Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)

Synopsis

Kim Shin was a brilliant general of the Goryeo dynasty in the 10th century. After winning a decisive victory, he is betrayed by the young king he placed on the throne and murdered along with his soldiers. As he dies, an invisible sword is lodged in his chest and he is cursed by God to become an immortal goblin (dokkaebi). For nine hundred years, Kim Shin wanders through the ages, endowed with supernatural powers but unable to die, condemned to watch everyone he loves disappear.

In the contemporary era, Kim Shin meets Ji Eun-tak, an orphaned high school student who can see ghosts — a sign that she is the 'goblin's bride,' the only person who can remove the sword and grant him eternal peace. But removing the sword means the goblin's death. Kim Shin lives with Wang Yeo, the Grim Reaper, a supernatural being who guides the souls of the dead and has lost all memory of his human life. Wang Yeo falls in love with Sunny, the owner of a chicken restaurant, who turns out to be linked to the tragic past of Kim Shin and Wang Yeo.

The fates of these four characters intertwine in a narrative that navigates between present and historical past, between everyday humor and cosmic tragedy. Kim Shin must choose between his desire for eternal rest and his growing love for Eun-tak.

Themes and Influence

Goblin explores mortality, destiny, and sacrifice through the lens of Korean mythology. The work questions the value of eternal life against ephemeral love and celebrates the beauty of fleeting moments. Themes of reincarnation, memory, and forgiveness run throughout the narrative. The drama profoundly influenced the aesthetics of subsequent K-dramas with its polished cinematography, its Canadian locations (Quebec), and its masterful use of the soundtrack. The song 'Stay With Me' by Chanyeol and Punch became an anthem of K-drama culture.