Jo Jung Suk stars as a devoted father hiding his zombie daughter, played by Choi Yu Ri, in the upcoming South Korean comedy film Zombie Daughter, set for release in July 2025. Based on a popular webioon, the movie blends humor and family bonds as it follows a father’s struggle to protect his infected daughter in a quiet countryside village.
Film Overview and Plot Details
Zombie Daughter is a live-action adaptation of the Naver webtoon My Daughter Is a Zombie by Lee Yun Chang, serialized from August 2018 to June 2020. The story centers on Jung Hwan, played by Jo Jung Suk, a father who flees to his mother’s rural home to shield his daughter Soo Ah, portrayed by Choi Yu Ri, after she becomes infected with a zombie virus.
Set one year after a massive zombie outbreak that killed hundreds of thousands, South Korea is declared zombie-free. However, Jung Hwan hides a secret: Soo Ah is the last remaining zombie. When her cravings are managed, she shows signs of regaining her humanity, sparking hope for a normal life. The film explores whether Jung Hwan can keep his daughter’s condition hidden while trying to “tame” her zombie instincts, using his past experience as a wild animal trainer.
The movie combines comedy with emotional family moments. A teaser poster, released in May 2025, shows Jung Hwan anxiously covering Soo Ah’s face as her bloodshot eyes peek out from a hoodie. The caption, “My kid doesn’t bite,” adds a humorous touch, hinting at the challenges of parenting a zombie teenager.
Star-Studded Cast and Their Roles
The film features a talented ensemble cast, bringing depth to the story:
- Jo Jung Suk plays Jung Hwan, the protective father. Known for his roles in Hospital Playlist and Exit, Jo Jung Suk brings his comedic and emotional range to portray a father torn between fear and love.
- Choi Yu Ri stars as Soo Ah, the zombie daughter. A child actress recognized for playing the younger version of Kim Tae Ri in Alienoid, Choi Yu Ri delivers a unique performance as the last zombie.
- Lee Jung Eun portrays Bam Soon, Jung Hwan’s cheerful mother. A veteran actress from Parasite and Miss Night and Day, she teams up with Jung Hwan to protect her granddaughter.
- Cho Yeo Jung plays Yeon Hwa, Jung Hwan’s first love and a teacher in the village. Also from Parasite, Cho Yeo Jung adds a layer of nostalgia and romance.
- Yoon Kyung Ho is Dong Bae, Jung Hwan’s loyal friend, bringing humor and support. He is known for roles in Alienoid and various comedies.
The cast was confirmed in July 2024, with agencies like Jam Entertainment (Jo Jung Suk’s agency) and ANIC ENT (Lee Jung Eun’s agency) stating their actors were reviewing offers positively by June 2024.
Production and Direction
Directed by Pil Gam Sung, Zombie Daughter is his second feature film after Hostage: Missing Celebrity (2021). The movie is produced by Studio N, known for hits like Sweet Home and Unlocked. The script reading and production began accelerating in mid-2024, with a confirmed theatrical release in July 2025.
The webtoon’s success, earning awards like the Korea Creative Content Agency Director’s Award (2019) and the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Award (2022), sets high expectations. An animated series aired on EBS in 2022, further proving the story’s popularity.
Public and Fan Reactions
Fans have expressed excitement online since the cast was announced. On May 1, 2025, posts on X highlighted the teaser poster and July release date, praising Jo Jung Suk’s versatility.
“He’s looking forward to the movie ‘My Daughter Is A Zombie’ starring Jo Jungsuk which will be released this year! He apparently likes actor Jo Jungsuk😍” — @dearyhyeokie
“‘Anak saya ga gigit kok..’ Film Zombie Daughter will tayang pada Juli 2025. Diadaptasi dari Webtoon yang sama, mengisahkan seorang ayah (Jo Jungsuk) yang berusaha meyakinkan orang-orang kalau anaknya yang seorang Zombie (Choi Yuri) tidak berbahaya” — @tang_kira
Netizens have noted the unique blend of horror, comedy, and family drama, with many eager to see Choi Yu Ri’s portrayal of a zombie child.
Why This Film Stands Out
Zombie Daughter offers a fresh take on the zombie genre, focusing on family bonds rather than apocalyptic chaos, unlike films like Train to Busan (2016). The rural setting contrasts with urban zombie stories, emphasizing personal stakes. The webtoon’s mix of humor and heart, combined with a strong cast, promises a balance of laughs and emotional moments.
The film also reunites Parasite stars Lee Jung Eun and Cho Yeo Jung, adding buzz for fans of the Oscar-winning movie. Jo Jung Suk’s comedic timing, seen in Oh My Ghost, pairs well with the story’s lighthearted tone.
As of May 2025, Zombie Daughter is in post-production, with promotional materials like the teaser poster already generating buzz. The film is set to hit South Korean theaters in July 2025, with no confirmed streaming details yet. Fans are eagerly awaiting a trailer to glimpse the chemistry between Jo Jung Suk and Choi Yu Ri.
CREDITS: Naver
