Seoul Station is a gripping South Korean animated horror film directed by Yeon Sang-ho, serving as a prequel to the critically acclaimed Train to Busan. The film unfolds against the backdrop of a bustling Seoul, where a mysterious zombie outbreak begins to spread rapidly. Through the chaos, the story primarily follows three characters: a homeless man, his runaway daughter Hye-sun, and her estranged father Suk-gyu, who is desperately searching for her.
The film delivers a tense and socially charged narrative, exploring themes of societal neglect, poverty, and human resilience. The animation style is dark and gritty, amplifying the sense of dread and desperation as the city falls apart. As the characters navigate the streets overrun by the undead, the story reveals not just the horrors of a zombie apocalypse but also the cracks in humanity’s moral fabric.
Though it lacks the emotional depth and pacing of Train to Busan, Seoul Station effectively builds its tension and delivers a raw, unflinching critique of social inequality. It’s a must-watch for fans of animated horror and those curious about the deeper societal commentary within Yeon Sang-ho’s zombie universe.
Seoul Station (2016) Review
Seoul Station (2016), directed by Yeon Sang-ho, serves as a harrowing prequel to his acclaimed live-action film Train to Busan. This animated zombie thriller delves into the chaos of an undead outbreak, but it’s more than just a horror film. It offers a sobering critique of societal issues like homelessness, class disparity, and human apathy.
The story centers on Hye-sun, a young runaway entangled in a fight for survival alongside her estranged boyfriend and father. As the infection spreads through Seoul’s underbelly, Yeon masterfully builds tension with gritty visuals and unsettling atmosphere. The animation style, though not as polished as mainstream works, enhances the bleak and claustrophobic tone, making every alley and corridor feel alive with menace.
The film’s social commentary is its strongest suit. It boldly highlights how society marginalizes the most vulnerable, emphasizing how the homeless become invisible victims, both in life and during crises. However, the character development feels somewhat limited compared to Train to Busan, leaving less emotional impact.
Despite this, Seoul Station is a gripping and thought-provoking entry in the zombie genre. Its raw portrayal of human selfishness and societal neglect lingers long after the credits roll, making it a must-watch for fans of dark, socially conscious horror.
Seoul Station (2016) Trailer
Seoul Station (2016) Details
MOVE_NAME: SeoulStation
DURATION: 92min
IMDB_RATING: 6.1
GENRE: Animation
DIRECTOR: Sang-hoYeon
CAST: RyuSeung-ryong
PRODUCTION: StudioDadaShow
LANGUAGE: Korean
SINGER_NAME: N/A
BUDGET: Low
RELEASE_DATE: 17/8/2016
Seoul Station (2016) Screenshot
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