Exploring the dynamism and diversity of South Korean cinema, we delve into the “Top 10 Korean Movies,” ranked by their audience numbers. Korean films, known for their unique blend of storytelling, emotion, and action, have captivated audiences worldwide. From the gripping historical drama “Roaring Currents” to the heart-wrenching “Miracle in Cell No. 7,” these films not only showcase cinematic excellence but also reflect the cultural and historical narratives of South Korea. Join us as we uncover the most popular Korean movies that have left an indelible mark on both domestic and international film enthusiasts.
10. The Roundup (1.29million audiences)
“The Roundup,” released in 2022, is a captivating South Korean action film directed by the skilled Lee Sang-yong. The film stars the formidable Ma Dong-seok, also known as Don Lee, who is renowned for his commanding screen presence. He is joined by a talented cast including Son Suk-ku and Choi Gwi-hwa, each contributing to the film’s dynamic and intense atmosphere.
This sequel to the 2017 hit “The Outlaws” has attracted a massive audience, solidifying its status as a major success in the Korean film industry. Its appeal is not just limited to domestic viewers but extends to an international audience as well, demonstrating the global reach of Korean cinema.
The plot of “The Roundup” is both thrilling and engaging, following the story of a detective, Ma Seok-do (played by Ma Dong-seok), who travels to Vietnam to extradite a criminal. However, upon his arrival, he discovers a much darker and more complex criminal underworld. The film delves into intense action sequences and a gripping storyline that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
The narrative is well-crafted, balancing action with a detailed exploration of its characters and their motivations. The direction by Lee Sang-yong is commendable, as he skillfully orchestrates high-octane action scenes while maintaining a coherent and engaging story.
“The Roundup” is a film that showcases the best of Korean action cinema, combining excellent performances, a compelling narrative, and masterful direction. It stands as a testament to the growing influence and quality of South Korean films on the global stage.
9. Assassination(1.27million audiences)
“Assassination,” released in 2015, is a gripping South Korean action film directed by Choi Dong-hoon. The film features a star-studded cast including Jun Ji-hyun, Lee Jung-jae, and Ha Jung-woo. These actors deliver compelling performances that drive the film’s intense and engaging narrative.
“Assassination” attracted a significant audience, both domestically and internationally, highlighting its broad appeal. The movie’s success is a testament to its captivating storyline and the strong performances of its cast.
The film’s plot is set in the 1930s, during the Japanese occupation of Korea. It revolves around a group of Korean resistance fighters and their high-stakes mission to assassinate key figures of the Japanese occupation. The narrative weaves together elements of intrigue, betrayal, and complex character dynamics, all set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Korean history.
“Assassination” is praised for its well-constructed plot, which balances action-packed sequences with deeper emotional and political layers. The film skillfully blends historical context with fictional elements, resulting in an engrossing story that captivates viewers from start to finish.
Overall, “Assassination” is a notable example of South Korean cinema’s ability to create compelling, action-packed films that are also rich in historical and emotional depth. It stands out as a film that not only entertains but also provides a glimpse into a significant era in Korean history.
8. Miracle in Cell No.7 (1.28million audiences)
“Miracle in Cell No. 7,” released in 2013, is a deeply touching South Korean film directed by Lee Hwan-kyung. The film features an impressive ensemble cast, including Ryu Seung-ryong, Kal So-won, and Park Shin-hye. These actors bring to life a story that is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, resonating with audiences worldwide.
This film has reached a wide audience, garnering acclaim both in South Korea and internationally, thanks to its powerful storytelling and emotional depth.
Set against the backdrop of a prison, the movie follows the story of a mentally challenged man wrongfully imprisoned for murder. Inside the prison, he forms an unlikely family with his fellow inmates, who come together to help him reunite with his young daughter. The plot navigates themes of injustice, friendship, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter.
“Miracle in Cell No. 7” combines elements of drama, comedy, and tragedy to create a film that is not only entertaining but also deeply moving. It’s a film that showcases the strength of human spirit and the power of love in the face of adversity.
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7. 12.12: THE DAY (1.28million audiences of Jan. 2024)
“12.12: The Day,” released in 2023, is a South Korean historical action drama film directed by Kim Sung-su. The film, set against the backdrop of the 12 December 1979 military coup, features a star-studded cast including Hwang Jung-min, Jung Woo-sung, Lee Sung-min, Park Hae-joon, and Kim Sung-kyun. It became the highest-grossing Korean film of 2023, capturing the interest of a wide audience. The film’s narrative revolves around the events following President Park’s assassination, depicting the coup led by security commander Chun Doo-gwang and the ensuing conflict with Major General Lee Tae-shin. The movie combines real events with fictional elements, creating a compelling story that resonates with viewers.
6. The Thieves (1.29million audiences)
“The Thieves,” released in 2012, is a South Korean heist film directed by Choi Dong-hoon. The film stars an ensemble cast that includes Kim Yoon-seok, Lee Jung-jae, Kim Hye-soo, Jun Ji-hyun, and Simon Yam. This thrilling and stylish movie became immensely popular, drawing in a significant number of audiences in South Korea and across the world.
The story revolves around a group of South Korean thieves who team up with a Hong Kong crew to steal a diamond necklace from a heavily-guarded casino in Macau. The plot thickens as the team members, each with their own motives, start to double-cross each other. “The Thieves” is known for its fast-paced action, witty dialogue, and intricate plot twists.
The movie skillfully combines elements of action, comedy, and drama, making it an engaging and entertaining film. “The Thieves” has been praised for its direction, engaging narrative, and the performances of its cast, and stands out as a high point in South Korean cinema.
5. Veteran (1.34million audiences)
“Veteran,” released in 2015, is a South Korean action-comedy film directed by Ryu Seung-wan. The film showcases an impressive cast, including Hwang Jung-min, Yoo Ah-in, and Jang Yoon-ju. It became a major box office success, drawing in a large audience both domestically and internationally.
The movie’s plot centers around Seo Do-cheol, a tough and relentless detective, who takes on a young, arrogant, wealthy antagonist, Jo Tae-oh. The narrative unfolds as Do-cheol investigates Tae-oh’s high-level connections and criminal activities, leading to an intense cat-and-mouse game between the two. “Veteran” is celebrated for its thrilling action sequences, humor, and the strong performances of its lead actors. It offers a critique of social and economic disparities, making it both an entertaining and thought-provoking film.
4. Ode to My Father (1.42million audiences)
“Ode to My Father,” released in 2014, is a heartwarming South Korean drama directed by Yoon Je-kyoon. The film stars Hwang Jung-min, who delivers a moving performance as the protagonist, Yoon Deok-soo. It captivated a large audience, resonating deeply with viewers for its emotional depth and historical relevance.
The film provides a poignant look at modern Korean history through the eyes of Deok-soo, who is separated from his father and sister during the Hungnam Evacuation in the Korean War. The story follows Deok-soo’s life journey as he fulfills his promise to take care of his family.
“Ode to My Father,” released in 2014 and directed by Yoon Je-kyoon, is a poignant South Korean drama that has touched the hearts of many. Starring Hwang Jung-min as Yoon Deok-soo, the film takes audiences on a journey through the pivotal moments of modern Korean history. It starts with the Hungnam Evacuation during the Korean War, where Deok-soo gets separated from his father and sister. As he navigates life’s challenges, Deok-soo’s unwavering commitment to his family, amidst the backdrop of a rapidly changing Korea, forms the core of the narrative. The film resonates deeply with its
“Ode to My Father,” released in 2014, is a touching South Korean drama directed by Yoon Je-kyoon. It stars Hwang Jung-min in the lead role as Yoon Deok-soo. This emotionally charged film has resonated deeply with a vast audience, making it a standout in the Korean film industry.
The movie’s narrative traverses through the tumultuous periods of Korean history, as seen through Deok-soo’s life. It begins with the harrowing Hungnam Evacuation during the Korean War, where Deok-soo is separated from his father and sister. This separation marks the beginning of a lifelong promise to care for his family. The story chronicles Deok-soo’s various roles throughout his life, against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving Korea.
“Ode to My Father” is a poignant reflection on familial bonds, sacrifice, and the relentless spirit of an ordinary man navigating the tides of historical upheavals. The film is celebrated for its heartwarming portrayal of a man’s dedication to his family amidst national and personal challenges.
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3. Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds (1.44million audiences)
“Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds,” released in 2017, is a South Korean fantasy-action film directed by Kim Yong-hwa. The film features a diverse cast including Ha Jung-woo, Cha Tae-hyun, Ju Ji-hoon, and Kim Hyang-gi. It attracted a large audience, making it one of the highest-grossing Korean films of its time.
The film’s narrative revolves around a firefighter who, after his death, is guided by three guardians through the afterlife. He must pass a series of trials to prove his innocence in life and earn his reincarnation. The movie explores themes of justice, morality, and redemption in a visually stunning afterlife setting.
“Along With the Gods: The Two
“Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds,” released in 2017, is an acclaimed South Korean fantasy-action film directed by Kim Yong-hwa. The movie stars an ensemble cast including Ha Jung-woo, Cha Tae-hyun, Ju Ji-hoon, and Kim Hyang-gi. It emerged as one of the highest-grossing films in Korea due to its engaging narrative and stunning visuals.
The story unfolds around a deceased firefighter who undergoes trials in the afterlife, accompanied by three guardians. These trials are designed to examine his life and determine his
“Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds,” released in 2017 and directed by Kim Yong-hwa, is a captivating South Korean fantasy-action film. The movie boasts a talented cast, including Ha Jung-woo, Cha Tae-hyun, Ju Ji-hoon, and Kim Hyang-gi. It achieved widespread acclaim and significant commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing Korean films at the time of its release.
The plot follows a heroic firefighter who, after his death, is escorted by three guardian deities through a series of trials in the afterlife. These trials aim to assess his life’s deeds to determine his eligibility for reincarnation. The narrative intricately weaves themes of justice, morality, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a visually stunning and imaginative afterlife.
“Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds” stands out for its unique blend of gripping storytelling, special effects, and deep philosophical questions about life and death. The film’s success led to the creation of a sequel, further expanding its intriguing universe and exploring the guardians’ own backstories.
2. Extreme Job (1.63million audiences)
“Extreme Job,” released in 2019, is a South Korean action-comedy film directed by Lee Byeong-heon. The film stars Ryu Seung-ryong, Lee Hanee, Jin Seon-kyu, Lee Dong-hwi, and Gong Myung. It became an instant hit, recording as one of the highest-grossing films in South Korea.
The story centers on a team of narcotics detectives who go undercover in a fried chicken joint to stake out an organized crime gang. The operation takes an unexpected turn when the chicken restaurant becomes incredibly popular. The film blends action and comedy, creating a unique and entertaining narrative that captivated a large audience.
“Extreme Job” is celebrated for its humor, thrilling action sequences, and the chemistry among its cast members. The film’s success led to its recognition not only in South Korea but also internationally.
1. Roaring Currents (1.76million audiences)
“Roaring Currents,” released in 2014, is a South Korean historical war film directed by Kim Han-min. The film features Choi Min-sik in the lead role, portraying the legendary Korean admiral Yi Sun-sin. “Roaring Currents” achieved phenomenal success, becoming one of the highest-grossing films in South Korean cinema history.
The movie is set during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598) and focuses on the Battle of Myeongnyang. Admiral Yi Sun-sin faces overwhelming odds against a formidable Japanese fleet with only a small number of ships at his command. The film showcases his strategic brilliance and heroic leadership in one of Korea’s most famous naval battles.
“Roaring Currents” captivates audiences with its intense naval combat scenes, dramatized portrayal of historical events, and the inspiring story of Admiral Yi’s leadership and tactics. The film’s success is a testament to its compelling storytelling, impressive cinematography, and powerful performances, particularly by Choi Min-sik.
