Netflix will remove the acclaimed South Korean zombie films Train to Busan and its sequel, Peninsula, from its streaming library on May 2, 2026, according to a report from polygon.com.
The departure of the films marks the end of an era for fans of the genre on the platform. The outlet described the films as "one of the world's most underrated zombie apocalypsals."
Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, the films have gained a global following due to their fast pacing and intense violence. Polygon.com noted that the stories are particularly valued for providing a "sympathetic view of flawed protagonists struggling against insurmountable odds."
The legacy of Yeon Sang-ho
Train to Busan follows Seok-woo, a workaholic played by Gong Yoo, as he attempts to reconnect with his daughter, Su-an, during a high-speed train journey from Seoul. The narrative shifts into a survival horror as a zombie outbreak disrupts the trip, forcing characters to confront social class divisions.
The sequel, Peninsula, expands the scope of the virus, depicting a Korea under permanent quarantine five years after the initial invasion. The film follows Han Jung-Seok, portrayed by Gang Dong-won, as he leads a group on a high-stakes heist to recover lost funds.
Beyond the action, the source highlights the emotional weight of the characters, such as Jung-Seok's struggle with the loss of his family. Polygon.com emphasized that, like the best entries in the genre, Train to Busan focuses more on "humanity in crisis than it is on the undead."
Fans of the director's work have another reason to watch the films before they vanish. Sang-ho is preparing to debut his next film, Colony, at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. The upcoming project is expected to maintain his signature style of exploring humanity through bleak and violent survival scenarios.
