The Best Korean Action Movies Of All Time
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    • ABO Entertainment/The Roundup, I Saw The Devil/Showbox

The Best Korean Action Movies Of All Time

Ranker Film
Updated July 15, 2024 144.3K views 74 items
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2.8K voters
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Vote on the best Korean action films of all time.

Latest additions: Kill Boksoon, Jung_E, Concrete Utopia
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Over 2.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Korean Action Movies Of All Time

Immerse yourself in the dynamic and explosive realm of the best Korean action movies with our expertly curated rankings. Fuelled by the insight of fervent Korean movie enthusiasts, this selection stands as a definitive guide to the most riveting and pulse-pounding Korean action films out there. From the laugh-inducing escapades of Extreme Job to the gritty narrative of Veteran, our list includes the top Korean action movies that cater to every taste and predilection.

The entries span across eras, putting the spotlight on recently released gems and also paying homage to the timeless '90s south Korean movie classics that have indelibly enriched the genre. Titles such as The Villainess and The Outlaws not only add to the diversity of the Korean action landscape but are also easily accessible for aficionados to stream and enjoy.

The true essence of a great Korean action movie can be hard to pin down—is it the innovative action sequences, the engaging plotlines, or the allure of the leads? This question is answered through your participation as fans cast their votes, lifting the most deserving titles up the ranks.

Settle in for a cinematic adventure, and should you find any top Korean action films are conspicuously absent, you're invited to contribute to the list. Let's band together to honor the breathtaking spectacles and unyielding spirit that catapult Korean action cinema into a league of its own.

  • The Man from Nowhere
    1
    Won Bin, Kim Sae-ron, Young-chang Song
    914 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Lee Jung-beom

    The Man from Nowhere delivers a poignant tale of vengeance, wrapped in jaw-dropping fight scenes and breath-taking cinematography. Featuring Won Bin as a former special agent who embarks on a brutal quest for retribution after saving his young neighbor from kidnapping, this film has earned both critical praise and box-office success. Its unique blend of relentless action and powerful acting cements it as one of South Korea's most unforgettable cinematic experiences.

  • The Roundup
    2
    Ma Dong-seok, Son Seok-koo, Choi Gwi-hwa
    125 votes
    • Released: 2022
    • Directed by: Lee Sang-yong

    Engaging audiences with its gripping narrative and intense action sequences, The Roundup takes viewers on a thrilling journey from Vietnam to Korea. Directed by the talented Lee Sang-yong and featuring an ensemble cast consisting of Ma Dong-seok, Son Suk-ku, and Choi Gwi-hwa, the sequel expertly weaves together nail-biting suspense with emotional depth. Its captivating storyline and top-notch performances continue to solidify South Korea's reputation as a powerhouse in the action film genre.

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  • Train to Busan
    3
    Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok
    785 votes
    • Released: 2016
    • Directed by: Yeon Sang-ho

    Train to Busan is a masterfully crafted zombie thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Starring Gong Yoo as a father trying to protect his young daughter amidst a deadly zombie outbreak, the film expertly blends action-packed sequences with heart-wrenching moments of character development. This critically acclaimed gem not only changed the landscape of Korean cinema but also garnered international acclaim for its innovative take on the apocalypse narrative.

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  • The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil
    4
    Ma Dong-seok, Kim Mu-yeol, Kim Sung-kyu
    411 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Lee Won-tae

    In The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil, director Lee Won-tae presents an electrifying story involving an unlikely alliance between a cop (Kim Mu-yeol) and gangster (Ma Dong-seok), who team up to catch a sadistic serial killer (Kim Sung-kyu). With its fast-paced plot twists, incredible performances by the lead actors, and high-stakes chase scenes reminiscent of classic American crime thrillers, this movie packs quite a punch while showcasing the best that Korean cinema has to offer.

  • I Saw the Devil
    5
    Lee Byung-hun, Choi Min-sik, Jeon Gook-hwan
    401 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Kim Jee-woon

    I Saw the Devil is a visceral, unflinching tale of revenge that pushes boundaries in its depiction of violence and psychological warfare. Lee Byung-hun stars as a secret agent seeking retribution against the serial killer (Choi Min-sik) who murdered his fiancée. Directed by Kim Jee-woon, this dark and gripping movie has garnered both international praise and controversy for its unapologetic exploration of human depravity.

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  • Oldboy
    6
    Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jung
    410 votes
    • Released: 2003
    • Directed by: Park Chan-wook

    Oldboy is undoubtedly one of the most iconic South Korean films ever made, boasting unforgettable performances from Choi Min-sik as the tortured protagonist and Yoo Ji-tae as his nemesis. Directed by Park Chan-wook, this twisted tale of vengeance is packed with shocking twists, brutal action, and a haunting score that lingers long after the credits roll. Oldboy's unique storytelling and mesmerizing visuals have earned it a cult following around the world.

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  • Veteran
    7
    Hwang Jung-min, Yoo Ah-in, Yoo Hae-jin
    365 votes
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: Ryoo Seung-wan

    Veteran is an adrenaline-fueled action flick that keeps viewers captivated with its high-stakes story and stellar performances. Centered around a seasoned detective (Hwang Jung-min), who's determined to bring down a wealthy, untouchable criminal (Yoo Ah-in), the film expertly balances intense fight sequences with a keen sense of humor. Veteran's critical and commercial success propelled it to become one of South Korea's highest-grossing films.

  • The Chaser
    8
    Kim Yoon-seok, Ha Jung-woo, Seo Young-hee
    238 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: Na Hong-jin

    The Chaser is an exhilarating crime thriller featuring an ex-detective turned pimp (Kim Yoon-seok) who searches for missing women while being pursued by an ambitious police officer (Ha Jung-woo). Directed by Na Hong-jin, this fast-paced narrative deftly balances pulse-pounding chases with chilling suspense, making it one of South Korea's most memorable action movies. The Chaser received numerous accolades for its compelling storytelling and powerhouse performances.

  • The Outlaws
    9

    The Outlaws

    Ma Dong-seok, Yoon Kye-sang, Jo Jae-yoon
    312 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Kang Yoon-sung

    The Outlaws is a gritty crime thriller that takes viewers into the heart of Seoul's violent underworld. Starring Ma Dong-seok as a tough-as-nails detective determined to take down rival gangs vying for control over the city, this film features explosive action scenes punctuated by moments of dark humor. The Outlaws' unique blend of relentless brutality and charismatic characters has earned it both domestic acclaim and international recognition.

  • The Suspect
    10

    The Suspect

    Gong Yoo, Park Hee-soon, Gi Ju-bong
    189 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Won Shin-yun

    The Suspect is an edge-of-your-seat spy thriller featuring Gong Yoo as a North Korean defector framed for murder while trying to uncover the truth behind his family's deaths. This high-octane film boasts pulse-pounding chase scenes and adrenaline-fueled shootouts that keep viewers enthralled from start to finish. The Suspect's outstanding performances and intricate plot twists make it essential viewing for fans of Korean cinema.

  • Extreme Job
    11
    Ryu Seung-ryong, Lee Ha-nee, Jin Seon-kyu
    223 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Lee Byeong-heon

    Extreme Job is a hilarious yet action-packed comedy about five bumbling detectives who go undercover to bust a drug ring in Seoul. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Ryu Seung-ryong, Lee Hanee, and Jin Seon-kyu, this film expertly blends slapstick humor with thrilling action sequences. Extreme Job's undeniable charm and wide appeal garnered massive box-office success, making it one of the highest-grossing South Korean films of all time.

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  • A Bittersweet Life
    12
    Lee Byung-hun, Kim Yeong-cheol, Shin Min-ah
    197 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Kim Jee-woon

    A Bittersweet Life is an unforgettable neo-noir thriller that masterfully blends visceral violence with poignant character development. Lee Byung-hun stars as a cold-hearted enforcer who finds himself at odds with his boss over his loyalty and emotions. Directed by Kim Jee-woon, this stylishly brutal film has garnered widespread praise for its striking cinematography, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable performances.

  • The Host
    13
    Song Kang-ho, Byun Hee-bong, Park Hae-il
    209 votes
    • Released: 2006
    • Directed by: Bong Joon-ho

    The Host is a thrilling monster movie directed by Bong Joon-ho that masterfully combines social commentary with heart-pounding suspense. Starring Song Kang-ho as a man fighting to save his daughter from the clutches of a terrifying creature lurking in Seoul's Han River, this film deftly balances horror with heartfelt family drama. The Host's unique blend of genre elements and powerful storytelling has solidified its status as a modern classic in Korean cinema.

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  • The Villainess
    14
    Kim Ok-bin, Shin Ha-kyun, Sung-joon
    233 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Jeong Byeong-gil

    The Villainess is an electrifying revenge thriller that pushes boundaries with its brutal violence and innovative action sequences. Starring Kim Ok-vin as a highly skilled assassin seeking vengeance against those who betrayed her, this film's relentless pacing and jaw-dropping stunts have earned it comparisons to Hollywood blockbusters like Kill Bill and John Wick. The Villainess' unapologetic ferocity cements its place among the best South Korean action movies.

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  • Assassination
    15

    Assassination

    Jun Ji-hyun, Lee Jung-jae, Ha Jung-woo
    165 votes
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: Choi Dong-hoon

    Assassination is an explosive period piece set in 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule. The film stars Jun Ji-hyun as an elite sniper leading a group of resistance fighters on a deadly mission to assassinate key Japanese figures. With its stellar cast, riveting plot, and breathtaking action sequences spanning multiple countries, Assassination has captivated audiences worldwide and become one of South Korea's top-grossing films.

  • The Berlin File
    16
    Ha Jung-woo, Han Suk-kyu, Ryoo Seung-bum
    89 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Ryoo Seung-wan

    The Berlin File is a stylish and intense espionage thriller set against the backdrop of international politics. Starring Ha Jung-woo as a North Korean spy caught in a deadly conspiracy, the film showcases breathtaking action sequences and a complex web of intrigue. Directed by Ryoo Seung-wan, The Berlin File has earned critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and top-notch performances from its talented cast.

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  • Midnight Runners
    17
    Park Seo-joon, Kang Ha-neul, Park Ha-sun
    222 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Jason Kim

    Midnight Runners is an adrenaline-fueled action-comedy starring Park Seo-joon and Kang Ha-neul as two rookie police academy students who become vigilantes to solve a crime ignored by the authorities. With its perfect blend of hilarious banter, thrilling chase sequences, and heartwarming friendship moments, this movie has cemented itself as a fan favorite within the genre. Midnight Runners' charismatic cast members and entertaining storyline make it an instant classic.

  • The Good, the Bad, the Weird
    18
    Song Kang-ho, Lee Byung-hun, Jung Woo-sung
    196 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: Kim Jee-woon

    The Good, the Bad, the Weird is an action-packed homage to spaghetti westerns set in 1930s Manchuria. Directed by Kim Jee-woon and featuring an all-star cast led by Song Kang-ho, Lee Byung-hun, and Jung Woo-sung, this film follows three outlaws racing to find hidden treasure while being pursued by rival gangs and the Japanese army. Its exhilarating mix of shootouts, train heists, and larger-than-life characters makes it a must-watch for fans of both Korean cinema and classic westerns.

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  • The Great Battle
    19
    Jo In-sung, Nam Joo-hyuk, Park Sung-woong
    121 votes
    • Released: 2018
    • Directed by: Kim Kwang-sik

    The Great Battle is a gripping historical action-drama set during the 7th-century Goguryeo-Tang War. Starring Jo In-sung as a cunning strategist leading his troops against an invading army, this epic-scale film features breathtaking battle scenes and powerful performances. The Great Battle's impressive visuals and engaging narrative have garnered both critical praise and box-office success.

  • A Hard Day
    20
    Lee Sun-gyun, Cho Jin-woong, Shin Jung-geun
    123 votes
    • Released: 2014
    • Directed by: Kim Seong-hun

    A Hard Day is an electrifying crime thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with nail-biting suspense and exhilarating action sequences. Starring Lee Sun-kyun as a corrupt cop caught in an ever-tightening web of lies and deceit, this fast-paced movie expertly balances dark humor with high-stakes drama. A Hard Day's unique blend of tension and levity has solidified it as one of South Korea's most memorable cinematic experiences.

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  • Unstoppable
    21

    Unstoppable

    Ma Dong-seok, Song Ji-hyo, Kim Sung-oh
    189 votes
    • Released: 2018
    • Directed by: Kim Min-ho

    Unstoppable is an edge-of-your-seat action thriller that follows Ma Dong-seok as he fights to save his kidnapped wife from ruthless human traffickers. This high-octane film boasts pulse-pounding fight sequences complemented by touching moments of character growth. Unstoppable's non-stop intensity and Ma Dong-seok's commanding performance make it essential viewing for fans of Korean action movies.

  • The Yellow Sea
    22
    Ha Jung-woo, Cho Seong-ha, Kim Yun-seok
    125 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Na Hong-jin

    The Yellow Sea is a tense crime thriller that delves into the seedy underworld of human trafficking along the Russia-China-North Korea border. Starring Ha Jung-woo as a desperate cab driver entangled in a violent conspiracy, this film boasts grisly action scenes underscored by palpable despair. Directed by Na Hong-jin, The Yellow Sea's unrelenting bleakness and explosive set pieces make it essential viewing for fans of Korean cinema.

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  • New World
    23
    Lee Jung-jae, Choi Min-sik, Hwang Jung-min
    132 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Park Hoon-jung

    New World is an engrossing gangster epic that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and power dynamics within organized crime syndicates. Featuring captivating performances from Choi Min-sik, Hwang Jung-min, and Lee Jung-jae, this film expertly weaves together brutal violence with intricate character development. Directed by Park Hoon-jung, New World has earned widespread acclaim for its masterful storytelling and unforgettable performances.

  • Hwayi: A Monster Boy
    24
    Kim Yoon-seok, Cho Jin-woong, Jang Hyun-sung
    145 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Jang Joon-hwan

    Hwayi: A Monster Boy is a chilling coming-of-age thriller that explores the dark side of human nature. Starring Yeo Jin-goo as a young man raised by a group of notorious criminals, this film features brutal action scenes and haunting character development. Hwayi: A Monster Boy's compelling narrative and powerful performances make it a standout addition to the Korean thriller genre.

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  • #Alive
    25
    Yoo Ah-in, Park Shin-hye, Jeon Bae-soo
    209 votes
    • Released: 2020
    • Directed by: Il Cho

    #Alive is a tense zombie thriller that breathes new life into the genre with its innovative take on survival in the digital age. Starring Yoo Ah-in as a young gamer trapped in his apartment during a zombie outbreak, this movie combines heart-pounding suspense with emotional depth. #Alive's captivating storyline and engaging characters make it an essential watch for fans of South Korean cinema.

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  • Snowpiercer
    26
    Chris Evans, Song Kang-ho, Tilda Swinton
    152 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Bong Joon-ho

    Snowpiercer is an innovative sci-fi action film directed by Bong Joon-ho, starring Chris Evans, Song Kang-ho, and Tilda Swinton. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where Earth's remaining inhabitants live on a perpetually moving train divided by class, this groundbreaking film masterfully blends social commentary with intense action sequences. Snowpiercer's unique premise, star-studded cast, and thought-provoking themes have earned it both domestic and international acclaim.

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  • Night in Paradise
    27
    Uhm Tae-goo, Jeon Yeo-been, Cha Seung-won
    102 votes
    • Released: 2020
    • Directed by: Park Hoon-jung

    Night in Paradise is an atmospheric crime thriller that follows a hitman (played by Uhm Tae-goo) seeking solace on Jeju Island after betraying his ruthless criminal organization. As he forms an unlikely bond with a mysterious woman (Jeon Yeo-been), they find themselves pursued by relentless assassins led by Cha Seung-won. Night in Paradise's mesmerizing visuals, compelling performances, and haunting narrative make it a standout addition to the genre.

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  • Ballerina
    28
    Jeon Jong-seo, Kim Ji-hoon, Yoo-rim Park
    48 votes
    • Released: 2023
    • Directed by: Lee Chung-hyeon
    Grieving the loss of a best friend she couldn't protect, ex-bodyguard Ok-ju sets out to fulfill her dear friend's last wish: sweet, sweet revenge.

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  • The Admiral: Roaring Currents
    29
    Choi Min-sik, Ryu Seung-ryong, Cho Jin-woong
    109 votes
    • Released: 2014
    • Directed by: Kim Han-min

    The Admiral: Roaring Currents is an epic historical action film that brings to life the legendary story of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, who led a daring naval battle against overwhelming odds during the 16th-century Japanese invasion of Korea. Starring Choi Min-sik in a commanding performance as the eponymous hero, this movie features breathtaking maritime warfare sequences and an engaging narrative. The Admiral: Roaring Currents' impressive production values and thrilling action have made it one of South Korea's highest-grossing films.

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  • Steel Rain
    30
    Jung Woo-sung, Kwak Do-won, Kim Eui-sung
    83 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Yang Woo-suk

    Steel Rain is an exhilarating political action-thriller set on the brink of war between North and South Korea. Starring Jung Woo-sung as a North Korean defector who must work with a South Korean agent (played by Kwak Do-won) to prevent nuclear catastrophe, this film delivers breathtaking fight scenes alongside intricate espionage storytelling. Steel Rain's gripping plot, top-notch performances, and adrenaline-fueled pacing make it essential viewing for fans of Korean cinema.

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  • Cold Eyes
    31

    Cold Eyes

    Han Hyo-joo, Jung Woo-sung, Simon Yam
    117 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Cho Ui-seok, Kim Byeong-seo

    Cold Eyes is an intense crime thriller that follows the high-stakes cat-and-mouse game between an elite surveillance team (led by Han Hyo-joo) and a skilled group of bank robbers (headed by Jung Woo-sung). Packed with thrilling chase scenes and unexpected plot twists, this movie keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Cold Eyes' impressive ensemble cast and captivating storyline make it a must-watch for fans of Korean action cinema.

  • Hard Hit
    32
    Jo Woo-jin, Jin Kyung, Lee Jae-in
    48 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Kim Chang-ju

    Hard Hit is a thrilling action film that combines high-stakes drama with nail-biting suspense. Starring Jo Woo-jin as a bank manager who receives a mysterious phone call informing him that his car is rigged with a bomb, this movie keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as the protagonist races against time to save himself and his family. Hard Hit's relentless pacing, engaging plot, and top-notch performances make it an essential watch for fans of Korean action cinema.

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  • Inside Men
    33
    Lee Byung-hun, Cho Seung-woo, Baek Yoon-sik
    83 votes
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: Woo Min-ho

    Inside Men is an electrifying political thriller that delves into the tangled web of corruption between politicians, businessmen, and criminals in South Korea. Starring Lee Byung-hun as a ruthless gangster seeking revenge against the system that betrayed him, this gripping film boasts powerful performances and a complex narrative. Inside Men's unflinching exploration of power dynamics and its masterful storytelling have earned it widespread critical acclaim.

  • Lady Vengeance
    34
    Lee Young-ae, Song Kang-Ho, Choi Min-sik
    113 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Park Chan-wook

    Lady Vengeance is the final installment in director Park Chan-wook's lauded Vengeance Trilogy, featuring a captivating performance from Lee Young-ae as a wrongfully imprisoned woman seeking retribution upon her release. This dark and twisted tale of revenge boasts stunning visuals, haunting score, and memorable supporting characters. Lady Vengeance is a must-watch for fans of Oldboy and South Korean cinema as a whole.

  • War of the Arrows
    35
    Moon Chae-won, Jeon Min-seo, Park Ki-woong
    112 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Kim Han-min

    War of the Arrows is a gripping historical action film set during the 17th-century Manchu invasion of Korea. The movie follows a skilled archer (played by Park Hae-il) on a desperate mission to rescue his kidnapped sister while evading enemy forces led by an elite warrior (Ryoo Seung-ryong). With its stunning archery sequences, breathtaking cinematography, and engaging plot, War of the Arrows has captivated audiences worldwide.

  • The Thieves
    36
    Jun Ji-hyun, Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Hye-soo
    122 votes
    • Released: 2012
    • Directed by: Choi Dong-hoon

    The Thieves is an entertaining heist film packed with suspenseful twists and turns that keep audiences guessing until the very end. Featuring an all-star cast including Kim Yoon-seok, Lee Jung-jae, and Jun Ji-hyun, this movie seamlessly blends stylish action sequences with charismatic character dynamics reminiscent of Hollywood classics like Ocean's Eleven. The Thieves' clever plotting and outstanding ensemble performances have earned it both domestic acclaim and international success.

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  • Taegukgi
    37
    Jang Dong-gun, Won Bin, Lee Eun-ju
    68 votes
    • Released: 2004
    • Directed by: Kang Je-gyu

    Taegukgi is a heart-wrenching war drama that explores the devastating impact of the Korean War on two brothers forced to fight on opposite sides. Starring Jang Dong-gun and Won Bin, this emotionally charged film delivers intense battle scenes punctuated by moments of profound human connection. Taegukgi's powerful storytelling and unforgettable performances have made it one of South Korea's most highly regarded movies.

  • Time to Hunt
    38
    Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, Choi Woo-sik
    90 votes
    • Released: 2020
    • Directed by: Yoon Sung-hyun

    Time to Hunt is an exhilarating dystopian action-thriller set in a bleak future where four friends plan one last heist before escaping their crumbling society. Starring Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, Choi Woo-shik, and Park Jung-min, this edge-of-your-seat film delivers pulse-pounding chase scenes while exploring themes of friendship and survival. Time to Hunt's compelling storyline and dynamic visuals have made it essential viewing for fans of South Korean cinema.

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  • Escape from Mogadishu
    39
    Kim Yoon-seok, Jo In-sung, Heo Joon-ho
    41 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Ryoo Seung-wan

    Escape from Mogadishu is an adrenaline-fueled action-drama based on the true story of diplomats from North and South Korea who must band together to escape war-torn Somalia during the 1991 civil war. Starring Kim Yoon-seok, Zo In-sung, and Heo Joon-ho, this gripping film blends high-stakes political intrigue with heart-pounding action sequences. Escape from Mogadishu's compelling narrative and outstanding performances have earned it both critical acclaim and commercial success.

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  • The Divine Fury
    40
    Park Seo-joon, Ahn Sung-ki, Woo Do-hwan
    109 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Kim Joo-hwan

    The Divine Fury is a unique supernatural action film that follows a martial arts champion (played by Park Seo-joon) who gains divine powers to fight against demonic forces threatening humanity. Teaming up with an eccentric exorcist (Ahn Sung-ki), the duo embarks on a thrilling battle against evil. The Divine Fury's inventive premise, exhilarating action sequences, and engaging characters make it a must-watch for fans of South Korean cinema seeking something different within the genre.

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  • Silmido
    41
    Ahn Sung-ki, Uhm Tae-woong, Jung Yu-mi
    40 votes
    • Released: 2003
    • Directed by: Woo-seok Kang

    Silmido is an intense action-drama based on the true story of Unit 684, a secret military squad trained to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Il-sung in the late 1960s. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Sol Kyung-gu and Ahn Sung-ki, this gritty film delves into the dark side of patriotism and loyalty. With its powerful storytelling, realistic combat sequences, and thought-provoking themes, Silmido has earned widespread praise from both critics and audiences alike.

  • The Classified File
    42
    Kim Yoon-seok, Yoo Hae-jin, Jang Young-nam
    21 votes
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: Kwak Kyung-taek
    The Classified File is a 2015 South Korean crime drama film directed by Kwak Kyung-taek. A detective and a fortune teller join forces to find a kidnapped child whom none expects to be alive.
  • Shiri
    43
    Han Suk-kyu, Choe Min-shik, Song Kang-ho
    64 votes
    • Released: 1999
    • Directed by: Kang Je-Gyu

    Shiri is a groundbreaking espionage thriller that played a pivotal role in putting South Korean cinema on the global map. Starring Han Suk-kyu as a South Korean intelligence agent hunting down an enigmatic North Korean assassin (played by Kim Yun-jin), this movie delivers thrilling action scenes alongside intricate plot twists. Shiri's masterful storytelling, impressive visuals, and memorable performances have earned it widespread praise from both critics and audiences alike.

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  • Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance
    44
    Song Kang-ho, Bae Doona, Han Bo-bae
    45 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Park Chan-wook

    Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance is a darkly twisted tale of tragedy and retribution that marks the beginning of director Park Chan-wook's acclaimed Vengeance Trilogy. Starring Song Kang-ho as a desperate man seeking revenge after an illegal organ transplant goes awry, this film expertly balances brutal violence with moments of gut-wrenching emotion. Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance's unflinching exploration of human suffering has made it one of South Korea's most unforgettable cinematic experiences.

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  • The Chase
    45
    Baek Yoon-sik, Sung Dong-il, Chun Ho-jin
    41 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Kim Hong-seon
    The Chase is a 2017 South Korean crime thriller film directed by Kim Hong-seon. A landowner running a run-down apartment complex teams up with a retired ex-detective to chase after the suspect of a 30-year-old unsolved case.
  • Rampant
    46
    Hyun Bin, Jang Dong-gun, Lee Sun-bin
    109 votes
    • Released: 2018
    • Directed by: Kim Sung-hoon
    Rampant is a 2018 South Korean period zombie film directed by Kim Sung-hoon. Returning from imprisonment abroad, a prince and his fellow countrymen band together to battle bloodthirsty demons in ancient Korea.
  • The City of Violence
    47
    Ryoo Seung-wan, Jung Doo-hong, Lee Beom-soo
    31 votes
    • Released: 2006
    • Directed by: Ryoo Seung-wan
    The City of Violence is a 2006 South Korean crime action film directed by Ryoo Seung-wan. Three former childhood friends reunite for their friend's funeral, which prompts two of them vowing to find his murderer.
  • The Prison
    48
    Han Suk-kyu, Kim Rae-won, Jung Woong-in
    56 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Na Hyun
    The Prison is a 2017 South Korean prison action film directed by Na Hyun. A troubled ex-cop imprisoned for a hit-and-run accident discovers that the entire penitentiary is controlled by an inmate who has been running a crime syndicate with the help of the warden and guards which provides them 100% alibi.
  • The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure
    49
    Kang Ha-neul, Han Hyo-joo, Lee Kwang-soo
    46 votes
    • Released: 2022
    • Directed by: Kim Jeonghun
    A gutsy crew of Joseon pirates and bandits battle stormy waters, puzzling clues and militant rivals in search of royal gold lost at sea.

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  • Sinkhole
    50
    Cha Seung-won, Kim Sung-kyun, Lee Kwang-soo
    36 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Kim Ji-hoon

    Sinkhole is a thrilling disaster film that combines edge-of-your-seat action with biting social satire. Starring Cha Seung-won and Kim Sung-kyun as two ordinary men trapped in a collapsing building along with their neighbors, this movie expertly balances harrowing rescue attempts with poignant character development. Sinkhole's unique blend of suspenseful storytelling and dark humor makes it an essential watch for fans of South Korean cinema.

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  • The Battleship Island
    51
    Hwang Jung-min, So Ji-sub, Song Joong-ki
    57 votes
    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Ryoo Seung-wan
    The Battleship Island is a 2017 South Korean period action film directed by Ryoo Seung-wan. Roughly 400 Korean laborers try to escape from Battleship Island during the Japanese colonial era.
  • Midnight
    52
    Jin Ki-joo, Wi Ha-joon, Gil Hae-yeon
    70 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Kwon Oh-seung
    A serial killer ruthlessly hunts down a deaf woman through the streets of South Korea after she witnesses his brutal crime.

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  • Space Sweepers
    53
    Song Joong-ki, Kim Tae-ri, Jin Seon-kyu
    119 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Jo Sung-hee
    After snatching a crashed space shuttle in the latest debris chase, Spaceship Victory's crew members find a 7-year-old girl inside. They realize that she's the humanlike robot wanted by UTS Space Guards and decide to demand ransom in exchange.

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  • Confession of Murder
    54
    Park Shi Hoo, Kim Young-Ae, Jung Jae-young
    54 votes
    • Released: 2012
    • Directed by: Jung Byung-gil
    Confession of Murder is a 2012 South Korean crime action thriller film directed by Jung Byung-gil. When the statute of limitations expires on a series of high-profile murders, a young man emerges with a tell-all book, taking credit for the crimes.
  • kill it
    55

    kill it

    16 votes
  • Hostage: Missing Celebrity
    56
    Hwang Jung-min, Lee Ho-jung, Ji Nam-hyuk
    16 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Pil Kam-sung
    Hostage: Missing Celebrity is a 2021 South Korean reality action thriller film directed by Pil Kam-sung, based on 2015 Chinese film Saving Mr. Wu. When famous actor Hwang Jung-min is kidnapped, he tries to find an escape route as his kidnappers demand a huge ransom from him within 24 hours.
  • Jo Pil-ho: The Dawning Rage
    57
    Lee Sun-kyun, Jeon So-nee, Park Hae-joon
    43 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Lee Jeong-beom
    Jo Pil-ho: The Dawning Rage is a 2019 South Korean action film directed by Lee Jeong-beom. On the run from a dogged internal affairs agent, a corrupt cop reluctantly teams up with a defiant teen to unravel the conspiracy behind a police warehouse explosion.
  • Illang: The Wolf Brigade
    58
    Gang Dong-won, Han Hyo-joo, Jung Woo-sung
    56 votes
    • Released: 2018
    • Directed by: Kim Jee-woon
    Illang: The Wolf Brigade, also known as Inrang, is a 2018 South Korean science fiction action film directed by Kim Jee-woon. Set in 2029 where South and North Korea get ready for a unified government after years of preparation, South Korean police launches a special unit, known as "Illang" (The Wolf Brigade), to stop an anti-reunification terrorist group called "The Sect."
  • My Way
    59
    Fan Bingbing, Nicole Jung, Lee Yeon-hee
    29 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Kang Je-gyu
    My Way is a 2011 South Korean wartime action drama film directed by Kang Je-gyu. In World War II-era Korea, two rival runners, one Korean and one Japanese, go to war together against the Soviets.
  • 71: Into the Fire
    60
    T.O.P, Cha Seung-won, Kwon Sang-woo
    45 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: John H. Lee
    71: Into the Fire is a 2010 South Korean war drama film directed by Lee Jae-han. Seventy-one student soldiers face impossible odds as they battle hundreds of North Korean soldiers.