Black Knight (South Korean Web Series)

Black Knight (Korean: 택배기사; RR: Taekbaegisa) is a South Korean dystopian web series released on Netflix in 2023. Directed by Cho Ui-seok, the series consists of six episodes and is based on the webcomic of the same name by Lee Yoon-kyun, which was serialized on Toomics from 2016 to 2019.

Premise

The story is set in the year 2071, in a version of the Korean Peninsula devastated by extreme air pollution. With only approximately one percent of the population surviving, society has reorganized into a rigid class system. Due to the toxic atmosphere, citizens rarely leave their homes and rely on specialized delivery drivers, known as "knights," to transport essential goods and protect them from raiders.

Promotional image for the series Black Knight — Promotional artwork for the Netflix series Black Knight.

Plot

The narrative centers on "5-8," a legendary delivery knight renowned for his exceptional combat skills. His path crosses with Yoon Sa-wol, a refugee who aspires to become a knight himself. Meanwhile, Jung Seol-ah, an officer in the Defense Intelligence Command, plays a pivotal role in the lives of those around her, including Sa-wol, whom she protects. As 5-8 mentors Sa-wol, the series explores the power dynamics and social inequalities of this desolate future.

Cast

Kim Woo-bin as 5-8
Song Seung-heon as Ryu Seok
Kang You-seok as Yoon Sa-wol
Esom as Jung Seol-ah

Kim Woo-bin as 5-8 — Kim Woo-bin portrays the legendary delivery knight 5-8.

Song Seung-heon as Ryu Seok — Song Seung-heon plays the character Ryu Seok.

Kang You-seok as Yoon Sa-wol — Kang You-seok plays the refugee Yoon Sa-wol.

Esom as Jung Seol-ah — Esom plays the intelligence officer Jung Seol-ah.

Production

The series was adapted from the webcomic Taekbaegisa by Lee Yoon-kyun. It was produced for Netflix and released globally on May 12, 2023.