Curious about the movies that made a splash in the South Korean market? Let's find out!
If you're a fan of South Korean films that master top-notch direction, mind-bending themes, gripping stories, and jaw-dropping cinematography, along with outstanding action sequences and stellar acting, these blockbuster Korean movies are a must-watch. They fulfil every craving for a solid blockbuster experience. Buckle up for a cinematic joyride!
$263M
At the top spot is the Academy Award-winning "Parasite," directed by Bong Joon-ho. This black comedy thriller features a stellar cast, including Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong, Choi Woo-shik, and more. The plot revolves around the struggling Kim family, who ingeniously infiltrate the affluent Park family in their quest for survival. What begins as a comedy takes a dark turn when their newfound positions come under threat, exploring themes of capitalism and class disparities in South Korea. With a global gross of over $263 million, "Parasite" clinched four Oscars at the 92nd Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film.
$138.3M
"The Admiral: Roaring Currents" is a gripping action war film directed by Kim Han-min, drawing inspiration from the historical Battle of Myeongnyang. Starring Choi Min-sik as Korean naval commander Yi Sun-sin, the movie unfolds as he bravely defends his nation with a mere 13 battleships against a formidable Japanese fleet of 300 ships. This cinematic gem took South Korea by storm, hitting 10 million admissions in just 12 days after its premiere and surpassing Avatar's South Korean viewership record of 13 million. It's an impressive spectacle that grossed $138.3 million worldwide at the box office.
$120M
Directed by Lee Byeong-heon, 'Extreme Job' is an action comedy featuring Ryu Seung-ryong, Lee Hanee, and Jin Seon-kyu as narcotics detectives facing a pivotal moment in their careers. To redeem themselves, they take on an undercover mission to nab a drug gang. Choosing a chicken restaurant as their stakeout spot, the plot takes an unexpected turn when their culinary venture becomes a surprising success. Deviating from their original mission, they decide to dive into the restaurant business, injecting a hilarious twist into the storyline. This comedy managed to rake in an impressive $120 million worldwide.
$109.4M
Kim Yong-hwa directs "Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds," the first installment of the fantasy action franchise. Similar to its sequel, the film features Ha Jung-woo, Cha Tae-hyun, and Ju Ji-hoon in lead roles. Although shot as one movie, it's presented in two parts. The storyline follows firefighter Kim Ja-hong, who dies on duty and is accompanied by three grim reapers guiding him through the underworld. He must undergo seven trials in 49 days to secure reincarnation. Grossing $109.4 million worldwide, it holds the title of the fourth-highest-grossing movie in South Korean film history
$99M
With a global box office of over $99 million, 'Ode To My Father' ranks as the fifth-highest-grossing movie in South Korean history. Under the direction of Yoon Je-kyoon, this emotional drama stars Hwang Jung-min and Yunjin Kim in key roles. The story follows the life of Yoon Deok-soo, an ordinary man, providing a sweeping portrayal of South Korean history from the 1950s to the present. The film explores significant events like the Korean War, the dispatch of nurses and miners to West Germany in the 1960s, and the Vietnam War. Through these historical backdrops, it paints a compelling picture of one man's journey amidst the turbulence of the times.
All the movies mentioned above are great choices for your South Korean blockbuster movie marathon! You've got a mix of action, drama, and comedy—perfect for a cinematic adventure. So, grab your favorite snacks, get comfy, and let the South Korean blockbusters entertain you on your movie date!
