All of Us Are Dead: Every Main Character's Name & Journey

Main Characters in All of Us Are Dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Introduction:

All of Us Are Dead is a gripping South Korean zombie apocalypse series that has taken the world by storm. The show, based on the webtoon Now at Our School, introduces a diverse cast of characters, each facing the harsh reality of a zombie outbreak at their high school. The series offers more than just the thrill of survival horror; it delves into the psychological and emotional challenges the characters face, testing their morality, friendship, and resilience.

In this post, we'll explore every main character in All of Us Are Dead, examining their personalities, growth, and the key moments that define their journey. We’ll also touch on how each main character in All of Us Are Dead contributes to the show's exploration of human nature and survival in the face of catastrophe.

Lee Cheong-san (Yoon Chan-young)

Lee Cheong-san in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Hey! All of you! Come after me! Today,

I am the happiest guy in this school!

-Lee Cheong-san's Last Words

Cheong-san emerges as one of the central protagonists in All of Us Are Dead. He is brave, compassionate, and deeply loyal to his friends, especially Nam On-jo, with whom he shares a complicated relationship. Cheong-san's journey is one of constant self-sacrifice, a theme that permeates his character arc throughout the series. From the very beginning, he assumes the role of protector, often placing himself in danger to ensure the safety of his classmates.

Cheong-san's relationship with On-jo is one of the emotional cores of the show. His unspoken love for her drives many of his decisions and their bond is tested repeatedly as they face the horrors of the zombie outbreak. However, Cheong-san is more than just a romantic figure; his leadership and quick thinking are vital to the group's survival. One of the most significant moments for his character occurs when he faces Gwi-nam (All of Us Are Dead Villain), who becomes a personal nemesis. Cheong-san's final act of bravery is one of the series' most heart-wrenching moments, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good.

Nam On-jo(Park Ji-hu)

Nam On-jo in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

On-jo is one of the most resourceful and level-headed characters in the series. Her knowledge of survival tactics, largely thanks to her father, a firefighter, proves invaluable to the group. On-jo's emotional intelligence is as crucial as her practical skills. She often serves as the emotional anchor for the group, comforting her friends during moments of despair while also motivating them to keep going.

Her relationship with Cheong-san is a slow burn throughout the series, marked by unspoken feelings and moments of deep connection. On-jo's personal journey is heavily tied to her relationship with her father, Nam So-ju, whose attempts to rescue her add a layer of emotional tension to the narrative. When she finally learns of her father's fate, On-jo's grief is palpable, but it also marks a turning point in her character. She becomes more resolute, determined to survive not just for herself but to honor those she has lost.

On-jo's strength lies in her empathy and resilience, making her a natural leader by the end of the series. Her ability to stay calm under pressure, combined with her deep care for her friends, sets her apart as one of the show's most beloved characters.

Choi Nam-ra (Cho Yi-hyun)

Choi Nam-ra in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Nam-ra begins the series as the quiet, aloof class president who initially seems disconnected from her classmates. However, as the story unfolds, Nam-ra undergoes one of the most significant transformations in the series. Her growth from a reserved, emotionally distant individual to a strong, capable leader is one of the show's most compelling arcs.

Nam-ra's transformation is both physical and emotional. After being bitten by a zombie, she becomes a "half-zombie," retaining her human consciousness while also gaining some of the zombies' enhanced abilities. This transformation makes her a critical figure in the group's survival. Her heightened senses and strength allow her to fend off zombie attacks and protect her friends. However, her dual nature also becomes a source of internal conflict, as she struggles to maintain control over her zombie instincts.

Nam-ra's relationship with Lee Su-hyeok is another central aspect of her character development. The two characters share a slow-burning romance that deepens as they face the apocalypse together. Su-hyeok's unwavering trust in Nam-ra, even after her transformation, highlights the theme of acceptance and the blurred line between humans and monsters in the series.

Ultimately, Nam-ra's journey is one of self-acceptance and sacrifice. She learns to embrace her new identity and use her abilities to protect those she cares about, even if it means distancing herself from them for their safety.

Lee Su-hyeok (Park Solomon)

Lee Su-hyeok in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Su-hyeok is the quintessential "bad boy with a heart of gold" in All of Us Are Dead. Initially portrayed as a delinquent, Su-hyeok quickly proves himself to be one of the most dependable and courageous characters in the group. His strength and combat skills make him a natural leader in the group's fight against the zombies.

Su-hyeok's loyalty to his friends, particularly Cheong-san and Nam-ra, is unwavering. He is willing to risk his life repeatedly to protect them, and his bravery often inspires the other characters to persevere in the face of overwhelming odds. Su-hyeok's romantic tension with Nam-ra adds another layer of complexity to his character. Their relationship is built on mutual respect and trust, and Su-hyeok's acceptance of Nam-ra's half-zombie nature reflects the show's exploration of what it means to be human in a world overrun by monsters.

One of Su-hyeok's defining moments comes when he confronts Yoon Gwi-nam. This showdown not only showcases Su-hyeok's physical strength but also his emotional resilience, as he grapples with the guilt of not being able to save all of his friends.

Yoon Gwi-nam (Yoo In-soo)

Yoon Gwi-nam in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Gwi-nam is the primary Villain in All of Us Are Dead, a former school bully who becomes a hybrid zombie-human after being bitten but not fully turned. Gwi-nam's character represents the darker side of human nature, as he uses the outbreak as an opportunity to further his own violent and sadistic tendencies.

As a hybrid, Gwi-nam retains his intelligence and gains the enhanced physical abilities of a zombie, making him a nearly unstoppable force. His vendetta against Cheong-san drives much of the tension in the series, as he relentlessly pursues the group in a twisted game of cat and mouse.

Gwi-nam's transformation into a hybrid zombie symbolizes the show's exploration of the thin line between humans and monsters. His character serves as a stark contrast to characters like Nam-ra, who also becomes a half-zombie but chooses to use her powers for good. Gwi-nam, on the other hand, fully embraces his monstrous side, making him one of the series' most terrifying villains.

Han Gyeong-su (Ham Sung-Min)

Han Gyeong-su all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

It's okay, it's okay. Thank you, guys, for everything. Really. Stay alive. (...) Why are you doing that? You're scaring me. Stop that. Stop it. Cheong-san, why are you doing that? Stop it! Stop it, please! I'm scared!

-Han Gyeong-su's Last words

Gyeong-su is Cheong-san's best friend and one of the more lighthearted characters in the group. His loyalty to Cheong-san and his willingness to put himself in danger to protect his friends make him a beloved character early in the series. Gyeong-su's sense of humor and optimism provide a brief respite from the constant tension of the zombie apocalypse.

However, Gyeong-su's journey takes a tragic turn when Na-yeon deliberately infects Gyeong-su by wiping a handkerchief with zombie blood on his wound. Nam-ra witnesses Na-yeon’s deceit and exposes her to the group, but the damage is already done. In a devastating twist, Gyeong-su’s zombified body later falls out of the window, unintentionally causing the death of Cheong-san’s mother, who mistakes him for an uninfected individual. Na-yeon is haunted by guilt, frequently hallucinating Gyeong-su’s presence. Gyeong-su’s final appearance occurs in Episode 11 when he is among the horde of zombies killed by a military explosion. His death is a poignant reminder of the personal betrayals and tragic losses that define the series, underscoring the emotional and moral complexities faced by the characters in the aftermath of the outbreak.

Jang Ha-ri (Ha Seung-lee)

Jang Ha-ri in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Jang Ha-ri is the captain of the school's archery team and one of the most skilled fighters in the group. Her proficiency with a bow and arrow makes her a formidable force against the zombies, and her calm demeanor under pressure makes her a natural leader.

Ha-ri's relationship with her younger brother, Jang Woo-jin, is one of the emotional focal points of her character. Her determination to protect him at all costs adds depth to her otherwise stoic personality. Ha-ri's arc is one of resilience and responsibility, as she takes on the role of protector for both her brother and the other survivors.

Ha-ri's skills with the bow are highlighted in several key action sequences, where her precision and quick thinking save the group from multiple zombie attacks. Her character embodies the theme of using one's unique talents to survive in a world where traditional rules no longer apply.

Park Mi-jin (Lee Eun-saem)

Park Mi-jin in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Mi-jin is a rebellious, foul-mouthed student who quickly becomes one of the group's most fearless members. Her tough exterior and no-nonsense attitude make her stand out among the survivors, but beneath her rough facade, Mi-jin has a deep capacity for compassion and loyalty.

Mi-jin's character arc is one of gradual growth, as she begins to care more for the group's welfare than her own survival. Her sharp wit and biting humor provide comic relief during tense moments, but she also plays a crucial role in helping the group navigate through the dangers of the apocalypse.

One of Mi-jin's most memorable moments comes when she faces a group of zombies alone to buy time for the others. Her bravery and willingness to sacrifice herself for the greater good highlight her transformation from a self-centered loner to a true team player.

Yang Dae-su (Lim Jae-hyuk)

Yang Dae-su in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Dae-su provides much of the comic relief in All of Us Are Dead, but his character is more than just a source of humor. Despite his larger size and goofy personality, Dae-su proves to be one of the most dependable members of the group. His strength and determination often come in handy during physical confrontations with the zombies.

Dae-su's optimism and lighthearted nature help to keep the group's spirits up during their darkest moments. His unrequited crush on Ha-ri adds a layer of sweetness to his character, showing that even in the midst of an apocalypse, human emotions like love and affection persist.

Dae-su's most significant moment comes when he uses his size and strength to hold back a group of zombies, allowing the others to escape. This act of heroism cements his place as one of the group's most valuable members.

Nam So-ju (Jeon Bae-soo)

Nam So-ju in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

Look at me On-jo, Run!

-Nam so-ju's last words

Nam So-ju, On-jo's father, is a firefighter who risks everything to save his daughter and her classmates. So-ju's role in the series is largely focused on his desperate attempts to reach On-jo and ensure her safety. His skills as a firefighter make him an invaluable asset in the fight against the zombies, as he uses his training to navigate dangerous situations and protect the survivors.

So-ju's relationship with On-jo is one of the emotional backbones of the series. His unwavering dedication to her, even at the cost of his own life, speaks to the show's broader themes of parental sacrifice and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones. So-ju's eventual fate is one of the series' most heartbreaking moments, as he ultimately gives his life to ensure that On-jo and her friends can escape.

Lee Na-yeon (Lee You-mi)

Lee Na-yeon in all of us are dead — Character images and screenshots from All of Us Are Dead are courtesy of Netflix

You're Not a Zombie, Are you?

-Lee Na-yeon's last words

Lee Na-yeon is one of the most complex and controversial characters in All of Us Are Dead. Her privileged background, self-centered attitude, and refusal to work with others make her an antagonistic presence within the group of survivors. Na-yeon represents a different kind of danger in the apocalypse—one that arises from within the group rather than from the zombies outside.

From the beginning, Na-yeon's elitism and condescending nature set her apart from her classmates. She looks down on those she deems beneath her, particularly Gyeong-su, whom she discriminates against due to his poorer background. Her vanity and arrogance create tension within the group, and she quickly becomes one of the least sympathetic characters.

Her most infamous moment occurs when she deliberately infects Gyeong-su with zombie blood, leading to his transformation. This shocking act stems from her inability to trust others and her deep-seated prejudice against those who don't meet her standards. Gyeong-su's death is one of the turning points in the series, and Na-yeon’s actions cause her to be ostracized by the group.

Despite her flaws, Na-yeon's character serves a larger thematic purpose. She embodies the idea that, in times of crisis, humanity's worst traits—prejudice, selfishness, and a lack of empathy—can be just as dangerous as external threats. Her inability to see beyond her own fears and biases ultimately leads to tragic consequences, not just for her victims, but for herself as well.

Na-yeon's journey is one of the most tragic, not because of her demise, but because of the way she isolates herself from the group and never fully redeems herself. While many other characters undergo significant growth and change, Na-yeon remains largely static, trapped by her own fears and insecurities. Her downfall serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing prejudice and selfishness to dictate one's actions during a crisis.

In her final moments, Na-yeon expresses regret, but by then, it's too late to undo the damage she has caused. Her death is a sobering reminder that in the face of apocalypse, it is not only the zombies that threaten humanity but also the darkness that resides within.

Thematic Exploration: Survival, Morality, and Human Nature

Beyond its thrilling action sequences and emotional character arcs, All of Us Are Dead also explores deeper themes of survival, morality, and human nature. Each character's journey is a reflection of how individuals react to extreme situations, and the choices they make often blur the lines between right and wrong.

One of the central themes in the series is the question of what it means to be human in a world where humanity is rapidly disintegrating. Characters like Nam-ra and Gwi-nam, who straddle the line between human and zombie, embody this theme most directly. Nam-ra's internal struggle to maintain her humanity despite her transformation highlights the show's exploration of identity and the fear of losing oneself in the face of overwhelming change.

The series also grapples with the morality of survival. Characters are often forced to make difficult decisions that challenge their ethical beliefs. For instance, when Gyeong-su is bitten and begins to turn, the group faces the moral dilemma of whether to kill him or risk him turning into a zombie. These moments force the characters—and the audience—to confront the harsh realities of survival in a post-apocalyptic world.

Additionally, All of Us Are Dead examines the role of authority and societal structures during a crisis. The school's faculty and the government's response to the outbreak are often depicted as inadequate or even detrimental to the survivors. This critique of authority raises questions about trust, leadership, and the failures of institutions in times of disaster.

Conclusion:

All of Us Are Dead is more than just a zombie apocalypse series; it is a character-driven exploration of human nature, survival, and the complexities of morality in the face of catastrophe. Each character in the show contributes to these themes, offering a unique perspective on what it means to be human in a world overrun by monsters.

As we follow the characters' journeys, we see them grow, change, and make difficult choices that challenge their beliefs and test their limits. Whether it's Cheong-san's ultimate sacrifice, Nam-ra's struggle to maintain her humanity or On-jo's unwavering resilience, each character's story adds depth to the show's exploration of survival and human nature.

In the end, All of Us Are Dead is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, even in the most dire of circumstances. The characters' stories remind us that, even in the face of unimaginable horror, hope, love, and friendship can endure.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ):

1. What inspired the storyline of All of Us Are Dead?

All of Us Are Dead is inspired by the webtoon Now at Our School by Joo Dong-geun. The series blends elements of zombie horror with high school drama to explore themes of survival, friendship, and human nature in the face of a catastrophic outbreak.

2. How does All of Us Are Dead differ from other zombie apocalypse series?

Unlike many zombie series that focus primarily on the external threats posed by zombies, All of Us Are Dead delves deeply into the emotional and psychological impacts on high school students. It emphasizes character development, interpersonal dynamics, and the moral dilemmas faced by the survivors, adding a unique layer to the genre.

3. Are there any notable differences between the webtoon and the Netflix series adaptation?

While the Netflix series closely follows the webtoon’s plot, there are some differences in character development, pacing, and specific events. The adaptation may include changes to suit the episodic format and to enhance the visual and dramatic impact for a broader audience.

4. What are some key themes explored in All of Us Are Dead?

All of Us Are Dead explores several key themes, including survival, the ethics of human behavior during crises, and the impact of social hierarchies on group dynamics. The series also examines the nature of friendship, sacrifice, and the personal struggles of maintaining one’s humanity amidst overwhelming adversity.

5. How has All of Us Are Dead been received by critics and audiences?

All of Us Are Dead has generally received positive reviews for its engaging storyline, character depth, and fresh take on the zombie genre. Critics and audiences alike have praised the series for its compelling portrayal of high school life in a crisis, as well as its ability to blend horror with emotional and dramatic elements effectively.

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