Netflix Releases Korean Psychological Thriller 'Notes from the Last Row' with Choi Min-sik

Netflix released the six-episode Korean psychological thriller series "Notes from the Last Row" on June 26, 2026, marking veteran actor Choi Min-sik's return to a major role after three years. The series pairs Choi Min-sik with rising star Choi Hyun-wook and is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kim Gyu-tae, known for works including "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo," "Our Blues," and "The Trunk."

The psychological thriller is adapted from Spanish playwright Juan Mayorga's theatrical work "El chico de la última fila," which was previously staged in South Korea in late 2024. The screenplay was written by Jang Myung-woo, who previously adapted "My Mother, the Mermaid." The narrative centers on Heo Mun-oh, a cynical literature professor portrayed by Choi Min-sik, who is a failed novelist trapped in a two-decade-long writer's block. His stagnant existence transforms when he discovers Lee Kang, a mysterious engineering student played by Choi Hyun-wook, who sits in the back row of the classroom and possesses exceptional natural writing talent.

Mun-oh offers Lee Kang intensive private instruction, initially establishing a promising mentor-student relationship. However, the dynamic gradually deteriorates into dangerous obsession. Mun-oh becomes increasingly captivated by Lee Kang's narratives as his judgment becomes clouded. The conflict intensifies when Mun-oh discovers that Lee Kang's novels are not fiction but detailed observations of real people in his life, exposing secrets of his closest friend and rival, as well as revisiting his first love from the past. A mysterious fire incident is introduced in the narrative, raising questions about Lee Kang's true motivations for accepting the private lessons.

The series explores the blurred boundary between reality and imagination, examining themes of unfulfilled ambition, the dangerous dynamics of mentorship, and the destructive power of creative obsession. The supporting cast includes veteran actors Huh Joon-ho, Kim Yunjin, and Jin Kyung. All six episodes are now globally available on Netflix, with the complete series released simultaneously to international audiences.