A drama that takes an interesting route towards bullying. The topic may not be rarely seen, but "The King of Pigs" provides a unique take on the atrocity, and beyond question it did not limit how disturbing the content can go. Some scenes can be triggering so watch at your own risk (tw // graphic violence, suicide, murder, bullying, brutality, school violence, sexual harassment).

"The King of Pigs" keeps you thrilled from start to finish as there is more to it than what actually seems to be. It gradually depicts each and every section of the past in align with the phenomena at the present. It perfectly portrayed how school violence can affect someone, and even turning a victim into a perpetuator. The drama explores how trauma from such situations could induce actions that would take you aback.

The directing was absolutely brilliant in presenting the flashbacks and escalating the emotions felt by the characters- the switches and transitions between the past and the present were very smooth and easy to understand as they would always correlate to each other. The timing was always perfect and keeps the suspense strong. Every revelation was climactic and never disappoints.

The only significant flaw was some parts of the investigation, mainly those related to Kang Jin A. There were some stupid parts that would displease you. But almost everything else exceeded my expectations so I couldn't be more satisfied with the drama as a whole. Certainly, there were dramatized scenes. The drama isn't the most realistic one you'll see, but it surely added to how intense the story is.

The leads' acting was insane. Kim Dong Wook's subtle yet spine-chilling facial expressions impressed me terrifically. I have watched a few of his works yet never have I been frightened of his stare alone until now (I'm specifically talking about when he met Jongbin and was observing him). Kim Sung Kyu perfectly portrayed his mentally deranged character. The child actors, including the bullies who effectively enraged me immensely, were amazing as well. I wasn't amazed by Chae Jung An's acting, but it's possibly because of her badly written character.

Overall, it's a great dark drama with minimal flaws on a particular side. It would make you feel mentally and emotionally exhausted, but it's definitely worth the watch. The story is like no other, I have never seen a drama like this which explains why the recommendations aren't exactly similar with this one (they're only similar in a way that they're both dark and there are murders). It could however, twist your moral sense so please bear in mind that this is a fictional drama. Do not let it distort your perspective on murderers and topics related to the story. Keep everything within the drama only.