In recent years, South Korean cinema has captivated audiences worldwide, transcending language barriers with its unique blend of storytelling, innovation, and artistry. Far from being newcomers to the industry, Korean filmmakers have been been honing their craft for decades.
From the groundbreaking brilliance of “Parasite,” which made history at the Oscars, to the intense political thriller “12.12: The Day,” and the haunting mystery of “Exhuma,” Korean films offer a great diversity of cinematic experiences, showcasing some of the best movies made anywhere. Films like “Sunny” bring nostalgic charm, blending laughter and tears, a particular Korean specialty. Meanwhile, “Oldboy” and “Lady Vengeance” stand out with their gripping tales of revenge, weaving narratives of twisted moral complexity that have left an indelible mark on world of cinema.
Our editors and writers have used a ranked choice method with a score to determine which films made the list. Each film offers a unique glimpse into Korean culture and society, presenting narratives that resonate universally while maintaining a distinctly Korean flavor.
Join us on a great cinematic adventure through the best Korean movies available for streaming. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Korean cinema or a rookie, work through this list while you can because you never know when a title will disappear from a streaming platform. Enjoy these great cinematic gems!
Films rated by our editors with a score of 0-10 and ranked accordingly.
1. Parasite (2019): 9.2
Bong Joon Ho’s “Parasite” created a global sensation after its release in 2019. The film elevated Korean cinema’s status by winning Oscars for the Best Picture (and Best Director and Best Screenplay) at the 2020 Academy Awards. It also won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and glittered at every major awards celebration on the planet. “Parasite” is a cinematic tour de force that transcends simple social satire, providing a deep and insightful exploration of human nature and societal structures.
“Parasite,” with Bong Joon Ho’s exceptional direction, outstanding performances, and sharp social critique, is acclaimed as a masterpiece that will be remembered in film history. Its deep exploration of wealth disparity and human nature elevates it beyond mere entertainment.
2. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring (2003): 9.2
The only Korean movie on Roger Ebert’s list of ‘Great Movies’, this film is highly regarded for its beautiful depiction of nature, humanity, and the changes and cycles of life, earning widespread acclaim. The story unfolds in a small wooden house located deep in the mountains, portraying the life, growth, and cyclical world of a person. Through the seasons of spring, summer, fall, winter, and spring again, the film captures the full spectrum of emotions and experiences we go through.
3. Oldboy (2003): 9.0
He was just an ordinary salaryman until he was kidnapped and imprisoned for 15 years. Living on nothing but dumplings in solitary confinement, he gradually loses his mind. Finally liberated, he receives a phone call that marks the beginning of revenge!
“Oldboy” won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival, marking a significant milestone for the Korean film industry. This achievement was pivotal as it was the first time a Korean film received such widespread international acclaim.
4. The King (2017): 8.9
This movie might remind you of “The Wolf of Wall Street”, but with an authentic Korean point of view. “The King” is all in on wealth, power, corruption and debauchery. And the unfolding story will leave you infuriated but mesmerized. While imaginatively exploring serious historical events in Korean politics, there is plenty of humor to keep you entertained while educating you on the power dynamics that make Korean prosecutors possibly the most dangerous people in Korea.
5. Memories of Murder (2003): 8.8
Bong Joon Ho’s “Memories of Murder” was only his second feature film as a director and it is genuinely incredible. A real-life murder mystery that was only recently solved, Memories tells the story of a series of grisly murders in South Korea and the investigators’ desperate but sadly flawed attempts to find the killer.
There are so many classic Korean details in this visually striking film that you might want to watch it twice. Strong performances from the stellar cast, including Song Kang Ho of “Parasite”, deliver some truly edge-of-your-seat moments. Since its release, this film was notoriously difficult to watch in the States, so catch it on tubitv.com before it’s gone.
6. A Taxi Driver (2017): 8.5
This film is based on the true story of German journalist Jürgen Hinzpeter and taxi driver Kim Sa-bok, who revealed the truth of the May 18th, 1980 Democratic Uprising in Korea. The film follows middle-aged taxi driver Kim Man-seop (played by Song Kang-ho), struggling to support his family. One day, he encounters a German informant named Peter (played by Thomas Kretschmann), who offers him a significant sum of money to stay until he returns on the same day. Desperate for money, Man-seop agrees to the deal, unaware of the dangerous and politically charged situation in Gwangju. As they arrive in the city, they realize they are at the heart of a massive pro-democracy movement against military dictatorship.
7. Sopyonje (1993): 8.5
Im Kwon-taek’s “Seopyeonje” (1993) is the first film in Korean cinema history to record 1 million viewers. It is a heartbreaking and intense story that leaves a lasting impact. Based on Lee Cheong-jun’s series of novels, the film tells the tragic tale of the wanderer, a singer of pansori (a type of Korean folk-blues music), his adopted daughter, and his son.
8. Past Lives (2023): 8.3
In Celine Song’s film, it’s the engineer who’s the dreamer and the playwright who prefers decisions based on practicality over possibility. In Song’s world, the sweep of in-yun, or fate, is introduced by a writer. But the true romantics of “Past Lives” may surprise you.
If life is the sum of the choices we make, what happens when both options in front of you are wonderful and terrible? When both choices force actions that are unavoidably messy and cruel? That’s the setup in Song’s exceptionable cinematic debut. It’s about the utter ache of living a single lifetime when even your most assured decisions only highlight what you don’t have.
“Past Lives” is a semi-autobiographic story of a first love that is interrupted by a family’s move to another continent. The film follows the couple through the different chapters of their lives and the other relationships they choose before seeing each other again.
9. The Book of Fish (2021): 8.3
Jung Yak Jeon, a scholar and government official, faces exile to the remote island of Heuksando. Immersed in the island’s coastal wonders, he becomes captivated by its marine life, sparking a desire to chronicle his observations. Seeking assistance, Jung Yak Jeon approaches young fisherman Chang Dae, whose initial refusal stems from reluctance to aid a perceived criminal. Recognizing Chang Dae’s solitary struggle with education, Jung Yak Jeon proposes a mutually beneficial exchange: his scholarly knowledge in exchange for Chang Dae’s expertise of the sea. Reluctantly, Chang Dae agrees. As time passes, Jung Yak Jeon discovers Chang Dae’s ambitions for success through diligent study.
10. 1987: When the Day Comes (2017): 8.3
In January 1987, a twenty-two-year-old college student dies during police interrogation. Chief Park (played by Kim Yoon-seok) orders cremation to destroy evidence, but Prosecutor Choi (played by Ha Jung-woo) refuses and insists on an autopsy. Despite police falsehoods portraying the death as mere shock, evidence and autopsy suggest torture. Journalist Yoon (played by Lee Hee-joon) reports “death by suffocation during water torture.” Chief Park minimizes the incident by arresting two detectives. Meanwhile, Prison Guard Han (played by Yoo Hae-jin) learns the truth and tasks his niece Yeon-hee (played by Kim Tae-ri) with delivering it to a wanted civilian figure. With one death, everything changes.
Based on a true story, this is the tale of the turbulent events that led up to the June Democratic Uprising of 1987 in Korea.
11. Lady Vengeance (2006): 8.3
Director Park Chan-wook gained attention among film enthusiasts with “Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance” and achieved significant success both domestically and internationally with “Oldboy.” Both films deal with themes of revenge, as does “Lady Vengeance,” the final installment in Park Chan-wook’s Vengeance Trilogy.
This film follows the story of Geum-ja, a stunningly beautiful protagonist. Geum-ja (played by Lee Young-ae), who possesses stunning beauty that instantly captivates those around her, commits a crime at the age of twenty and ends up in prison. Even at the moment of her arrest, her striking looks garner media attention. During her 13 years of incarceration, Geum-ja is the epitome of diligence and exemplary behavior. Her nickname, “Kind-hearted Ms. Geum-ja,” became famous even within the prison.
Over the years, she diligently helps those around her and completes her sentence without incident. Upon her release, Geum-ja unveils the meticulously planned revenge she has been preparing. Her target is Mr. Baek (played by Choi Min-sik), the man who made her a criminal. The fellow inmates she aided during her prison term now assist her in various ways to exact her revenge. What happened between Geum-ja and Mr. Baek 13 years ago, and why does she seek vengeance? And how will this tale of revenge ultimately unfold?
12. 12.12: The Day (2023): 8.2
It’s not often that deep anger lingers after watching a cinematic blockbuster. But “12.12: The Day” viscerally draws out that emotion by illuminating a darkly pivotal moment in Korean politics. Namely, it gives an eyewitness account of the nine-hour military coup that took place on December 12th, 1979, roughly six weeks after the assassination of President Park Chung Hee.
12.12 is a dramatization that stays, for the most part, faithful to fact. It’s a gripping tale told by an exceptional filmmaker. Even if you’ve studied Korean politics, witnessing how General Chun step-by-step dismantles democratic safeguards and how he brazenly seizes power is astonishing.
13. Time To Hunt (2020): 8.1
Truly one of the best Korean movies on Netflix, “Time To Hunt” is a high-octane Netflix Original crime thriller that exceeds expectations with intense action sequences, compelling bromance, and edge-of-your-seat drama. Set in a dystopian poverty-stricken South Korea, four friends pull off a reckless heist to escape their dire financial straits. But, in doing so, they get themselves on the radar of a ruthless assassin who will stop at nothing to hunt them all down. Reminiscent of “Terminator”, Park Hae-soo’s excellent performance as the chilling assassin won him a nomination for a Baeksang Award for best new actor.
14. World of Us (2016): 8.1
South Korea has one of the highest suicide rates in the world, much of which is attributed to intense social pressures. Director Yoon Ga-eun’s debut feature film shows childhood isn’t so simple. Korean kids know how to bully! “World of Us“ is a deceptively soft-hued and insightful look at the sometimes brutal world of children. You will be fully invested in the euphoric highs and devastating lows felt by the youngsters in this beautifully restrained film.
15. The Man From Nowhere (2010): 8.1
A violent action/thriller, “The Man From Nowhere” is the story of a pawnshop owner called Tae-shik who was previously a high-ranking special agent. Now a complete recluse, Tae-shik’s only human relationship is with a little girl who lives near his shop. This little girl’s mother ends up stealing a bag of heroin from a gang of drug traffickers and invites a lot of trouble for both herself and her daughter. The film is well-written and directed, with Won Bin doing a fantastic job as the leading character. If brilliant action sequences are what you love, this is the film for you.
16. Spirits’ Homecoming (2016): 8.1
In 1943, the innocent fourteen-year-old Jeong-min is forcibly taken away from her family by Japanese soldiers without knowing why. Along with Yeong-hee and many other children, Jeong-min is loaded onto a train heading to an unknown destination. During World War II, Jeong-min and the other children are abandoned amid a freezing battlefield. What awaits them there is a horrific scene of pain and suffering, surrounded solely by Japanese soldiers.
The film is based on the true story of Kang Il-chul, who was taken as a comfort woman by the Japanese military in the 1940s. Due to societal neglect and a lack of investors, production only began after a prolonged fundraising period. Initially targeting a release on Independence Day in 2015, the 70th anniversary of Korea’s liberation, financial shortages delayed the project. Further fundraising efforts from citizens and overseas Koreans ultimately enabled its release on February 24, 2016. Despite difficulties securing theaters, strong word-of-mouth support helped the film attract over 3.5 million viewers.
The production faced numerous challenges due to its low budget. Many actors, along with the art director and other staff, donated their talents without compensation. Notably, a Korean-Japanese actor who played a Japanese soldier even covered his own airfare and accommodation costs. These heartfelt contributions add a poignant layer to the film’s moving narrative, making it a truly impactful and memorable work.
17. Burning (2018): 8.1
Based on a short story by acclaimed author Haruki Murakami, “Burning” is literally a slow-burning character study of three individuals caught in a potent love triangle. Isolated writer Jong Su meets his childhood neighborhood playmate Hae Mi and they end up sleeping together. He reads way more into the casual encounter and starts to think of her as “his girl.” But Hae Mi doesn’t seem interested in pursuing a relationship and primarily wants him to look after her cat while she goes on a trip.
Jong Su, like the dutiful boyfriend he imagines himself to be, takes care of Hae Mi’s cat and goes to pick her up at the airport on the day of her return. He is taken aback when she arrives with a new boyfriend in town – rich and entitled Ben played by Steven Yeun of “Minari”, and the audience is pulled into an unsettling mystery full of dread and doom. You know something bad is going to happen. This psychological thriller builds up hair-raising tension and climaxes in a fantastically unpredictable manner.
18. Snowpiercer (2013): 8.0
This pre-Parasite gem by Bong Joon Ho is a wildly imaginative dystopian thriller with a star-studded cast including Tilda Swinton, Chris Evans, Ed Harris, Octavia Spencer, John Hurt, and Song Kang-ho. A South Korean-Czech co-production, the film marks Bong Joon Ho’s English-language debut.
The story takes place in a future where a failed global warming experiment kills off most life on the planet. The Snowpiercer is a train that travels around the globe via a perpetual-motion engine, and order is sustained by a strict class system that is challenged by a rumbling lower class.
For those who are left wanting more of the Snowpiercer story after watching this film, an American television series can be found on TNT, starring Jennifer Connelly and Daveed Diggs.
19. Mother (2009): 8.0
Living and working at a local herb shop, a mother shares her life with her only son, Do-joon, who means everything to her. Despite his age, the naive and clumsy Do-joon struggles to take care of himself, often causing minor accidents and inconveniencing those around him. One day, a young girl is found murdered, and Do-joon is arrested as the prime suspect. Faced with her son being falsely accused, the mother does everything in her power to save him. Who is the real perpetrator of the crime? And will Do-joon be able to clear his name?
The film “Mother,” directed by Bong Joon-ho, is his fourth feature and drew significant attention as it marked Won Bin’s return to acting after his military service. This film delves into the lengths a mother will go to for her son and the complexities of twisted motherhood. While the title “Mother” evokes familiar imagery, the film’s opening shatters these expectations in a strikingly brutal manner.
“Mother” naturally calls to mind “Memories of Murder” due to its murder case and the police’s construction of a suspect. However, it subtly subverts the narrative style of “Memories of Murder” with its meticulously arranged crime scenes and the unique identity of the perpetrator. The latter part of the film especially highlights Bong Joon-ho’s extraordinary talent, making it a must-watch. Although it’s been several years since its release, “Mother” remains an outstanding piece of cinema.
20. Little Forest (2018): 8.0
*Foodie Must Watch!*
This little gem by South Korean director Yim Soon-rye will have you yearning for the simple life you never knew you wanted. An endearing and understated celebration of authentic Korean food, friendship, and family, “Little Forest” is about a young woman (Aegi ssi, for Mr. Sunshine fans!) who moves back to her childhood farming village and discovers the things that truly make her happy.
You’ll be inspired by the amazing farm to table cooking scenes and wondering why you aren’t drying your own persimmons.
21. Shoot Me in the Heart (2015): 8.0
A moving and life affirming story, “Shoot Me in the Heart” deftly explores the themes of freedom, oppression, and mental illness. The story of Soo-Myung and Seung-Min begins in a mental institution after Soo-Myung is admitted there by his father after suffering from traumatic psychological issues triggered by the death of his mother.
Seung-Min, on the other hand, is in there for all the wrong reasons. He was framed as mentally unstable by his half-brother who needed to put him away for his own selfish purposes. The two roommates hatch plans of escape but meet with harsh punishment every time they are caught and end up facing possibly life altering shock treatment therapy.
The often hard-to-watch brutal environment of mental institutions is softened by the warm-hearted community of inmates who take care of each other in their own inventive ways, showing how the bonds of trust and friendship can sometimes lead to a road of healing.
22. Ode to My Father (2014): 8.0
On the 73rd anniversary of the Korean War, “Ode to My Father” (2014) stands as one of the most moving films about a war that divided thousands of families caught in the crosshairs in the battle for Korea.
This film captures the sweeping history of modern Korea and the sacrifices it took to go from one of the poorest nations in the world to one of the most prosperous, in one generation. “Ode to My Father” also shows that for many, financial success can’t heal the persistent ache felt from being separated from family members after the Korean War.
Set against the backdrop of the Korean War, “Ode to My Father”, directed by Yoon Je-kyoon, follows the fictional life of Deok-soo (played by Hwang Jung-min), a young boy whose family was separated during the tumultuous evacuation onto the ship that took him to the South. With an unwavering determination to reunite his family, Deok-soo embarks on a journey that spans five decades, crossing paths with extraordinary characters and enduring incredible hardships. The film skillfully weaves together historical events and personal narratives, making it an emotional rollercoaster that resonates deeply with audiences.
23. Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds (2017): 8.0
According to the laws of Ja-hong’s afterlife, every human must undergo seven trials over 49 days after death. Only those who pass these trials in the seven hells of murder, sloth, deceit, injustice, betrayal, violence, and familial disloyalty can be reincarnated and begin a new life.
“Mr. Kim Ja-hong, you have successfully died as scheduled today.”
Firefighter Ja-hong, who died saving a young girl from a fire, finds himself confronted by afterlife guardians. Struggling to accept his death, Ja-hong is praised as a righteous deceased and a noble soul. This is a stroke of luck for Ja-hong’s three guardians, who were promised that if they help 49 souls reincarnate over a thousand years, they too will be granted reincarnation as humans. Ja-hong is their 48th soul and the first noble soul they’ve encountered in 19 years.
Based on the webtoon by author Joo Ho-min, this film was planned from the beginning as a two-part series: “Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds” and “Along with the Gods: The Last 49 Days.” Both films achieved major box office success, setting new records in the history of Korean cinema with each surpassing ten million viewers.
24. Inside Men (2015): 7.9
An influential presidential candidate and a chaebol chairman are the masters of their universe. Their efforts, to no small degree, are supported by political thug Ahn Sang-goo (Lee Byung-hun). And behind the scenes of their backdoor deals is renowned columnist Lee Kang-hee (Baek Yoon-sik), who holds sway over public opinion in South Korea.
Hungry for greater success, Ahn Sang-goo attempts to leverage their slush fund files for his own gain, but his plans are uncovered, leaving him a broken man.
Prosecutor Woo Jang-hoon (Cho Seung-woo) has always been overlooked for promotions due to his lack of connections and pedigree. He finally gets his chance as the lead investigator in a major slush fund investigation just before the presidential election. However, when Ahn Sang-goo intercepts the files, the investigation collapses, and Woo Jang-hoon is demoted, shouldering the blame.
Determined to avenge himself against those who ruined him, Ahn Sang-goo teams up with Woo Jang-hoon. In this intricate game of power, betrayal, and revenge, who will be the last one standing? “Inside Men” delves into the scandals of Korea’s elite, hinting that reality might be even more sordid than commoners imagine.
25. Mal-Mo-E (2019): 7.9
The film “Mal-Mo-E” portrays the poignant tale of ordinary individuals coming together in the 1940s, a time when the Japanese colonial regime banned the use of Korean. In 1941, Kim Pan-su faces a crisis as his son Deok-jin’s school tuition is due, leading him to attempt stealing a bag from Jung-hwan at Keijo Station, only to fail and be forced out of his job at Dae Dong Ah Theatre. Later, Pan-su goes for an interview at the Korean Language Society introduced by Teacher Jo, where the representative happens to be none other than Jung-hwan.
“Mal-Mo-E” is a Korean term meaning ‘dictionary’ and this film is based on a beautiful true story. While there are many films about the independence movement during the Japanese colonial era, this film stands out for focusing on Hangul, a Korean native script. Watch it with your entire family, and as you watch the illiterate Yoo learn to read and write, you’ll all be inspired to learn more Korean!
26. Okja (2017): 7.9
A South Korean-American co-production, “Okja” is a family-friendly film by the acclaimed director Bong Joon-Ho and is probably among the best-known Korean movies on Netflix. The story of “Okja” centers around the story of a pig that has been genetically engineered to be of massive size and to produce pork of the finest quality.
Many such pigs were distributed by a company all over the world to farmers, and the one that turned out to be the best of the lot is the eponymous pig, Okja. When the company takes Okja away, her owner, a little girl called Mija, decides to rescue Okja from being slaughtered. This takes Mija from her small village to Seoul, and from there to the United States.
A highly entertaining watch, “Okja” is very different from what we have come to associate with Bong Joon-Ho. The film is smartly written, has its moments of brilliance, and is certainly one of the best Korean movies on Netflix.
27. The Handmaiden (2016): 7.9
This R-rated suspense tale is not for the faint of heart. A visually stunning work of cinematography, “The Handmaiden” is a story of love and betrayal set when Korea was under the Japanese occupation. There are many twists and turns in this Korean movie that stars Kim Tae-ri in a role that will shock many who saw her as the prudish and proper Aegi-ssi in “Mr. Sunshine”.
28. New World (2013): 7.9
“New World” is a stylish gangster film that proves that Lee Jung-jae is not only a veteran of the big screen but has somehow also managed not to age in a decade. Set in the gritty underworld of modern Korean organized crime, the story follows Ja-sung (Lee Jung-jae), as an undercover police officer who is torn between his duty to the law and his loyalty to his criminal “family.”
“New World” is a thought-provoking Korean crime thriller that is well worth watching, though viewers should expect the violence and gore that can be expected with films of this genre.
29. Decision to Leave (2022): 7.9
What unfolds when suspicion turns into obsession? Acclaimed director Park Chan-wook, known for “Oldboy” and “The Handmaiden” and winner of the Cannes Best Director award in 2022, returns with a mesmerizing romantic thriller that showcases his distinctive style at its most captivating.
Detective Hae-joon (Park Hae-il) arrives at a murder scene and begins to suspect that the victim’s wife, Seo-rae (Tang Wei), harbors secrets. As Hae-joon delves deeper into the case, he becomes entangled in a labyrinth of deceit and passion, revealing that the darkest enigmas reside within the human heart.
30. The Man Standing Next (2020): 7.9
The story unfolds in 1979, amidst the 18-year authoritarian reign of South Korean President Park, focusing on his relationship with his trusted aide. Kim Gyu-pyung, head of the Korean Central Intelligence Agency (KCIA), grapples with doubts about the president’s intentions yet remains fiercely loyal. When the former KCIA director flees to the United States with a trove of classified information, Kim Jong-eun is tasked with suppressing the truth. However, as the government’s deceitful schemes unravel, tensions escalate, alliances falter, and the once unassailable leadership confronts the harsh reality that even the mighty are mortal.
The film depicts a pivotal moment in South Korean history: the assassination of President Park Chung-hee on October 26, 1979, marking one of the nation’s most significant historical events. It unfolds over the course of approximately 40 days leading up to that fateful day.
31. Coin Locker Girl (2015): 7.9
A baby is found abandoned inside a coin locker at Western Seoul train station in 1996. A beggar takes her and names her Il-young (Kim Go-eun). But when she turns 10, Il-young is taken by a corrupt detective who sells her off (as part of a loan shark payment) to a woman referred to simply as Mother (Kim Hye-soo). Mother runs a loan shark and organ trafficking crime ring in Chinatown, Incheon. Infamously ruthless, she has held on to her position of power by keeping by her side only those of use to her.
Mother decides to raise the young child after Il-young shows toughness and smarts, eventually grooming her for a position in the organization as a debt collector. One day, Il-young must collect from Suk-hyun (Park Bo-gum), the son of a debtor. She is initially taken aback when Suk-hyun shows her kindness and shares his own struggles. But when his father flees from his debt, Mother orders her to kill Suk-hyun.
Unexpected twists follow as Il-young contemplates eliminating the first and only friend she has ever known.
32. Exhuma (2024): 7.9
In Los Angeles, the shaman Hwalim and Bonggil receive a lucrative commission and encounter the eldest son of a household plagued by a mysterious illness. Realizing the ominous significance of the ancestral grave site, Hwalim advises a relocation, and they are joined by the top feng shui expert Sangdeok and the funeral director Younggeun. A mysterious gravesite shrouded in an aura where no one should be buried. Although Sangdeok senses an ominous presence and initially declines the offer, persuasion from Hwalim eventually leads to the commencement of the exhumation. Revealing what should never have emerged.
Director Jang Jae-hyun debuted with “The Priests” (2015), lauded for its craftsmanship. His follow-up, “Svaha” (2019), also garnered acclaim. Both were finely executed occult horror films, and his latest, “Exhuma,” continues in this genre. (He wrote the screenplay for all three.) “Exhuma” notably became the first Korean occult film to surpass one million viewers.
33. Sunny (2011): 7.9
“My Friend, Our Memories ‘Sunny’
The brightest moment, we were all together!”
Nami, a transfer student from Jeolla Province’s Beolgyo, becomes a target for teasing on her first day due to her explosive dialect when nervous. However, a group of extraordinary friends comes to her aid: loyalty queen Chun-hwa, tomboy Rose risking her life with double eyelids, leader of the cursing battles Jin-hee, literary girl Geum-ok with super strength, dimension-hopping dreamer Bok-hee aspiring to be Miss Korea, and the haughty Ice Princess Suzy. Joining them, Nami uses her grandmother’s inherited dialect skills to triumph in a showdown against rival group ‘Girls’ Generation’ at the school festival. The seven close friends swear to stay together forever, forming the ‘Sunny’ group, but on the day of the festival, an unexpected accident scatters them.
Twenty-five years later, Nami, now with a successful husband and a beautiful daughter, feels something is missing, just two percent short of fulfillment. One day, she reunites joyfully with Chun-hwa, ‘Sunny’ leader, and resolves to find the other members. Breaking free from her routine tied to family, Nami embarks on a journey to reunite with her friends from the past, recalling the dazzling friendship of those happiest moments.
34. Assassination (2015): 7.9
In 1933, a time when the homeland was lost, the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea designated three individuals for a critical assassination mission, ensuring they remained hidden from the Japanese. These operatives are Ahn Ok-yun, a sniper from the Korean Independence Army; Sok-sapo, a graduate of the New Military Academy; and Hwang Deok-sam, an explosives expert.
Yeom Seok-jin, head of the Provisional Government’s police department and a trusted confidant of Kim Gu, is tasked with locating them. Their targets are Kawaguchi Mamoru, the commander of the Japanese forces in Korea, and Kang In-guk, a pro-Japanese collaborator. Meanwhile, a contract killer known as Hawaii Pistol hired for a substantial sum, is on their trail.
Their unpredictable fates intertwine as they pursue the mission to assassinate the pro-Japanese collaborators.
This film focuses on the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea’s mission to eliminate pro-Japanese collaborators during the Japanese colonial period. Inspired by a real assassination attempt in March 1932 on Ugaki Kazushige, the Japanese Army General and Governor-General of Korea, the film notably highlights Kim Won-bong, a relatively underappreciated figure in the history of the independence movement.
35. The Attorney (2013): 7.9
In the early 1980s in Busan, Song Woo-seok (played by Song Kang-ho) is a tax lawyer with no connections, no money, and limited education. Despite these challenges, he excels with his exceptional business acumen, becoming the most successful and wealthy lawyer in Busan, handling everything from real estate registrations to tax consultations. He is even scouted by major corporations and is on the brink of making a national debut as a lawyer.
However, Song’s career takes an unexpected turn when he learns that Jin-woo (played by Im Si-wan), the son of a rice soup restaurant owner who helped him out seven years ago, is involved in a serious incident and is facing trial. Unable to ignore the desperate plea of Jin-woo’s mother, Soon-ae (played by Kim Young-ae), Song offers to at least visit Jin-woo in detention. Shocked by Jin-woo’s condition, Song decides to take on the case that everyone else is avoiding.
“I’ll do it, as his lawyer. I will take on this case.”
This film chronicles the life of a human rights lawyer active in Busan during the 1980s. It is inspired by former President Roh Moo-hyun and the Burim case he defended.
36. Escape from Mogadishu (2021): 7.8
To secure South Korea’s membership in the UN, Ambassador Han Sin-seong arranged a meeting with the Somali president in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. En route with gifts for the president, provided by South Korean NIS agent Kang Dae-jin, they were ambushed by Somali rebels. The rebels stole the gifts and damaged their car, forcing them to proceed on foot. Despite their efforts, they missed the appointment and the meeting was canceled.
Ambassador Han suspected North Korean Ambassador Rim Yong-su orchestrated the sabotage, leading to heightened tensions between the North and South. Amidst this political friction, South Korea’s Kang Dae-jin and North Korea’s Tae Joon-gi clashed intensely.
Meanwhile, Somalia descended into chaos due to uncontrollable riots led by rebels. In the midst of this turmoil, the South Korean embassy, with assistance from Somali police, managed to safeguard its premises. However, the North Korean embassy was attacked by rebels, leaving its staff with no choice but to seek refuge at the South Korean embassy.
In the extreme chaos of Mogadishu, can the North and South work together to escape? Based on real events, “Escape from Mogadishu” proves the adage that truth is sometimes stranger than fiction.
37. The Outlaws (2017): 7.8
In 2004, a gang fight erupts in Garibong-dong’s Chinatown, where Detective Ma Suk-do (Played by Don Lee) intervenes, seizing a knife used as evidence. Subsequently, he links the crime to a stabbing at a billiards hall involving the Doksa gang. Pursuing justice, Suk-do raids the Doksa’s hideout apprehends the culprit, and brokers a fragile peace between rival factions.
Tensions escalate when the Doksa leader faces brutal punishment from the Heukryong faction over a debt, leading to deadly retaliation. Suk-do tries to maintain order amidst escalating violence, including incidents at a nightclub owned by Hwang Chun-sik, whose brother is gravely injured. As Suk-do tracks the Heukryong, chaos ensues during a raid, resulting in injuries to Detective Kang Hong-seok and the escape of the Heukryong members.
The conflict intensifies as Jang Chen takes over the Isupa’s arcade, sparking further retaliation. Suk-do intervenes, capturing Jang Chen’s lieutenant at a critical moment. Amidst these tensions, a tragic turn occurs at Jang Yi-soo’s mother’s birthday celebration, where Jang Chen kills Yi-soo. With tensions escalating, how will Suk-do resolve this volatile situation?
38. Broker (2022): 7.8
The film follows a couple of baby brokers who sell orphaned infants on the black market to affluent couples. Complications arise when one of the babies’ mothers return in order to ensure that her child finds a happy home. The three adults, with infant in tow, then set forth on their mission and in the process forges an odd family of their own.
Meanwhile, Detective Soo-jin (played by Bae Doona) and her junior partner, Detective Lee (played by Lee Joo-young), who have been monitoring the entire process, quietly follow them, aiming to catch them red-handed and conclude their six-month investigation. Thus begins an unexpected and special journey for those who unintentionally met at the baby box.
39. The Way Home (2002): 7.7
Taking a train, then a bus, and walking along a dusty country road, seven-year-old Sang-woo and his mother head to his grandmother’s house. Due to financial difficulties, Sang-woo’s mother decides to leave him with his grandmother for a while. Sang-woo is left at his grandmother’s remote country house, where she lives alone and cannot speak or read. Coming from a world of electronic games and rollerblades, Sang-woo finds the village shop that doesn’t sell batteries, the rocky yard, and the dark outhouse to be the first hardships he has ever faced.
The grandmother never scolds her mischievous grandson. But the more time they spend together, the more Sang-woo finds ways to trouble his grandmother. He steals a silver hairpin from her hair while she sleeps to buy batteries, and rides his rollerblades noisily next to her while she mends socks.
One day, craving fried chicken, Sang-woo uses all kinds of gestures to explain to his grandmother what he wants. Just when it seems like they are finally communicating, she returns from the market with a chicken she cooks into boiled chicken, not the fried chicken Sang-woo had hoped for. Can this odd couple be anything other than disastrous roommates?
40. Road to Boston (2023): 7.7
At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Korean marathoner Sohn Kee-chung, set a world record and won a gold medal for Japan as Son Kitei. On the medal podium he covered the Japanese flag on his chest with a potted plant. Overnight, he became a national hero, but that action prompted the Japanese government, which colonized Korea from 1910-1945, to ban Sohn from competitive running.
In 1947 post-liberation Seoul, the Korean hero of the Berlin Olympics, makes a proposal to running prodigy Seo Yun-bok, who is highly regarded as the second Sohn Kee-chung. Training together, Sohn and Seo begin their road to the Boston Marathon, and the road to Korea’s first Olympics in 1948.
41. Train to Busan (2016): 7.6
Suk-woo (played by Gong Yoo), a fund manager, boards a train to Busan with his daughter. Meanwhile, an unidentified virus spreads nationwide, prompting South Korea to declare a state of emergency. The virus, previously only seen on the news, infiltrates the train.
To survive, Suk-woo, along with Seong-kyeong (Jung Yu-mi), Sang-hwa (Ma Dong-seok), Su-an (Kim Su-an), Yong-suk (Kim Eui-sung), and others, each endures in their own ways. The distance from Seoul to Busan is 442 kilometers. The extreme battle to protect their loved ones and those they wish to save begins now. Will they make it to Busan safely?
42. Joint Security Area (2000): 7.6
In the early hours of October 28, a gunfight erupts at Panmunjom, resulting in the fatal shooting of North Korean guard Jeong Woo-jin. Following this incident, the North and South present conflicting statements, each offering differing accounts of what transpired.
The case is referred to Sophie, a Joint Security officer, to investigate. Coming to Korea for the first time, she faces significant challenges from the outset.
“Joint Security Area” is based on the novel “DMZ” by Park Sang-hyun. The film centers around a mysterious incident at Panmunjom, where a soldier is killed while on duty. As investigators collect testimonies from various soldiers present at the scene, hidden secrets begin to surface.
The film masterfully portrays the tragedy of the North-South division, creating an extraordinary level of immersion and tension. With the outstanding performances of the cast, “JSA” is a gripping thriller that captivates audiences from start to finish, ensuring there is never a dull moment. It stands as a true cinematic masterpiece.
43. I Saw the Devil (2010): 7.6
Soo-hyun (Played by Lee Byung-hun), head of the National Intelligence Service’s security team, receives a troubling call from his fiancée, Joo-yeon, stranded with a flat tire. She mentions a stranger offering assistance, sparking Soo-hyun’s unease. Little did he know, this would be their final conversation—Joo-yeon encounters serial killer Jang Kyung-chul (Played by Choi Min-shik), who gruesomely murders her. Adding to the tragedy, she was pregnant with Soo-hyun’s child, a revelation he hadn’t known.
Consumed by guilt, Soo-hyun takes a leave of absence to pursue justice. As Soo-hyun and the killer engage in a battle of wits and skills, Soo-hyun faces the daunting question: must he become as ruthless as the killer to achieve justice?
This film grips you from the outset with its intense brutality and horror, immersing you in a visceral confrontation with pure evil. It’s a chilling crime thriller that keeps you on edge, prompting reflection on the outcomes and motivations, delivering a haunting and suspenseful journey into the depths of vengeance.
44. The Thieves (2012): 7.5
A Korean team of thieves—Poppai, Yennicol, Chipdeongkem, and Jepano—find themselves lured into a new heist plan in Hong Kong by their former partner Macau Park from Macau. Their group is unexpectedly joined by the just-released safe cracker Papsi, all dreaming of their biggest score yet in Hong Kong. Waiting for them in Hong Kong are four skilled Chinese thieves—Chen, Andrew, Julie, and Johnny—who eye their Korean counterparts with suspicion amidst escalating tension.
In this tightly wound suspense, Macau Park reveals their target: the fabled “Tears of the Sun” diamond hidden in a Macau casino. Despite the immense risk and uncertain success, drawn by a $20 million offer, they dive into the heist.
The film initially drew comparisons to “Ocean’s Eleven”. What set it apart was their exploration of betrayal amidst collaboration as thieves, adding depth to the storyline. Whether by design or fate, this complexity defined the film’s essence.
45. Concrete Utopia (2023): 7.5
“Concrete Utopia” opens with a riveting visual narrative, tracing Seoul’s remarkable journey from post-war ruins to becoming one of the costliest real estate markets in the world. This frenzied period of phenomenal economic growth allowed many Seoulites to get rich overnight just by buying and selling their precious apartments. This backdrop sets the stage for an apocalyptic twist when an earthquake devastates the city, leaving survivors to seek shelter in the only remaining apartment building standing in the city.
“Concrete Utopia,” was one of the biggest hits at the Korean box office in 2023 and is now streaming globally on Viki Rakuten. A solid addition to the post-apocalyptic genre, the film is based on a webtoon called “Cheerful Outcast”. Under the direction of Um Tae-hwa, the film stars Lee Byung-hun in a standout role as the appointed leader. Accompanying Lee is a talented ensemble including Park Bo-young and Kim Sun-young (“Reply 1988”), alongside Park Seo-joon of “Itaewon Class” fame, whose talent is sadly underutilized in this film.
46. The Berlin File (2013): 7.5
While monitoring illegal arms trading in Berlin, NIS agent Jung Jin-soo (Played by Han Suk-kyu) discovers the presence of North Korean secret agent Pyo Jong-seong (Played by Ha Jung-woo). In his pursuit to uncover Pyo Jong-seong’s identity, Jung Jin-soo uncovers a vast international conspiracy. Meanwhile, Dong Myeong-seong (Played by Ryu Seung-beom), aiming to eliminate Pyo Jong-seong and take control of Betelin, frames Pyo Jong-seong’s wife, Yeon Jung-hee (Played by Jun Ji-hyun), as a traitor. Pyo Jong-seong, chasing after Yeon Jung-hee to prove her innocence, learns of a conspiracy involving North Korea and Dong Myeong-seong. Together with Jung Jin-soo, who was pursuing him, Pyo Jong-seong attempts to rescue his wife.
“The Berlin File,” now on Netflix, kicks off with a tense arms deal gone awry, plunging viewers into a gripping tale of espionage between North and South Korea. Starring Han Suk-kyu and Jun Ji-Hyun, alongside Ha Jung-woo’s award-winning performance, the film masterfully intertwines action with a poignant love story against the backdrop of Cold War-era Berlin. Filmed across Europe, Director Ryoo aimed for emotional depth akin to “The Bourne Identity,” exploring the solitude of spies. Released in 2013, it quickly became Korea’s highest-grossing action film, resonating with themes of Korean reunification amid global changes. Despite its intricate plot, the stellar cast ensures an immersive experience, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating its sequel.
47. Minari (2020): 7.5
Director Isaac Chung’s poignant semi-autobiographical drama, “Minari,” explores a rarely depicted facet of the American dream. Starring Steven Yeun as the patriarch, the film follows a Korean immigrant family’s journey from Los Angeles to rural Arkansas in the 1980s to pursue farming. Alongside Yeun, Yeri Han plays his wife, Monica, navigating the challenges of their new life with their spirited children Anne (Noel Kate Cho) and David (Alan Kim), as well as the irrepressible grandmother Soonja (Youn Yuh-jung).
“Minari” made history at the 2021 Academy Awards with six nominations, including Best Picture, marking the first nomination for an Asian American lead actor (Steven Yeun). Youn Yuh-jung also received acclaim, becoming the first Korean performer to win Best Supporting Actress for her role as the family’s grandmother. Writer-director Lee Isaac Chung, drawing from his own childhood, earned nominations for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. The film also received a nod for Best Original Score, completing its array of accolades at the awards.
48. Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2013): 7.5
This film is about the love between a mentally anguished father and his adorably lovely daughter. Unjustly prosecuted for murder and rape charges, Young-goo is imprisoned for murder and builds friendships with resolute criminals inside. In return, he smuggles his daughter into the prison to reunite with her.
In this heartfelt comedy, we delve into the bond between a father grappling with mental illness and his loving daughter. Despite his emotional turmoil, his deep affection for her is unmistakable, reciprocated by her unwavering love and understanding. Beneath their close relationship lies a poignant tale of a father unjustly accused of murder and rape, adding tragic depth to their narrative.
Set against the backdrop of prison life, the film seamlessly blends comedy with a somber atmosphere, revealing unexpected moments of humanity within confinement. Each character, from Ryu Seung-yong’s compelling portrayal of the father to Gal So-won’s endearing performance as the daughter, enriches the storyline. It emphasizes that true character transcends social status, reminding us of the value of simplicity and a compassionate heart, even amidst adversity.
49. The Wailing (2016): 7.5
After a mysterious outsider (Played by Jun Kunimura) arrives, a series of baffling incidents disrupts the village. While the police initially attribute the chaos to mass poisoning from wild mushrooms, rumors quickly spread that link everything to the stranger. Officer Jong-gu (Played by Kwak Do-won) meets Moo-myeong (Played by Cheon Woo-hee), a witness whose account solidifies his suspicions about the outsider. When Jong-gu’s daughter Hyo-jin (Played by Kim Hwan-hee) starts experiencing symptoms similar to the victims, Jong-gu grows increasingly desperate. He searches for the stranger and enlists the help of shaman Il-gwang (Played by Hwang Jung-min).
“The Wailing” delves into profound societal fears beyond mere supernatural horror within the South Korean film industry. This Korean horror thriller skillfully mixes supernatural dread with psychological tension, exploring a world where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.
50. Pandora (2016): 7.4
In a quaint village near the southern coast of Korea, the townspeople rely on the local nuclear power plant for their livelihood. Though many have nagging concerns about the safety of the plant it isn’t until an earthquake hits that people are forced to wake up and face the consequences of the decades of neglect that now put the entire nation at risk.
Based on a true story of widespread corruption in Korea’s nuclear facilities inspection certifications, “Pandora” explores the devastating risks that nuclear energy dependent countries like Korea take as a trade off for cheap energy. “Pandora” is a thrilling and moving story centered around a family that struggles to stay together through a disaster that threatens to end life not only for them but for their entire nation.
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