The Glory is a South Korean revenge psychological thriller television series that premiered on Netflix on December 30, 2022.
Created by Kim Eun-sook and directed by Ahn Gil-ho, the series consists of 16 episodes divided into two parts, with Part 1 airing from December 30, 2022, to January 2023, and Part 2 following from March 10, 2023. The show features an ensemble cast including Song Hye-kyo, Lee Do-hyun, Lim Ji-yeon, Yeom Hye-ran, Park Sung-hoon, and Jung Sung-il.
The narrative centers around Moon Dong-eun (played by Song Hye-kyo), a former victim of school bullying who meticulously plans her revenge against her tormentors. After years of suffering in silence and enduring horrific abuse during her high school years, Dong-eun takes a job as a homeroom teacher at the elementary school attended by the child of her primary bully. This strategic move allows her to execute her revenge while confronting the past that has haunted her for so long. The series draws inspiration from real-life incidents of bullying in South Korean schools, which adds a layer of authenticity to its portrayal of trauma and vengeance.
The Glory received critical acclaim for its writing, direction, and performances, particularly praising Song Hye-kyo's portrayal of the lead character. The series was recognized at the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards, winning three awards including Best Drama and Best Actress for Song Hye-kyo. Following its release, it quickly gained popularity on Netflix, ranking among the top shows globally shortly after both parts aired.
The production of The Glory was handled by Hwa&Dam Pictures and Studio Dragon. The series was pre-produced entirely before its release, allowing for a cohesive storytelling experience across its episodes. The show's themes of bullying and revenge resonate deeply with viewers, making it a significant entry in the genre of psychological thrillers in South Korean television.