The premiere episode of Hellbound, a Netflix original series, kicks off with a shocking and violent encounter that sets the tone for the rest of the season. The episode begins in a cafe where a group of people are watching a video featuring Jung Jinsu, the charismatic leader of a cult-like group called "The New Truth." He claims that angels are binding people to Hell, and he supports his claims with footage of monstrous creatures wreaking havoc. One man in the cafe, visibly agitated, checks the time and becomes the target of three massive, otherworldly creatures that burst into the cafe. The creatures, which appear to be the prophesied angels, chase him through the city, ultimately tearing him apart in a gruesome display of power.
This brutal opening scene is designed to capture the audience's attention and immerse them in the show's dark and mysterious world. At the police station, the investigators, led by Detective Kyunghun, discuss the incident. They have ample video evidence, but the nature of the crime defies explanation. Kyunghun is particularly interested in Jung Jinsu's video, but his superior dismisses it initially, only to later instruct Kyunghun to look into "The New Truth." The group believes that these supernatural events are God's way of punishing the wicked, but Kyunghun is determined to bring the culprits to justice, regardless of their motives.
As Kyunghun investigates the crime scene, he finds little evidence beyond bloodstains. Meanwhile, Jung Jinsu continues to spread his message, showing videos of criminals meeting their ends as retribution for their sins. He posits that these events are divine interventions, meant to guide humanity towards righteousness.
The narrative then shifts to Detective Kyunghun's personal life. He encounters his daughter, Heejung, who is volunteering for Jung Jinsu's cause. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to Kyunghun's investigation, as he must navigate his professional duties against his personal feelings. Jung Jinsu, who commands respect from his followers, assures Kyunghun that he will prevent Heejung from further involvement.
Jung Jinsu's backstory is revealed through flashbacks. He had once attempted suicide in Tibet, where he encountered the monstrous creatures. Since then, he has dedicated his life to finding signs of God. His conversation with Kyunghun takes a dark turn when he brings up the detective's deceased wife, questioning whether her murderer faced true justice. This knowledge haunts Kyunghun, who is reminded of the inadequacy of the legal system to address such heinous crimes.
The episode also introduces Park Jungja, a woman who is told by a spirit that she has only five days left before she is bound for Hell. Her plight is intertwined with the actions of the Arrowhead, a group that believes they are carrying out God's work by meting out violence against those they deem sinful. They manipulate young adults into committing acts of violence, which they broadcast live online.
The episode concludes with Lawyer Min Hyejin, who is confronted by Park Jungja at her workplace. Park Jungja, now a pawn of "The New Truth," reveals that she has been sent a decree and that Jung Jinsu plans to livestream her descent into Hell. This sets the stage for a conflict between those who seek to exploit the supernatural events for their gain and those who fight for justice and the truth.
Hellbound's first episode is a gripping start to the series, blending elements of horror, mystery, and social commentary. It leaves viewers with a sense of dread and a burning desire to know more about the forces at play in this terrifying new world.