I didn't expect that I would like this drama. At first, it kind of gives you the similar vibes as 'Signal' but as I continue, I was pleasantly surprised with its charms; how it naturally unfolds by giving us a glimpse of crime solving in Korea. How it has evolved and forever changed in criminal profiling, introduced in a classic setting of old age versus new age; Although sometimes it may be seen as a bad cop versus a good cop. The pilot episode was a bit slow and painful to watch to be honest, but believe me it got better as we continue on.

I simply love the subtle way of each main and supporting characters is being portrayed, which include the dynamics of the politics in shaping the future of the newly developed Behavioural Analysis Team (BAT). It doesn't discourage you as it pan out, whether to the unit's advantages or the opposite, but I found myself rooting for them to succeed nonetheless. Yes, I care for them. In my book, if a story like this can pull you into their world, immerse in their emotions and struggles, it's a pretty damn satisfying journey to experience. It reminds me so much of the beginning of my most beloved crime show, Criminal Minds.

Story
It's pretty straightforward as most of the cases were based on true events. This is a realistic investigation story that balances well in their logical problem solving with no over-the-top of emotional turmoil. Their approach is subtly layered with the right amount of emotions, just enough to get you to care about the victims without feeling overwhelmed. And you'll keep yourself rooting for the good guys instead of feeling frustrated even when they get stuck in their investigation or fail to meet your expectations of the outcome. This drama affected me in such a good way, the very opposite of the other usual crime investigation angst.

The story revolves from various views; the BAT itself, the criminals, the Special Crime Squad as well as the reporters or public, which I find very intriguing and interesting. The dynamics between each of them contribute mixed feelings of anticipation, frustration, excitement and disgust but in a subtle way which is surprisingly surreal to me. The show kept us grounded, even with the unimaginable grotesque crimes involved, the burden to unravel such horrendous acts was even bigger to fill in. It led us to think, what makes us human?

But what captivates me the most is how we witnessed and came to understand the evolution in profiling, the dynamics within the police forces and the criminal act itself. Both are developed side by side, echoing with our increased anticipation as viewers of the classic battle of good against evil. Again the show delivers us not only the character development, but how they reacted with its ever changing surroundings. Although it focuses more on the criminal side, the important message is that ‘Through the darkness’ of the criminal’s minds, we must not forget the victims and their loved ones who are the true heroes in the whole story. They are the reason as to why the BAT ever formed and profilers can somehow stay sane and cope with their ever so challenging job. This is like a tribute to those real profilers existed out there in the real world.

Cast
Kim Nam Gil is marvelous as So Ha Yong. His demeanour really makes you curious and sympathetic, as to how he reads, dissects, reacts, interprets and comes to understand the criminal minds as he keeps digging and unraveling the truth and reasoning behind each criminal's act, however twisted it may be. OVERALL, the casting is realistically believable. Down to the portrayal of the criminals itself. It will give you goosebumps.

Music
Pretty decent and suits with crime-theme drama.

Rewatchable?
Yes. It's engaging even if you already knew what would happen.