the same with this one? There is so much potential here for a second season.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?

Recommendations

L.U.C.A.: The Beginning
Mouse
The Veil
Flower of Evil
Blind
Kill It

Recent Discussions

Be the first to create a discussion for Awaken

Details

  • Drama: Awaken
  • Country: South Korea
  • Episodes: 16
  • Aired: Nov 30, 2020 - Jan 19, 2021
  • Aired On: Monday, Tuesday
  • Original Network: tvN
  • Duration: 1 hr. 10 min.
  • Content Rating: 15+ - Teens 15 or older

Statistics

  • Score: 8.2 (scored by 7,961 users)
  • Ranked: #1265
  • Popularity: #820
  • Watchers: 21,035

Top Contributors

343 edits
53 edits
46 edits
43 edits

News & Articles

Popular Lists

Related lists from users
Nail Biters & Whodunits
403 titles 382 loves
Well-written NON-ROMANCE dramas
151 titles 784 voters 563 loves 78
tvN Dramas
337 titles 199 loves

Recently Watched By