Hey, everyone! How’s it going? Today I’m here to review the drama The Uncanny Counter, which has captivated Netflix audiences worldwide with its unique blend of supernatural action, heartwarming family dynamics, and thrilling demon-hunting adventures that will keep you rooted for this unlikely team of heroes.
The Uncanny Counter premiered on Netflix on November 28, 2020, with its second season “Counter Punch” releasing on July 29, 2023. The first season features 16 episodes while the second season has 12 episodes, each running approximately 70 minutes. This Korean supernatural action series delivers a compelling narrative that combines demon hunting with coming-of-age storytelling, creating a viewing experience that explores themes of family, belonging, justice, and the power of teamwork against evil forces.
The series takes viewers into a world where ordinary people work as undercover demon hunters while running a noodle shop as their front business. Based on the Kakao Webtoon “Amazing Rumor” by Jang Yi, The Uncanny Counter stars Jo Byeong-kyu, Yoo Jun-sang, Kim Se-jeong, Yeom Hye-ran, and Ahn Suk-hwan in performances that perfectly balance the show’s supernatural elements with genuine emotional depth. What starts as a teenager’s journey of self-discovery quickly evolves into an epic battle between good and evil.
Noodle Shop Workers by Day, Demon Hunters by Night
The Uncanny Counter follows a group of demon hunters called “Counters” who work undercover at a noodle restaurant while using special abilities to capture evil spirits that have escaped from the afterlife to prey on humans. The series begins when So Mun, a disabled high school student, accidentally becomes the youngest Counter after a near-death experience connects him to a spirit from Yung, a realm between life and death.
The genius of the series lies in how it transforms the typical superhero origin story into something deeply personal and family-oriented. The noodle shop becomes more than just a cover—it’s a genuine home where these broken individuals find the family they never had, making their supernatural mission feel like a natural extension of their desire to protect their loved ones and community.
So Mun’s Journey from Outcast to Hero
Jo Byeong-kyu delivers an outstanding performance as So Mun, a character whose transformation from a bullied, disabled teenager to a confident demon-hunting hero forms the emotional core of the series. His portrayal captures the vulnerability of someone who has been marginalized his entire life suddenly finding purpose and belonging with the Counters. So Mun’s disability becomes a strength rather than a limitation, and his pure heart makes him the most powerful Counter.
What makes So Mun’s character development particularly compelling is how the series handles his growth with sensitivity and authenticity. His journey isn’t just about gaining supernatural powers—it’s about learning to value himself, building genuine relationships, and understanding that being different can be a superpower when channeled correctly.
Do Ha-na’s Fierce Protection and Hidden Vulnerability
Kim Se-jeong brings incredible depth to Do Ha-na, a Counter with psychometric abilities who initially appears cold and distant but gradually reveals her protective nature and emotional wounds. Her character represents the balance between strength and vulnerability, showing how trauma can make someone appear harsh while hiding a deeply caring heart. Ha-na’s relationship with So Mun evolves from reluctant mentorship to genuine sibling-like affection.
Ha-na’s fighting scenes are particularly impressive, showcasing Kim Se-jeong’s commitment to the physical demands of the role while never losing sight of the character’s emotional complexity. Her journey from a lone wolf to someone who learns to trust and care for her Counter family provides some of the series’ most touching moments.
When Evil Spirits Threaten Everything They Love
The series reaches its most intense moments when powerful evil spirits target not just random victims, but the Counters themselves and the people they care about most. The second season, “Counter Punch,” introduces even more dangerous antagonists who force the team to evolve their abilities and strengthen their bonds. These climactic battles showcase the series’ impressive action choreography while maintaining focus on the emotional stakes.
The turning points in The Uncanny Counter are masterfully crafted because they always center on the family dynamics and personal growth of the characters. The supernatural threats become catalysts for deeper character development, making each victory feel earned and emotionally satisfying.
Success on Netflix
The Uncanny Counter became one of Netflix’s most popular Korean series, praised for its perfect blend of supernatural action, heartwarming family drama, and impressive special effects. The series achieved remarkable success in South Korea, with the second season finale reaching a 6.1% rating and setting new records. Critics and audiences have consistently praised the show’s ability to balance intense action sequences with genuine emotional storytelling, making it accessible to both superhero fans and those seeking meaningful family drama.
A Heartwarming Supernatural Adventure Worth Your Time
If you love supernatural action series that combine demon hunting with family drama and character development, The Uncanny Counter is the perfect series to binge on Netflix. The show succeeds in creating a uniquely Korean take on the superhero genre while delivering genuinely touching stories about found family, personal growth, and the power of good triumphing over evil.
Why You Should Join This Extraordinary Counter Team
Positive Aspects:
- Outstanding ensemble cast with Jo Byeong-kyu and Kim Se-jeong delivering powerhouse performances that balance action and emotion perfectly
- Brilliant writing that combines supernatural elements with genuine family drama and character development
- Exceptional production values with impressive fight choreography, special effects, and cinematography that brings the demon-hunting action to life
- Meaningful representation of disability and social issues wrapped in entertaining superhero storytelling
- Perfect balance of heartwarming family moments, intense action sequences, and emotional character growth across two satisfying seasons
Negative Aspects:
- Some supernatural elements may require significant suspension of disbelief for viewers preferring realistic drama
- The episodic nature of demon hunting cases may feel repetitive to viewers seeking more serialized storytelling
- Certain villains and evil spirits may be too intense or frightening for younger viewers despite the family-friendly themes
- The long episode runtime (70 minutes each) may be challenging for viewers with limited time
- Some emotional moments may feel overly sentimental for viewers preferring more cynical or darker superhero content
The Uncanny Counter stands as one of the most successful examples of how to blend supernatural action with heartwarming family drama while maintaining authentic character development.
Series Details
- Number of Episodes: 28 episodes total (16 in Season 1, 12 in Season 2)
- Platform: Netflix
- Release Year: 2020-2023
- Current IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- Genre: Supernatural Action, Family Drama, Fantasy
- Production Type: Korean K-drama (based on webtoon)
- Status: Completed (2 seasons available)
- Protagonists: Jo Byeong-kyu (So Mun), Kim Se-jeong (Do Ha-na)
- Antagonist: Various evil spirits and demons from the afterlife