This series contains disturbing scenes such as violence, harassment and suicide that may cause distress or trigger memories of traumatic events. Please proceed with caution if you would like to watch this show.

D.P. is a 6-part South Korean television series released exclusively through Netflix based on the webtoon, D.P. Dog’s Day. It follows the story of Ahn Jun-ho as he joins the D.P. (Deserter Pursuit) unit not long after he enlists in the military to fulfill his mandatory service. He teams up with Corporal Han Ho-yeol and goes on adventurous missions to catch deserters.

A young private's assignment to capture army deserters reveals the painful reality endured by enlistees during their compulsory calls of duty.

a masterpiece.

I won’t be writing a long review because this show left such a powerful impact that I was literally at a loss for words after watching the last episode. I felt empty and heart-broken. I’m not even sure if those are the right words. The series only consists of 6 episodes but it did an excellent job in delivering its message in a concise manner. It is a masterpiece that deserves excellence awards and standing ovation.

Not for the faint hearted.

I hit on the play button out of curiosity not knowing that it would be too intense for my faint heart. To be honest, these types of genre aren’t really my thing but it was made in such a way that would capture and retain the audience’s attention. It’s dark and gritty with touches of comedy. It’s a good thing they added a lot of funny parts because I probably wouldn’t be able to continue watching if it’s purely action, suspense and drama. I had to pause watching several times though because I needed to catch my breath and also to gather courage because the story itself is just too heart-breaking. The first few episodes already felt a bit heavy but the funny and investigative scenes balanced the watching experience. I also noticed that they were careful in showing the disconcerting scenes because if not, it would feel too heavy and disturbing for the audience. They gradually built the intensity though and saved the most intense and heart-breaking scenes in the last 2 episodes. I won’t bother looking for plot holes or anything to criticize because we know how dangerous these missions could be. One wrong move or negligence can cost the life of a person. Also, the individual stories of the deserters in each of the episodes are not something to be taken lightly. These may be depictions but it is a well-known fact that such injustices like corruption, bullying and harassment exist in this world.

What stood out:

Jung Hae In is undeniably one of the finest and talented actors in South Korea but he isn’t the only one worth praising in this show. What made this series stand out is the collective excellence and effort of everyone involved in making it. The acting, directing, cinematography, OST - everything was well-made and has this movie-like quality. Koo Kyo-hwan added flair and lightness to the show with his comedic scenes and amazing chemistry with Jung Hae In and the other actors. He is probably one the funniest guys I’ve ever seen. Just the way he talks made me laugh :D. The supporting actors, even those with the smallest appearances, also played their roles perfectly. I also noted and liked that they casted lesser known actors for some of the roles because this makes the show more relatable.

Conclusion:

If I were to describe this series in a few words, it would be intense and heart-breaking that would leave you out of words. I see it as a bold move that intends to make a difference in a corrupted society that is either blind, afraid or refuses to change.