Newtopia Episodes 1 & 2 Recap: Zombie Outbreak, Romance, & Survival in Seoul

Prime Video’s Newtopia brings a fresh twist to the zombie horror genre, blending the intensity of an apocalyptic thriller with the emotional depth of a K-drama. While the stakes are high, the show maintains an air of levity without diminishing the terror of the undead. 

The first two episodes introduce a gripping narrative filled with romance, tension, and unexpected alliances, setting the stage for an emotional and action-packed journey.

Jae-yoon & Young-ju’s Relationship hits a Crossroads

Newtopia begins with soldier Lee Jae-yoon (Park Jeong-min) and engineer Kang Young-ju (Jisoo) struggling to keep their relationship afloat. Jae-yoon, stationed at A Tower in Seoul’s Gangnam district, is eager to reunite with Young-ju after his military service. However, his unpredictable schedule and lack of communication drive a wedge between them. 

Young-ju, pressured by societal expectations, questions their future together—especially as her senior, Jin-wook, expresses romantic interest in her. As tensions rise, Young-ju suggests a break, and Jae-yoon reluctantly agrees, sending her a heartfelt voice message. 

This prompts Young-ju to meet him in person for a final conversation. Accompanied by Jin-wook, she sets out for A Tower—unaware that their reunion is about to be interrupted by a catastrophe.

A Zombie Outbreak Turns Seoul into a war zone

Meanwhile, Jae-yoon’s military unit is stationed atop A Tower, with the Eden Hotel located beneath it. Hotel manager Arron Park, VIP lounge worker Oh Soo-jung, and Chef Jung go about their routines, unaware of the disaster brewing outside.

The first warning signs emerge when Jae-yoon spots erratic behavior in a nearby building, but before he can make sense of it, a plane crashes into the street below, sending shockwaves through the city. What initially seems like a terrorist attack turns out to be the beginning of a zombie outbreak. 

Within moments, the virus spreads inside the hotel, and chaos erupts as people transform into bloodthirsty creatures. At the military base, soldiers receive orders to remain on high alert. 

When Jae-yoon and his companion In-ho fail to return from a supply run, their superiors consider launching a rescue mission. Unbeknownst to them, the duo is trapped inside the hotel, desperately fighting for survival.

Young-ju’s Desperate Journey to Safety

As Young-ju makes her way to A Tower, she and Jin-wook encounter a pedestrian who suddenly collapses in front of their car. Jin-wook panics, revealing his cowardly nature, while Young-ju takes charge, attempting to help. Their path soon crosses with Alex, a wealthy CEO, just as the city descends into mayhem. Car crashes, stampedes, and an ever-growing horde of zombies force them to scatter.

Young-ju briefly takes shelter at a salon, forming a bond with the hairdresser, while Jin-wook faces humiliation and danger when he’s robbed at gunpoint. He’s later saved by Young-ju, proving that despite their strained relationship, she remains the stronger of the two.

With Seoul in chaos, Young-ju’s mother urges her to find Jae-yoon, believing the soldiers will keep her safe. Jin-wook, seeking protection, agrees to accompany her. As they make their way toward A Tower, their chances of survival hang by a thread. Meanwhile, Jae-yoon, In-ho, Soo-jung, and Chef Jung brace for impact as a glass barrier—separating them from a swarm of zombies—threatens to shatter at any moment.

What’s next for Jae-yoon & Young-ju in Newtopia?

The first two episodes of Newtopia establish a gripping blend of romance and survival horror. With Jae-yoon and Young-ju desperately trying to reunite, and the city overrun by the undead, their fate remains uncertain. Will their love endure, or will they be forced to make heartbreaking sacrifices?

Where can you Watch Newtopia?

The first two episodes premiered on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, and new episodes will now be released every Friday. Episode three is set to air on Feb. 14, 2025, in South Korea on Coupang Play and will stream globally on Prime Video across 240+ regions.