D.P.

An Jun-ho is a young private who gets assigned to D.P., a unit charged with rounding up soldiers who desert. Instead of a straightforward manhunt, he encounters a string of personal stories that reveal how rigid discipline, bullying, economic pressure, and unspoken trauma shape each recruit's choice to leave. Partnered with a jaded veteran, Jun-ho moves from case to case, seeing how the military's systems and small cruelties leave long scars. The series focuses on the human fallout of conscription, keeping its focus on character and consequence rather than sensationalism or neat resolutions.

Created by Kim Bo-tong and Han Jun-hee, D.P. premiered in 2021 on Netflix, quickly reaching international audiences while maintaining a distinctly Korean production and sensibility.

The show stirred conversation in South Korea and beyond about mandatory military service, toxic hierarchy, and mental health, prompting discussions on social media and in opinion pieces, and raising awareness about issues not often shown on mainstream television.

Critics and viewers praised the performances, especially Jung Hae-in and Koo Kyo-hwan, and reviewers highlighted the series' realist tone and moral complexity. With a vote average of 8.01/10 from 251 votes, it resonated with audiences for its unflinching look at institutional pressure, loyalty, and the cost of survival under strict command.

There are no widely reported major international awards tied to the show, though it attracted industry attention and helped spark conversations during awards season in Korea. Its impact has been measured more in cultural discussion and critical recognition than in trophy counts.