If you’re looking for a drama that delivers high-stakes action, emotional depth, and one of the best on-screen bromances, Bloodhounds is the show to watch. From its adrenaline-pumping fight scenes to its heartfelt friendships, this series proves that action-packed storytelling doesn’t have to sacrifice heart.
How I Got Hooked on Bloodhounds
I first discovered Bloodhounds thanks to Woo Do-Hwan taking over my TikTok feed. Seeing his face everywhere made me wonder—who is this guy, and why does he have such an incredible fandom? I looked him up, saw that he starred in Bloodhounds, and—coincidentally—it was already sitting in my Netflix list.
I finally hit play, and I’m so glad I did. This show instantly became one of my favorites. And trust me, I have a lot of favorite K-Dramas.
What Makes Bloodhounds Stand Out?
There’s no shortage of action/crime dramas, but Bloodhounds does things differently:
✔ A fresh take on the action/crime genre – It’s gritty, fast-paced, and never predictable.
✔ Insane fight choreography – Every action scene is brutal, intense, and masterfully shot.
✔ Emotional weight – The fights aren’t just for show; the story hits hard. (Get the tissues ready!)
✔ The character chemistry – The bond between Woo Do-Hwan and Lee Sang-Yi is something special.
That last point? It’s the heart of the show.
Woo Do-Hwan & Lee Sang-Yi: The Ultimate Duo
What makes their chemistry so incredible? It’s hard to put into words, but it just feels real. Their connection on-screen makes you believe they are that close in real life, too (and I really hope they are!).
Their performances? Phenomenal. Both actors completely immersed themselves into these roles, making their emotions raw, intense, and absolutely believable. You don’t just watch their journey—you feel it.
As for my favorite moments between them? I can’t pick. The entire show is one big favorite moment.
The Villains & The Stakes
A good action drama needs great villains, and Bloodhounds delivers.
✔ Were they true threats? Absolutely. The actors played their roles so well, they felt genuinely intimidating.
✔ Did the stakes feel real? Yes, because Bloodhounds is grounded in reality. Loan sharks preying on the vulnerable is something that happens in the real world, making the danger feel personal.
It also highlights the contrast between those who help out of kindness (like Mr. Choi) and those who exploit others for profit.
Where Bloodhounds Falls Short
While I absolutely loved this show, no drama is perfect. Here are a few areas where Bloodhounds could have been stronger:
✖ The villains could have been even more developed – While intimidating, some of them fell into typical action-drama stereotypes rather than feeling fully fleshed out. A little more backstory or motivation would have made them even stronger antagonists.
✖ The pacing is uneven – The show starts off strong, but some episodes slow down significantly, especially when shifting between high-energy action and more emotional moments. While the emotional depth is great, some scenes could have been tighter.
✖ Some side characters are underutilized – The show focuses so much on the main duo that a few supporting characters don’t get the development they deserve. There were moments when I wanted more backstory or depth for certain side roles, but the show kept the focus on the leads.
Final Thoughts: Does It Live Up to the Hype?
100% YES. I would recommend Bloodhounds to anyone and everyone.
But let me warn you—this show isn’t just about high-stakes fights and action-packed scenes. It’s got real emotional weight, and there were moments that hit me so hard, I was in tears. You get so invested in the characters that when things go wrong, it hurts.
However, the slow pacing at times and slightly underdeveloped villains might not work for everyone. If you prefer fast, non-stop action without emotional breaks, you might find some parts drag a little. But if you want a story that balances action with heart, Bloodhounds delivers.
Is Bloodhounds Worth Watching?
✔ Brilliant performances? ✔✔✔
✔ Action-packed, brutal fights? ✔
✔ A gripping story with emotional depth? ✔
✔ An unforgettable bromance? ✔✔✔
If you haven’t watched Season 1 yet, what are you waiting for? With Season 2 confirmed, now is the perfect time to catch up. I’m impatiently waiting for the next season, which is why I keep rewatching Season 1. It’s that good.
⭐ Final Rating: 9/10 – An action-packed drama with heart, though slightly uneven pacing and some underdeveloped side characters hold it back from a perfect score.
Have You Seen Bloodhounds?
If not, be sure to check it out on Netflix! Let’s talk about it in the comments! 👇
Make sure you also check out my review on Woo Do-Hwan’s film, The Divine Fury.