"Living Corpse" is a manga series that explores a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, blending elements of horror, action, and psychological drama. The narrative centers on Kenichi, a man who becomes a zombie after a tragic accident but retains his human consciousness. Unlike the mindless undead, Kenichi struggles to maintain his humanity while navigating a world where the living view him as a monster. His unique condition places him in a precarious position, caught between the human survivors and the growing hordes of the undead.

The story begins with Kenichi's transformation and his subsequent efforts to protect his loved ones, particularly his younger sister, Yuko. As he grapples with his new existence, Kenichi encounters other sentient zombies who, like him, retain fragments of their former selves. These encounters reveal a deeper mystery surrounding the zombie outbreak, suggesting that it may not be a random occurrence but the result of a sinister experiment or conspiracy. The series delves into themes of identity, morality, and the blurred line between life and death, as Kenichi is forced to confront the ethical dilemmas of his condition.

Throughout the series, Kenichi forms uneasy alliances with both humans and zombies, each with their own motivations and struggles. The human survivors, led by a hardened military officer named Captain Akagi, view Kenichi with suspicion and fear, often exploiting his abilities for their own survival. Meanwhile, the sentient zombies, including a mysterious woman named Rei, offer Kenichi a sense of belonging but also challenge his resolve to remain true to his humanity. The tension between these factions drives much of the plot, culminating in a series of intense confrontations and moral quandaries.

As the story progresses, Kenichi uncovers more about the origins of the zombie plague, leading to a climactic showdown with those responsible. The series balances its grim, apocalyptic setting with moments of introspection and character development, particularly in Kenichi's internal struggle to reconcile his monstrous form with his human soul. The narrative is punctuated by visceral action sequences and moments of emotional weight, creating a compelling exploration of survival and redemption in a world where the boundaries between life and death have been irrevocably shattered.