Netflix may not be known as the best place for Westerns, but it loves stories about the frontier. The platform has popular Western shows like The Power of the Dog from 2021 and all six seasons of Longmire.
It has also shown interest in famous Old West figures with recent series like Wyatt Earp and the Cowboy War and its worldwide release of Wynonna Earp.
These newer stories push the boundaries of Western drama and how it represents people. However, these series can overshadow some of Netflix’s most underrated Western stories. One hidden treasure you should not miss is the 2023 Korean action drama Song of the Bandits.
What Is Song of the Bandits?
Song of the Bandits is a unique Western story created by Han Jung-hoon and Hwang Jun-hyuk. The series takes place in Korea during the early 1900s when Japan occupied the country. Instead of a classic Western setting, it is located in Gando, a lawless area that is now part of Northeastern China.
In this region, bandits, oppressed locals—called Joseons after the Joseon Dynasty that Japan overthrew—and Japan’s harsh colonial authorities often clash. The series is full of action, strong drama, and fast-paced storytelling.
It has nine episodes and tells a powerful story that can inspire viewers. However, when it was released, it did not attract a large audience. Still, with a skilled cast and important themes, Song of the Bandits is a hidden gem that deserves more attention from fans of Westerns.
The Plot Overview
The story centers around Lee Yoon, played by Kim Nam-gil. Lee Yoon is a former Korean slave who joined the Japanese army with his former master, Lee Gwang-il (Lee Hyun-wook), at the beginning of Japan’s occupation.
Lee Yoon is haunted by the terrible things he did to Korean independence fighters while serving in the army. In Episode 1, he leaves his current post to go north to Gando. He wants to surrender his life to General Choi Choong-soo (Yoo Jae-myung), a former Independence General, as a way to make up for his past crimes.
The meeting between Lee Yoon and General Choi is filled with tension. They have a bitter history, and the past weighs heavily on them both. However, their reunion is interrupted when bandits attack the general’s village. Lee Yoon quickly takes action to rescue a girl captured during the raid.
This moment sets the tone for the series, highlighting themes of redemption and the fight against oppression. General Choi suggests that instead of dying for his sins, Lee Yoon can make amends by protecting the Joseon people.
This idea leads to the formation of their own group of bandits in Episode 2. This setup pays homage to classic Western team-ups like The Magnificent Seven. They gather a team of desperate outlaws to defend General Choi’s village and use guerrilla tactics against the Japanese forces.
As Lee Yoon’s group eliminates a Japanese garrison, the conflict expands. The bandits face challenges from Korea’s Independence Army, other outlaws, and Japanese forces competing for crucial railroad funds.
As the story unfolds, Lee Yoon finds himself facing off against Lee Gwang-il, who has taken on the name Major Miura Shohei in the Japanese army. The rivalry between the two men highlights the clash of cultures and classes. Gwang-il is tasked with protecting the funds, leading to thrilling confrontations between him and Lee Yoon.
The Themes of Redemption and Identity
At its core, Song of the Bandits is about redemption and the search for identity in a time of turmoil. Lee Yoon’s journey is a quest to make peace with his past.
He is deeply affected by his actions during his time in the Japanese army and seeks to find a way to atone. His journey north to Gando is not just a physical journey; it is a metaphorical journey toward forgiveness and understanding.
As Lee Yoon confronts his past, he also grapples with his identity. He is a man caught between two worlds: his past as a slave and soldier and his present as a bandit fighting for his people. This internal struggle is a powerful aspect of the series and is reflected in the relationships he forms with other characters.
General Choi Choong-soo represents another aspect of identity. He is a leader who once fought for freedom but now feels the weight of his failures.
His apology to Eon-Nyeon at the start of Episode 6 reveals the deep sorrow and regret that haunts him. He recognizes that his generation has left a ruined state for the next generation, and he is desperate to change that.
The Role of Women in Song of the Bandits
Song of the Bandits also features strong female characters who play essential roles in the story. Seohyun’s character, Nam Hee-shin, and Lee Ho-jung’s character, Eon-Nyeon, are two standout figures in the series. Their stories reflect the independence and courage of women in the context of the Western genre.
Nam Hee-shin is a former Joseon noble who tries to support Korea’s Independence Army from within the Japanese government. Her character represents the struggles of women in a male-dominated society. She faces numerous challenges but remains determined to fight for her country.
Her relationship with Lee Yoon adds another layer to the story. As they face their complicated feelings, they both seek redemption and understanding.
Eon-Nyeon’s character adds depth to the narrative as well. Initially hired by Gwang-il to kill Lee Yoon, she undergoes significant growth throughout the series. As she forms a bond with Lee Yoon and General Choi, she finds a new sense of family and purpose. Her acceptance of them as her chosen family creates a compelling redemption arc within the harsh reality of Gando.
Action Sequences and Western Tropes
One of the most exciting aspects of Song of the Bandits is its thrilling action sequences. The creators, Jung-hoon and Jun-hyuk, skillfully blend traditional Western aesthetics with K-drama elements. The result is a unique viewing experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Lee Yoon’s gunfight at the end of Episode 1 is a standout scene. It is a brutal fight that showcases the harsh reality of the world the characters inhabit. The intensity and violence of the scene mirror the feelings of guilt and anger that Lee Yoon carries with him. Similarly, Episode 4 features a high-stakes attack on an armored van that combines practical effects with the urgency of the political narrative.
The series also includes classic Western tropes, such as showdowns and standoffs. Lee Yoon’s duel with Gwang-il in Episode 9 is reminiscent of iconic desert confrontations. This scene highlights the protagonist’s quick draw and skill in combat, drawing comparisons to famous Western characters like Val Kilmer’s Doc Holliday in Tombstone.
Political and Cultural Commentary
Beyond the action, Song of the Bandits addresses significant political and cultural issues. The series does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities faced by the Joseon people under Japanese rule. It offers a poignant look at the impact of imperialism and the struggles of a divided society.
The series references historical events, such as Korea’s March First Movement in 1919, but takes creative liberties in its storytelling. The portrayal of the Gurye Incident, which results in the destruction of Choi Choong-soo’s village and the loss of his family, is particularly striking. This moment serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during this dark period in history.
Yoo Jae-myung’s performance as Choi Choong-soo is especially powerful. He embodies the grief and despair felt by survivors of colonial rule. The characters’ conversations reflect the weight of history on their shoulders. Choi’s apology to Eon-Nyeon encapsulates the deep sorrow of a generation that feels responsible for the suffering of its children.
The Complexity of Relationships
The relationships in Song of the Bandits are another focal point of the story. The love triangle between Lee Yoon, Hee-shin, and Gwang-il adds emotional depth to the narrative. As the characters show their feelings, they also confront the harsh realities of their world.
Lee Yoon’s past as a soldier complicates his relationship with Hee-shin. Their shared history adds layers to their interactions, and the tension between them creates a compelling narrative thread.
Hee-shin is engaged to Gwang-il, which further complicates the situation. This love triangle brings a classic K-drama element into the mix, balancing romance with the deadly backdrop of historical conflict.
Eon-Nyeon’s journey also reflects the complexity of relationships. Initially hired to kill Lee Yoon, she undergoes a transformation as she bonds with him and General Choi.
Her struggle to reconcile her past with her new family dynamic adds another layer of depth to her character. This transformation highlights the series’ themes of forgiveness and the importance of chosen family.
The Challenges of Redemption
Redemption is a central theme throughout Song of the Bandits. Lee Yoon’s journey is not just about seeking forgiveness but also about understanding his own identity. The weight of his past actions hangs heavily on him, and he grapples with the consequences of his choices.
As the series progresses, Lee Yoon faces numerous challenges. He must confront the reality of his actions and their impact on those around him. His desire to protect the Joseon people becomes a driving force in the narrative. This transformation from a man burdened by guilt to a hero fighting for his people is compelling and resonates deeply with audiences.
The series also highlights the complexity of redemption. It is not a simple process, and characters must show their pasts while forging new paths. Eon-Nyeon’s acceptance of Lee Yoon and General Choi as her family demonstrates the power of forgiveness. She chooses to forgive instead of seeking revenge, reflecting the series’ overarching message of unity.
The Flaws and Shortcomings
Despite its many strengths, Song of the Bandits is not without flaws. The series has moments where the tone shifts unexpectedly. After the intense and dark beginnings, some later episodes adopt a slower, more comedic atmosphere. This shift can feel jarring and disrupt the full flow of the narrative.
Additionally, the love triangle between Lee Yoon, Hee-shin, and Gwang-il is not adequately resolved by the finale. The lack of closure leaves viewers wanting more and raises questions about the characters’ futures. This open-ended conclusion may hint at the possibility of a second season, but it can also be frustrating for audiences seeking a definitive resolution.
The Impact of Song of the Bandits
Despite its imperfections, Song of the Bandits remains a standout entry in the Western genre. The series delivers nonstop action sequences that keep viewers engaged. The intense gunfights and chase scenes are expertly choreographed, providing a thrilling viewing experience.
Moreover, the series does not shy away from tackling deep social commentary. It shows what it means for a people to survive under colonial oppression while advocating for forgiveness and unity. The characters’ struggles and triumphs resonate with audiences and offer a poignant look at the cost of imperialism.
The show’s unique blend of traditional Western elements with K-drama storytelling creates a fresh take on the genre. Fans of both Westerns and historical dramas will find much to appreciate in Song of the Bandits. It challenges the notion that viewers must only flock to the most popular titles on streaming platforms to discover attracting stories.
Conclusion
Song of the Bandits is a hidden gem in Netflix’s catalog, deserving of recognition for its unique storytelling and strong performances. The series brings together action, drama, and important themes that resonate with viewers. As it shows redemption, identity, and the struggles of a divided people, it attracts audiences with its powerful narrative.
The show’s ability to blend traditional Western aesthetics with K-drama elements sets it apart from other entries in the genre. It offers a fresh perspective on the Western narrative while remaining rooted in the historical context of Korea’s struggle for independence.
Song of the Bandits proves that there is much more to discover in the Westerns world, and its engaging storytelling and rich character development make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. As the series continues to gain recognition, it serves as a reminder that powerful stories can come from unexpected places.
