Vincenzo

If you're looking for a K-drama that absolutely revels in its dark humor and delivers satisfying revenge with panache, Vincenzo is it. This isn't your typical hero's journey; instead, we follow Vincenzo Cassano, a former mafia consigliere who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty, or rather, elegantly stained with the blood of his enemies. He's not exactly good, but his targets, the nefarious Babel Group, are unequivocally worse. This central tension, the idea that only evil can truly punish evil, is what drives the entire series and makes it so compelling.

Song Joong-ki as Vincenzo is simply magnetic. He plays the cold, calculating, and impossibly stylish lawyer with a nuanced intensity that makes you root for him despite his morally ambiguous methods. You can feel his anger after the assassination of the human rights lawyer, and it fuels his ruthless pursuit of justice, or perhaps, retribution. He's perfectly complemented by Jeon Yeo-been as Hong Cha-young, whose fierce determination and sharp wit make her an ideal partner in crime. Their dynamic, initially antagonistic, evolves into a truly formidable alliance that's a joy to watch.

The show masterfully balances its genres. One moment you're laughing out loud at the quirky residents of Geumga Plaza and their eccentricities, and the next, you're on the edge of your seat during a thrilling action sequence. The dialogue is sharp, often laced with a dry wit that underscores the dark comedy, preventing the noir elements from becoming too heavy. It's this blend that makes it stand out; it never takes itself too seriously while still delivering high stakes and genuine emotional impact.

While the series is largely set in Seoul, the production also takes us to some beautiful spots in Chungcheongbuk-do. The scenic mountain ranges around Sujupalbong, including the striking Sujupalbong Suspension Bridge, provide a gorgeous backdrop that contrasts sharply with the gritty urban revenge plot. You can almost feel the peaceful atmosphere of Chungju Central Tower Historic Park even amidst the drama's intense narrative. This contrast adds another layer to the show's aesthetic appeal.

Ultimately, if you're someone who enjoys a story where the bad guys truly get what's coming to them, delivered with a healthy dose of style, wit, and a touch of the theatrical, then this tvN series is absolutely for you. It's a satisfying tale of retribution that doesn't pull its punches, and it's a wild ride from start to finish.

If you, like me, were captivated by the stylish yet ruthless world of Vincenzo, you probably remember the moments of unexpected beauty that punctuated the dark humor and intense action. While much of the series takes place in the fictional Geumga Plaza, some of its most picturesque scenes were actually filmed in Chungcheongbuk-do, specifically around the city of Chungju. It's a perfect little getaway if you want to experience a slice of the show's aesthetic in a serene, natural setting.

Our first stop takes us to Sujupalbong. This area, famous for its dramatic mountain range, provided a stunning backdrop for some of the show's outdoor sequences. You'll find yourself surrounded by incredible natural beauty, making it easy to imagine Vincenzo Cassano himself taking a moment of quiet contemplation here. It's truly a spot that showcases Korea's scenic splendor, and it's popular for good reason. Just a short distance away, and really, you can't miss it, is the Sujupalbong Suspension Bridge.

This bridge offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the river winding below. If you're into photography, especially during autumn, this is your spot. The vibrant fall colors against the dramatic landscape are simply unforgettable. I can just picture one of the more reflective scenes from the series being filmed right here, with the vastness of nature contrasting Vincenzo's intricate plans. It’s a great place to clear your head and soak in the atmosphere, perhaps even pondering the intricate justice served in the show.

After taking in the views and maybe getting a few dramatic photos of your own, head over to the Chungju Central Tower Historic Park. This park offers a peaceful respite and was also used as a filming location for the tvN series. It's a lovely place to unwind, stroll around, and enjoy the tranquil scenery. The park's calm ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon, or even a date, echoing the occasional tender or reflective moments we saw from the characters in the show. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, just enjoying the quiet and remembering your favorite parts of the show. All these locations are quite close to each other, making for a manageable and very scenic day trip from Seoul.

Vincenzo is one of those dramas that sticks with you long after the final credits roll. It's a wild, 20-episode ride that somehow manages to balance laugh-out-loud dark comedy with genuinely brutal noir elements. Song Joong-ki as the titular mafia lawyer is just magnetic. He plays this cold, calculating character who still manages to charm the pants off everyone, even as he's orchestrating elaborate acts of vengeance. You can't help but root for him, even when he's doing things that are decidedly not heroic.

The premise itself is fantastic: a Korean-Italian consigliere, betrayed by his own, comes back to Korea looking for hidden gold under Geumga Plaza. But then the corrupt Babel Group steps in, threatening to demolish everything, and suddenly Vincenzo has a new target. The show really hits its stride when he teams up with Hong Cha-young, played by Jeon Yeo-been, and the eccentric residents of Geumga Plaza. Their dynamic is pure gold, providing a much-needed comedic counterpoint to the darker themes.

What I loved most is how it embraces its tagline, "Only evil can punish evil." There's no pretense of a hero here; it's about a man using his unique skills to fight a system that's utterly broken. The dialogue is sharp, the action sequences are thrilling, and honestly, the fashion is impeccable. While much of the series takes place in the bustling city, the occasional scenic shots, like those around Sujupalbong or the peaceful Chungju Central Tower Historic Park, offer a beautiful visual contrast. Even the Sujupalbong Suspension Bridge, with its stunning mountain and river views, provides a memorable backdrop.

With a fantastic 8.5/10 rating, it's clear this series resonated with many. If you're looking for a crime drama that doesn't shy away from dark humor and delivers a satisfying, if unconventional, take on justice, this is definitely for you. However, if you prefer your protagonists to be unequivocally good or if you're not a fan of stories that walk the line between satire and serious action, you might find its tone a bit jarring. For me, it's a memorable watch that proves revenge can indeed be a dish best served stylishly.