#4 - Signal (시그널, 2016)
Signal (시그널, 2016)
Review by Ahin Kim (Monash University)
Signal official poster. Image source: IMDB
Detectives from the present-day fight to uncover longtime unsolved cases with the help of a detective from the past.
The Korean television series, Signal was released in 2016, directed by Kim Won-Seok. The show mainly focuses on the genres of crime and mystery, featuring gruesome events, such as kidnappings and serial killings, some of which are based on real life events. Yet, the use of genre-bending, allows different genres, such as fantasy and thriller to be incorporated into the show. This distinguishes Signal from other criminal dramas and attracts different audiences in to enjoy the show.
Signal focuses on three main characters: the witty and smug criminal profiler, Park Hae-Young (played by Lee Je-Hoon), the hardworking and kind-hearted detective, Detective Jae-Han (played by Cho Inswing), and the hostile and strong, Detective Soo-Hyun (played by Kim Hye-Soo). The depth and effort put into the characters cause the audience to become invested, often sympathizing for the characters as they put their lives in danger solving cases. We learn that under the surface of his arrogance, Park Hae-Young struggles to be recognized as a criminal profiler amongst cops and detectives. Meanwhile, Detective Soo-Hyun is still grieving her long-lost colleague, Chon Jin-Woong, who disappeared 15 years previously under mysterious circumstances.
The events of the show are triggered when Park Hae-Young finds a walkie-talkie, which allows him to communicate with the past. On the other side is Detective Jae-Han in the year 2000. This prompts the investigation of numerous cold cases with Detective Soo-Hyun as their leader. This unlikely trio work together to solve the crimes, changing the events of the past and the present day.
One case that is especially interesting features the kidnapping and murder of a girl. We learn that this girl was a classmate of Park Hae-Young when he was in elementary school, and he witnessed the kidnapper. Despite his desperate attempts to inform the police, the child is dismissed as the police try to cover up the case quickly. 15 years later, Park Hae-Young who still distrusts the police force must work with them to find the kidnapper.
Signal became a great success in Korea, hitting a viewership of 12.55%. The reasons behind this success could be attributed to the three well-known actors Cho Jin-Woong, Lee Je-Hoon, and Kim Hye-Soo. The phenomenal performances of these actors brought life to the characters and drew widespread attention. Another reason for its success may be the use of genre-bending. One of the most popular genres in Korean dramas is fantasy. The switching between two time periods and changes to people’s memory created a dream-like effect, elevating the crime genre.
The great response from viewers for season one of Signal created strong anticipation for the second season. The clever plot-twists, suspense and incredible story telling gripped the audience in. In addition, the cliff hanger at the end of the show (that is- what happened to Detective Jae-Han?) provoked much speculation amongst fans. The second season, which was originally planned for 2021 was postponed and the next premiere date has yet to be released.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the next season, season one of Signal is a standalone, exceptional crime drama.
Check out the official trailer here and the series is available on Netflix.
Ahin Kim/Monash University ©, please do not reproduce without prior permission.
For details, contact MUKSRH andy.jackson@monash.edu