Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021) is a chilling, atmospheric prequel to Netflix’s acclaimed Korean zombie-political thriller Kingdom, revealing the tragic origin of the resurrection plant and the woman whose pain ignited a kingdom-wide catastrophe. Directed by Kim Seong-hun and starring Jun Ji-hyun in a haunting, career-defining role, this special episode blends psychological horror, historical intrigue, and icy revenge into a stunning tale of loss and fury.

Set in the harsh, unforgiving northern borderlands, the story follows Ashin, a mysterious woman raised on the margins of society between the Joseon Dynasty and hostile tribes. When her village is destroyed and her family betrayed, Ashin uncovers the dark secret of the saengsacho plant—a flower capable of raising the dead. As she journeys from grief to wrath, she becomes both the keeper and wielder of a terrifying weapon: undeath itself.

Tense, beautifully shot, and emotionally devastating, Ashin of the North is not just a side story—it’s the spark that sets the entire Kingdom series ablaze.