Newtopia Episode 1 Review: A Somewhat Boring Start

Newtopia is a brand new Prime Video zombie comedy series where recent military joined Lee Jae-yoon and his girlfriend Kang Young-joo find themselves in a mess when they have to find each other in the midst of a zombie outbreak in Seoul. Facing several difficulties along the way, the couple have no choice but to take responsibility and do their best in the circumstances.

The series has 8 episodes and will be released from 07 February 2025 to 21 March 2025. It is based on 인플루엔자 by Han Sang Woon.

Newtopia Episode 1 Recap

The series starts with Jae-yoon getting discharged from the military and it’s clear that he’s ecstatic about it, partly because he will get to meet his girlfriend Young-joo — of course, it’s a dream. Jae-yoon is just getting started in the military. He’s homesick and misses his girlfriend Young-joo, who, however, is more interested in living her life. Jae-yoon is terrible at his job and causes more problems for everyone.

However, one day, while getting scolded by his superiors, Jae-yoon catches a glimpse of the zombie outbreak that is just starting downstairs. Later, Jae-yoon continues to badger Young-joo with phone calls in the middle of work, creating an awkward situation for her. Even her mother is unhappy about Jae-yoon’s incessant calling at odd hours. In the end, frustrated with the accusation, Young-joo breaks up with Jae-yoon.

The breakup is hard on them both, but Young-joo goes out with a work colleague to get over her feelings. In between, Jae-yoon calls, acknowledges her feelings and agrees with the breakup before disconnecting the call. Overcome with emotions, Young-joo makes her way to Jae-yoon’s base. On the way, a man crashes into their car through the windshield, while In-ho and Jae-yoon are shocked to see a plane flying right into their building.

Newtopia Episode 1 Review

I think introductory episodes are always a bit slow, but Newtopia feels more so like that because the humour is very juvenile and boring. Nothing interesting really happened in the episode and everything that we see is quite simple and repeated constantly to create an effect. It doesn’t but I am hopeful for the upcoming action.

Also Read: Buried Hearts: All to Know About Park Hyun-sik and Huh Joon-ho’s Upcoming Political Thriller