This show is primarily a scathing indictment of the institutional bullying that takes place in compulsory military service in South Korea. Told with an ironic brisk tone and occasional sardonic dark comedy, the horror is real, never exaggerated but portrayed in a matter of fact way that makes it so much more effective and powerfully moving. Some other reasons for desertion are also shown like economic reasons. But the torture is the main thing here.this show is a success because the subject matter is a universal problem in any country where men are forced into so called military service and killed or injured mentally and physically. Akin to a normal innocent person being sentenced to prison and torture for a crime they didn't commit.
There is an onward momentum and a fast pace unlike many other shows because this one has only 6 episodes. No slow moments or wasted scenes and all things come together. Sometimes you need to concentrate to keep clear who is who as there are many soldiers.
Jung Hae In was so good in Something in the Rain but his recent projects like a Piece of Your Mind weren't good enough for him. He is such a terrific actor showing a sympathetic dramatic side here. In D. P. the bullying he suffers is so much more painful to watch because it is him and the viewer can feel his righteous indignation under his self control. Kudos to Shin Seung Ho who is well cast and very effective as a bullying sadist.
There is a lot more to tell and season 2 should be a good one. Congratulations to the cast and crew and writer.
