Lee Jae Wook's new Netflix series Dead-End Job is gaining attention from international viewers, with many comparing the Korean horror drama to a live-action video game because of its unusual settings, mysterious challenges, and frightening atmosphere.
Released on October 30, the eight-episode mystery horror fantasy quickly attracted overseas audiences with its combination of supernatural events, dark comedy, and everyday workplace struggles.
The series follows Byun Hyuk Joon, played by Lee Jae Wook, a young man facing more than 140 million KRW in debt. He takes on unusually well-paid part-time jobs through a mysterious employment agency, only to encounter strange and terrifying situations at different workplaces.
The drama also stars Go Min Si, Kim Min Ha, and Lee Hee Joon.
According to FlixPatrol, Dead-End Job reached No. 2 on Netflix's global ranking beginning November 1 and topped the charts in 14 countries shortly after its release.
The series also recorded a 7.2 out of 10 rating on IMDb, based on approximately 1,500 user ratings at the time of reporting.
However, one of the biggest talking points among international viewers has been the drama's resemblance to horror video games.
On Reddit, viewers discussed how the show's different workplace settings reminded them of popular horror games and supernatural stories.
One viewer described the convenience store setting in the first episode as “a live-action version of an indie horror game.”
Another compared the series' unusual atmosphere to the classic American science fiction show The Twilight Zone, while someone else jokingly described it as “Kingdom Hearts with more blood.”
The show's combination of frightening situations and unexpected humor also received attention.
One Reddit user commented, “It's rare to see a K-drama lean this heavily into black comedy, absurdity, and surrealism.”
The viewer added that some moments were so ridiculous that they could not help laughing despite the unsettling atmosphere.
International entertainment outlets also shared positive reactions.
American publication Decider recommended watching the series, describing it as an entertaining experience for horror fans, even though the characters could have been explored more deeply.
India Today praised Lee Jae Wook's performance, noting his ability to move naturally between comedy and genuine fear while portraying a character caught in increasingly unusual situations.
Other viewers appreciated how the drama used supernatural horror to reflect the difficulties of modern working life.
One IMDb reviewer suggested that the story's real source of fear was the pressure of living in a society where financial desperation can push people into dangerous situations.
Despite the positive response, some viewers expressed mixed opinions about the show's later episodes.
Several Reddit users felt that the story became less engaging as it progressed, while others criticized the unclear ending and inconsistent visual effects.
Still, discussions about a possible second season have continued among international audiences.
One Reddit user wrote, “I hope this series becomes really popular so we can get Season 2 soon. There are still so many unanswered questions.”
Another viewer shared that they originally opened Netflix to watch something else but ended up finishing the entire series with their partner in one night.
While Netflix has not announced a second season, the growing overseas discussion suggests that Dead-End Job has caught viewers' attention with its unusual approach to Korean horror.
With its strong early rankings and comparisons to horror video games, the series is becoming a notable addition to Netflix's Korean mystery and fantasy lineup.
