Netflix's 'Karma' Episode 3: Shocking Revelations and Unexpected Alliances - The Twisted Tale Continues

The Intricate Web of Deception in 'Karma' Episode 3

Netflix's thriller series 'Karma' (Korean title: 'Akyeon') has been captivating audiences worldwide since its release on April 4, 2025. The six-episode series, based on a webtoon of the same name, follows six individuals whose lives become intertwined through a series of unfortunate events and malicious choices. Episode 3 marks a significant turning point in the narrative, revealing shocking truths and unexpected alliances that leave viewers breathless.

The episode delves deeper into the complex relationships between the characters, particularly focusing on the seemingly innocent Yoo-jeong (played by Kong Seung-yeon) and her boyfriend Han Sang-hoon (Lee Kwang-soo). What begins as a straightforward story about a hit-and-run accident gradually transforms into something far more sinister, with layers of deception that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Facade Crumbles: Yoo-jeong's True Nature Revealed

One of the most shocking moments in Episode 3 comes when Yoo-jeong's carefully constructed facade finally crumbles. Throughout the first two episodes, she presents herself as a supportive, kind-hearted girlfriend to Han Sang-hoon, the acupuncturist who believes he accidentally killed an elderly woman in a drunk driving incident. However, in a stunning revelation, we discover that Yoo-jeong is actually working with the Witness Man (Park Hae-soo).

The transformation is jarring and brilliantly portrayed by Kong Seung-yeon. In one moment, she's the picture of compassion and support; in the next, she's hurling profanities and revealing her true calculating nature. This sudden shift in character is particularly impactful as it occurs when Sang-hoon discovers the truth about the accident through the car repair shop (the hood was dented but the front bumper was intact) and the black box footage, realizing that the Witness Man had staged the entire scene.

When Sang-hoon excitedly tells Yoo-jeong that he's innocent and plans to go to the police, her initial agreement to help him seems genuine. However, the shocking twist comes when we learn that she and the Witness Man are actually partners in crime, leading Sang-hoon into a trap that will likely end with his burial in a remote location.

Han Sang-hoon's Desperate Realization

Lee Kwang-soo's portrayal of Han Sang-hoon reaches new heights in Episode 3. Known primarily for his comedic roles, Lee demonstrates impressive range as his character transitions from guilt-ridden and paranoid to briefly hopeful upon discovering his innocence, only to plunge into terror when he realizes the depth of the conspiracy against him.

The scene where Sang-hoon awakens bound and witnesses Yoo-jeong gleefully digging what appears to be his grave is particularly chilling. The horror on his face as he realizes that the woman he trusted is actually part of an elaborate scheme to destroy him creates one of the most memorable moments in the series.

What makes this betrayal even more impactful is the gradual revelation that Sang-hoon may not be as innocent as he appears. Throughout the episode, subtle hints suggest that his relationship with Yoo-jeong might have been built on deception from the start, with both characters playing roles in a complex game of manipulation.

The Mysterious Surveillance Team

Adding another layer to the already complex narrative is the introduction of a mysterious surveillance team in a Grandeur sedan who have been following Sang-hoon. Their presence raises questions about who else might be involved in this web of deception and what their motivations might be.

The surveillance team captures footage of the crime scene, putting them in extreme danger. This subplot introduces new tension: will they become the next victims in this spiral of violence, or do they represent some form of justice in this morally corrupt world? The episode leaves this question unanswered, adding to the mounting suspense that characterizes the series.

The High School Connection: Past Traumas Resurface

Perhaps the most intriguing revelation in Episode 3 is the hint at a shared past between Yoo-jeong and Lee Joo-yeon (Shin Min-ah). The episode briefly alludes to their high school connection, suggesting that their current entanglement is not coincidental but part of a long-standing vendetta.

This revelation adds depth to Yoo-jeong's character, suggesting that her involvement with Sang-hoon and the Witness Man may be motivated by a desire for revenge against Joo-yeon. The episode leaves viewers wondering: was the Witness Man also part of this high school dynamic? The subtle suggestion that he might have been one of the masked boys from their past creates a fascinating possibility that all the seemingly random events in the series might actually be part of an elaborate revenge plot years in the making.

Karma's Central Theme: You Reap What You Sow

Episode 3 powerfully reinforces the series' central theme: karma. As the Korean title 'Akyeon' suggests, these characters are bound by malevolent connections that seem impossible to escape. The episode makes it clear that each character's current suffering is directly connected to their past actions.

Yoo-jeong's statement that Joo-yeon deserves what's happening to her suggests that the doctor's current trauma is payment for past sins. Similarly, Sang-hoon's predicament can be seen as karmic retribution for his moral failings, even if he didn't actually kill the elderly woman as he initially believed.

Director Lee Il-hyeong masterfully uses this episode to emphasize that in the world of 'Karma,' there are no innocent victims – only people paying the price for their choices. As he mentioned in an interview: 'I wanted viewers to enjoy the extreme portrayal of evil as a form of entertainment.' This philosophy is perfectly encapsulated in Episode 3, where the lines between victim and perpetrator become increasingly blurred.

Cinematic Excellence and Psychological Depth

Beyond its gripping plot developments, Episode 3 stands out for its cinematic excellence. The direction creates a palpable sense of dread through clever use of lighting, camera angles, and music. Particularly effective is the scene where Sang-hoon reviews the black box footage, with the revelation shown through his horrified expression rather than directly to the audience.

The psychological depth of the episode is equally impressive. Rather than relying solely on external conflicts, the narrative delves into the internal struggles of its characters. Sang-hoon's mental deterioration as he grapples with guilt, hope, and terror is portrayed with nuance and complexity.

The non-linear storytelling technique continues to be used effectively, with timelines shifting to reveal new information that forces viewers to reconsider everything they thought they knew about the characters and their motivations.

Viewer Reactions: A Global Sensation

Episode 3 of 'Karma' has generated significant buzz among viewers worldwide. On social media platforms, fans have expressed shock at the revelations and praised the performances, particularly Kong Seung-yeon's dramatic transformation from seemingly innocent girlfriend to calculating villain.

As one viewer commented on Instagram: 'I was emotionally manipulated and drained... but I couldn't stop watching!' Others have noted the show's ability to maintain suspense while delivering unexpected twists: 'The middle of the series has thrilling elements but also strangely funny moments, and it gets even better towards the end.'

International critics have also responded positively, with Time magazine praising the show's 'non-linear narrative that maximizes tension' and Collider describing the storyline as 'remarkable to the point of overwhelming.' The series has quickly climbed Netflix's global rankings, reaching #4 worldwide within days of its release.

The Anticipation Builds: What Comes Next?

Episode 3 ends on a cliffhanger that leaves viewers desperate for the next installment. With Sang-hoon in mortal danger, the surveillance team potentially compromised, and the connection between Yoo-jeong and Joo-yeon only partially revealed, the stage is set for even more shocking developments in the second half of the series.

The episode's final moments, with Sang-hoon bound and facing what appears to be certain death, create a sense of hopelessness that is characteristic of the series. Yet, as viewers have learned, 'Karma' delights in subverting expectations, suggesting that there may be even more surprising twists ahead.

As the series progresses past its midpoint, the question becomes not just who will survive, but whether anyone in this morally compromised world deserves to escape the consequences of their actions.

Conclusion: A Masterclass in Psychological Thriller Storytelling

Episode 3 of 'Karma' represents a masterclass in psychological thriller storytelling. By revealing the true nature of characters we thought we understood, introducing new mysteries while resolving others, and deepening the thematic exploration of karma and moral consequence, the episode elevates the series from entertaining thriller to thought-provoking drama.

The performances, particularly from Kong Seung-yeon and Lee Kwang-soo, demonstrate the impressive range of Korean actors who are often typecast in specific roles. Director Lee Il-hyeong's vision of creating a thriller that audiences can enjoy as 'entertainment' while still grappling with deeper questions about morality and consequence is perfectly realized in this pivotal episode.

As 'Karma' continues to captivate global audiences, Episode 3 stands as perhaps its most crucial installment – the point where masks fall away, true motivations are revealed, and the full, terrifying scope of the story begins to take shape. For viewers who have made it this far, there's no turning back – just like the characters themselves, we're now fully entangled in this web of deception, revenge, and inescapable karma.