Most Popular Korean Drama Goblin Review:
When it comes to legendary Kdramas, Goblin (also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) consistently ranks among the top. Since its release in 2016, this fantasy-romance series has not only broken records but has also captured millions of hearts across the globe.
In this Goblin Kdrama review, we’ll explore why this show remains a timeless masterpiece, diving into its plot, characters, performances, OST, cinematography, and the emotional impact it leaves behind. Whether you're a newcomer or revisiting the drama, this review will give you a fresh perspective.
📌 Overview of Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)
Release Date: December 2, 2016 – January 21, 2017
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Episodes: 16 + 3 Specials
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Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Melodrama
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Writer: Kim Eun-sook (Descendants of the Sun, The King: Eternal Monarch)
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Director: Lee Eung-bok
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Main Cast:
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Gong Yoo as Kim Shin (Goblin)
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Kim Go-eun as Ji Eun-tak
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Lee Dong-wook as Grim Reaper
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Yoo In-na as Sunny
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Yook Sung-jae as Yoo Deok-hwa
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✨ Plot Summary
At the heart of Goblin lies a beautiful yet sorrowful story. Kim Shin, a general from the Goryeo Dynasty, is cursed with immortality and becomes a Goblin, destined to wander the Earth until his "bride" removes the sword impaled in his chest.
Enter Ji Eun-tak, a high school student who can see ghosts and claims to be the Goblin’s bride. Their destinies intertwine, leading to a story filled with love, sacrifice, fate, and second chances. The Grim Reaper’s storyline, interlaced with Sunny's, adds even more emotional weight and poetic tragedy.
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💡 What Makes Goblin Stand Out?
1. Stellar Performances
Gong Yoo delivers a performance of a lifetime as the brooding, immortal Goblin. His chemistry with Kim Go-eun feels organic and heartwarming. Lee Dong-wook and Yoo In-na’s subplot provides emotional balance, with comic relief and deep sorrow in equal measure.
2. Exceptional Writing
Kim Eun-sook’s screenplay is lyrical, philosophical, and at times, heart-wrenching. She explores themes of life, death, memory, love, and forgiveness with poetic sensitivity.
3. Aesthetic Cinematography
Every frame of Goblin feels like a painting. The use of soft lighting, slow-motion shots, and symbolic imagery (like falling leaves or snow) adds emotional depth.
4. Unforgettable OST
The original soundtrack deserves its own applause. Songs like “Stay With Me” by Chanyeol & Punch and “Beautiful” by Crush became cultural phenomena.
🎧 Fun Fact: "Stay With Me" has over 400 million views on YouTube, making it one of the most streamed Kdrama OSTs ever.
5. Powerful Themes
Goblin isn't just a fantasy-romance. It deals with existential loneliness, the burden of immortality, and the pain of letting go. These themes resonate deeply with viewers across generations.
📈 Goblin’s Global Success and Cultural Impact
Goblin was a massive success both domestically and internationally, with an average nationwide rating of 13.6% and a peak of 18.7%. It redefined the fantasy-romance genre in Korean drama.
On platforms like Viki and Netflix, Goblin remains among the top-rated Kdramas even years after its release. Its impact on pop culture—from fashion trends to OST karaoke covers—is still felt today.
❤️ Emotional Moments That Define Goblin
Some scenes in Goblin are permanently etched in Kdrama history:
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The iconic "first snow" wish between Shin and Eun-tak.
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The tearful goodbye in Episode 13.
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Grim Reaper’s confrontation with his past.
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The bittersweet finale, offering hope beyond heartbreak.
These moments tug at your heartstrings, making Goblin a show that lingers long after the credits roll.
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🌍 Where to Watch Goblin
You can legally stream Goblin on:
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Netflix (availability may vary by region)
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Viki
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WeTV
🧠 Who Should Watch Goblin?
If you're into:
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Deep, philosophical romance
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Beautiful visuals and poetic storytelling
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Love stories that transcend time
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Strong character development
Then Goblin is a must-watch. It’s perfect for viewers who enjoy emotionally rich dramas like Mr. Sunshine, Hotel Del Luna, or My Love from the Star.
📝 Final Verdict: Goblin Kdrama Review
Goblin is more than just a Kdrama—it’s a cultural landmark. With its masterful blend of fantasy, romance, and philosophy, it continues to move audiences, even nearly a decade after its release.
It may start as a mythical love story, but it ends as a reflection on what it means to live, love, and let go. Every rewatch reveals something new, which is why Goblin remains a fan favorite in every Goblin Kdrama review.
⭐ Ratings (My Personal Pick)
| Category | Rating (Out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Storyline | 9 |
| Acting | 8.5 |
| Cinematography | 9 |
| Music/OST | 9.5 |
| Emotional Depth | 8.5 |
| Rewatch Value | 8 |
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Conclusion
This Goblin Kdrama review shows how the drama has aged like fine wine—still deeply moving, visually captivating, and thematically powerful. If you haven’t watched it yet, now is the perfect time to experience one of the greatest Kdramas ever made.All images, posters, and screenshots used in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only. We do not own any of the images used unless explicitly stated. All image rights belong to their respective owners, including actors, actresses, production companies, and official distributors.
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