Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum keeps its focus on classic horror elements and tension-building, not on checking boxes for identity politics. Characters are primarily defined by their personalities and roles within the ghost-hunting group, rather than identity traits. There’s no obvious attempt at forced representation or agenda-driven tweaks to the premise, a rare relief in modern cinema.

This film doesn’t wade into critiques or deconstructions of religion, family, masculinity, or traditional values. It’s concerned with scaring the audience, not with undermining cultural foundations. No woke reinterpretations or preachy undertones in sight.

There’s little to no ideological messaging in Gonjiam. It doesn’t labor to ridicule traditional views, nor does it present a uniform progressive worldview. The plot is far more invested in delivering jumpscares than moral lessons, which frankly is refreshing these days.