The Best Korean Movies Of All Time

In the past two decades, South Korea has become a major force in cinema, producing some of the most memorable and groundbreaking films of the 21st century. From poignant dramas to thrilling action flicks, these are some of the best Korean movies ever made.

1. Oldboy (2003)
   Oldboy is a 2003 South Korean neo-noir psychological thriller directed by Park Chan-wook. The film tells the story of Oh Dae-su, who is inexplicably imprisoned in a strange motel room for 15 years without explanation. When he is suddenly released, Dae-su embarks on a quest for vengeance to discover why he was held captive for so long. Oldboy is one of Park Chan-wook’s most acclaimed films and is often cited as one of the greatest movies of the 21st century. With its exciting plot twists and shocking violence, Oldboy is a must-see for any fan of Korean cinema.

2. The Host (2006)
   The Host is a 2006 South Korean monster film directed by Bong Joon-ho. The film follows the Park family, who are struggling to deal with a terrifying monster that has emerged from the Han River and is attacking people throughout the city. With its blend of comedy, horror, and family drama, The Host has become one of the most beloved Korean films of all time. The Host is often praised for its unique take on the monster movie genre and its commentary on South Korean society.

3. The Man From Nowhere (2010)
   The Man From Nowhere is a 2010 South Korean action thriller directed by Lee Jeong-beom. The film tells the story of Cha Tae-sik, a reclusive pawnshop keeper with a mysterious past who is drawn into a violent underworld of drug trafficking and organized crime. With its intense action sequences and thrilling plot twists, The Man From Nowhere is an adrenaline-filled ride from start to finish. The film was a major success in South Korea and is highly regarded as one of the best action films of the decade.

4. The Wailing (2016)
   The Wailing is a 2016 South Korean horror mystery directed by Na Hong-jin. The film follows a small rural village in South Korea where a mysterious virus has been infecting the locals and causing them to go insane. With its eerie atmosphere and unexpected plot twists, The Wailing is a cinematic masterpiece and one of the scariest movies of the 21st century. The Wailing is often praised for its unique blend of horror and mystery and its exploration of Korean folklore.

5. Parasite (2019)
   The Parasite is a 2019 South Korean black comedy directed by Bong Joon-ho. The film follows the Kim family, a poor family of four who infiltrate the wealthy household of the Park family and slowly begin to take over their lives. With its dark humor and social commentary, Parasite is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that has become one of the year’s most acclaimed movies. In 2020, Parasite became the first foreign language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.

These are just a few of the best Korean movies ever made. From thrilling action films to heartfelt dramas, South Korean cinema has something to offer fans of all genres. Whether you’re a horror, action, or comedy fan, there’s sure to be a Korean movie you’ll love.