As You Stood By (2025) – Korean Thriller | Netflix Nov 7
Prepare for a gripping psychological drama as Netflix presents As You Stood By, a Korean crime thriller premiering on November 7, 2025.
Directed by Lee Jeong-rim and written by Kim Hyo-jeong, the series adapts Hideo Okuda’s acclaimed novel Naomi and Kanako into a chilling story of friendship, desperation, and survival. Produced by Studio S, Ghost Studio, and Mizi Film, this series blends suspense, moral conflict, and emotional intensity in equal measure.
A Tale of Friendship Turned Fatal
As You Stood By follows Eun-su (Jeon So-nee) and Hui-su (Lee Yoo-mi), two ordinary women pushed to their limits by an unforgiving world. Caught in an oppressive environment where survival means either killing or being killed, they make a fateful choice — to take a life. However, as their secret unravels, they find themselves ensnared in a dark web of lies, betrayal, and a cruel twist of fate they never anticipated.
The story powerfully explores the blurred line between victim and perpetrator. Through emotional storytelling and haunting cinematography, the series delves into how extreme circumstances can turn even the kindest souls into something unrecognizable.
The Cast and Performances
The show features a stellar lineup of Korean talent:
- Jeon So-nee delivers a raw and emotionally layered performance as Eun-su, a woman haunted by her choices yet determined to reclaim her life.
- Lee Yoo-mi, known for her roles in Squid Game and All of Us Are Dead, shines as Hui-su, whose quiet demeanor hides a storm of rage and regret.
- Jang Seung-jo and Lee Moo-saeng bring intensity to their roles, adding depth to the moral complexity of the narrative.
- Lee Ho-jung plays Detective Noh Jin-young, whose relentless pursuit of truth adds an extra layer of suspense.
Their performances breathe realism into a world where justice and morality often collide.
Themes and Tone
As You Stood By is not just a crime story—it’s a study of human resilience and ethical conflict. It asks difficult questions: How far can one go to survive? What happens when good intentions lead to irreversible consequences? With each episode, the tension builds, revealing shocking truths that redefine the bond between the two women.
Moreover, the series’ visual tone—dark, atmospheric, and emotionally charged—perfectly complements its psychological depth. Viewers can expect a blend of intense drama, moral ambiguity, and unexpected twists.
Series Details
- Title: As You Stood By
- Language: Korean
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Based on: Naomi and Kanako by Hideo Okuda
- Director: Lee Jeong-rim
- Writer: Kim Hyo-jeong
- Main Cast: Jeon So-nee, Lee Yoo-mi, Jang Seung-jo, Lee Moo-saeng, Lee Ho-jung
- Production Companies: Studio S, Ghost Studio, Mizi Film
- Network: Netflix
- Release Date: November 7, 2025
Why You Should Watch
For fans of character-driven thrillers like My Name, Kill Boksoon, and The Glory, As You Stood By offers an equally captivating experience. It combines gripping storytelling with complex female leads who challenge stereotypes and confront their own darkness. Additionally, the show’s layered writing and meticulous direction ensure a suspenseful ride from start to finish.
