Queen Mantis, the newest SBS thriller currently streaming on Netflix, is already creating a stir with its gripping story and phenomenal cast. A remake of the French drama La Mante, this series delves into the dark history of serial killings and broken family relationships.
Following two episodes that will keep you at the edge of your seat, we are eagerly waiting to see Episode 3, which promises to tell the hidden story of Jung Yi Shin’s first murder that earned her the dreaded title of “The Mantis” more than 20 years ago.
Recap So Far (Episodes 1 & 2)
The story details Jung Yi Shin, a famous serial killer called The Mantis, who murdered five men about 20 years ago. Currently in prison, she is drawn back into attention as a copycat killer carries out her crimes.
With no other options, the police ask for Jung Yi Shin’s assistance. But the biggest twist is that her son, Cha Soo Yeol, who she has been separated from all his life and now hates her, must work with Jung Yi Shin.
Public opinion on Jung Yi Shin remains split: many believe she is pure evil, others, like an unhinged Seo Gu Wan, idolize her. The real mystery, though, is why did Jung Yi Shin kill these men in the first place?
Episode 3 Preview – The First Murder Reveal
Episode 3 takes audiences on a time-traveling odyssey which will look back at Jung Yi Shin’s very first murder. This sequence, revealed in official stills from the production, hints at the most chilling reveal yet:
- Jung Yi Shin, tense, on edge, outside her home on a dark night.
- Her white dress was blood-soaked, dripping blood into the dirt in front of a well.
- An eerie image of her laughing maniacally, filled with madness.
According to the production team, this episode will finally reveal where the story of Jung Yi Shin’s first murder begins. A turning-point which will forever change how both her family and the audience will view her.
Cast Highlights
- Go Hyun Jung (Jung Yi Shin): Impressive portrayal. Currently known for Mask Girl and Reflection of You.
- Jang Dong Yoon (Cha Soo Yeol): The contradictory detective [is] previously presented in Like Flowers in Sand and Daily Dose of Sunshine.
- Cho Seong Ha (Choi Jung Ho): Brings weight. Previously appears in Navillera and Captivating the King.
- Lee El (Kim Ha Nui): Previously seen in My Liberation Notes, [brings] layered intensity.
- Supporting roles: Kim Bo Ra, Han Si A, Kil Geum Sung.
Production Team’s Tease
The creators promise there are going to be some of the most potent moments in the series in Episode 3.
They call Go Hyun Jung’s performance in the blood-soaked flashback “awe-inspiring, emotional, and chilling.” The creators expect the high-intensity sequence to shock the viewers while revealing Jung Yi Shin’s tragic, terrifying backstory.
Why Fans Are Excited
- Interest over why Jung Yi Shin became The Mantis.
- The heavy mother–son conflict creates emotional heft.
- Unique dark psychological thriller aspects in K-drama.
- High expectations because of the French original La Mante.
When & Where to Watch
- Episode 3 Release: September 12, 2025, at 9:50 PM KST (SBS).
- Netflix: Available globally with subtitles right after broadcast.
- Total Episodes: 8 (two new episodes weekly on Friday & Saturday).
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Conclusion
Episode 3 of Queen Mantis makes history with the first-ever on-screen murder of Jung Yi Shin. Blood and mystery and complete emotional chaos, Go Hyun Jung’s disturbing character challenge’s everything we thought we knew about K-drama villains.
With an engaging plot, psychological complexity, and unimaginable plot-twists, Queen Mantis is clearly gaining momentum to be one of the best thrillers of 2025.
