Nine Puzzles is a gripping psychological thriller from Hulu that follows a brilliant criminal profiler as she reopens the chilling case of her sister’s murder. As she pieces together a trail of hidden clues, secrets begin to unravel—challenging everything she thought she knew. With sharp storytelling and dark twists, the series pulls viewers into a haunting puzzle of truth, trauma, and justice.
Review
Nine Puzzles is a compelling psychological mystery thriller that weaves a complex narrative around a series of murders linked by enigmatic puzzle pieces. The series follows Yoon E-na (Kim Da-mi), a criminal profiler tormented by the unsolved murder of her uncle, which she witnessed as a child but cannot fully remember. A decade later, a new wave of killings surfaces, each accompanied by identical puzzle pieces, prompting E-na to revisit her past and collaborate with Detective Kim Han-saem (Son Suk-ku), who has long suspected her involvement in her uncle's death.
The dynamic between E-na and Han-saem is a central strength of the series. Their initial antagonism evolves into a begrudging partnership, with their contrasting personalities—E-na's childlike whimsy and Han-saem's blunt, obsessive nature—creating a compelling tension that drives the narrative forward. Their interactions are marked by sharp dialogue and a palpable sense of mistrust, which gradually gives way to mutual respect as they work together to unravel the mystery.
Kim Da-mi delivers a standout performance as E-na, capturing the character's vulnerability and determination. Her portrayal adds depth to a role that could easily have veered into cliché, imbuing E-na with a sense of authenticity and emotional complexity. Son Suk-ku complements her performance with a portrayal of Han-saem that balances cynicism with a hidden layer of empathy, making their partnership both believable and engaging.
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| Kim Da-mi in Nine Puzzles — holding a piece of the puzzle, a clue that could unlock the mystery. |
The series' pacing is deliberate, allowing for the gradual buildup of suspense and the careful unraveling of clues. However, some viewers may find the slow progression challenging, especially those accustomed to faster-paced thrillers. The conclusion, while satisfying in its resolution of the central mystery, leaves certain aspects open-ended, suggesting potential for future exploration in subsequent seasons.
In summary, Nine Puzzles is a thoughtfully crafted thriller that combines intricate storytelling with strong character development. Its exploration of trauma, memory, and trust adds layers of depth to the genre, making it a standout addition to the 2025 K-drama landscape.
Information
Nine Puzzles is a South Korean mystery thriller series directed by Yoon Jong-bin and written by Lee Eun-mi. The 11-episode series premiered on May 21, 2025, on Hulu and Disney+. The first six episodes were released on the premiere date, followed by three more on May 28. The final two episodes were released on June 4, 2025. The main cast includes Kim Da-mi as a criminal profiler and Son Suk-ku as a detective.
From Kim Da-mi to K-Drama Love: I started watching Korean films and series through one of Kim Da-mi's movies, and I quickly became a fan. She played a significant role in sparking my interest in the Korean entertainment industry.
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