Reincarnation stories are a staple of fantasy romance, but few pull off the 'destined soulmate' trope without losing the modern identity of their heroine. Netflix's Tale of the Nine-Tailed (2020) does exactly that—and it's been criminally overlooked. Written by Han Woo-ri, this two-part K-drama offers a refreshingly strong female lead, high production value, and a love story that spans centuries.
A Heroine Who Refuses to Be a Damsel
Nam Ji-ah (Jo Bo-ah) is a television producer and journalist who investigates urban myths. When she was nine, she believed a nine-tailed fox kidnapped her parents and tried to kill her. For two decades, she's hunted that fox—Lee Yeon (Lee Dong-wook), an ancient gumiho who guards the Baekdudaegan mountain range. But Ji-ah isn't just a vengeful seeker; she's clever, resourceful, and fiercely independent. In the first episode, she tricks Lee Yeon into saving her by jumping off a building, then stabs him with a needle. That's the kind of proactive heroine we love.
Love Across a Thousand Years
Lee Yeon, meanwhile, is a 1,000-year-old god working at the Afterlife Immigration Office. He's been searching for the reincarnation of his first love, Ah-eum, a Joseon-era princess. When he meets Ji-ah, he dismisses her—she doesn't have the signs. But as the series unfolds, Ji-ah is revealed to be Ah-eum's soul reborn. Unlike many reincarnation dramas, Ji-ah doesn't lose herself. She witnesses her past life in fragments, learns from it, and remains her own person—stubborn, determined, and driven to rescue her parents from the mythical Imugi.
Subverting Expectations
Tale of the Nine-Tailed excels at subverting tropes. Ji-ah is never a passive love interest. She collaborates with Lee Yeon, makes active plans, and pursues vengeance against Imugi with ruthless conviction. Even when she needs rescuing, it doesn't undermine her independence. The series balances tender romance, high-stakes action, and a complex mythology that keeps you guessing. It's a K-drama that respects its heroine's journey as much as its love story.
If you're looking for a fantasy series that blends Korean folklore with a modern, empowered female lead, this is it. For more underrated gems, check out our list of 10 Fantasy Anime That Outshine Frieren: Beyond Journey's End. And if you're a fan of Netflix's international hits, don't miss Netflix's 'Counterattack' Becomes Its Biggest Non-English Hit.
Why You Should Watch It Now
With its compelling characters, stunning visuals, and a love story that defies time, Tale of the Nine-Tailed is a must-watch for K-drama fans and fantasy lovers alike. It's available on Netflix and deserves a spot on your watchlist. Don't let this hidden gem slip away.
