Movie Data Hub

Kim Jee-woon - Biography and Filmography About Kim Jee-woon Kim Jee-woon is a South Korean filmmaker known for seamlessly blending genres , from horror and action to thriller and noir. Born on July 6, 1964 , he is celebrated for his stylized visuals, dark humor, and unconventional storytelling . Unlike many directors who stick to a specific genre, Kim experiments with various styles , creating films that are both entertaining and critically acclaimed. Notable Movies The Quiet Family (1998) – A dark comedy-horror about a family running a guesthouse where guests mysteriously die. The Foul King (2000) – A comedy-drama about a struggling office worker who becomes a pro wrestler. A Tale of Two Sisters (2003) – A psychological horror masterpiece that redefined the K-horror genre. A Bittersweet Life (2005) – A neo-noir action thriller about a loyal enforcer caught in a deadly betrayal. The Good, The Bad, The Weird (2008) – A Korean Western set in 1930s Manchuria, featuring hig...

Bong Joon-ho - Biography and Filmography About Bong Joon-ho Bong Joon-ho is a South Korean filmmaker known for blending social commentary, dark humor, and thrilling narratives . Born on September 14, 1969 , he gained global recognition for his genre-defying films , often highlighting class struggles and moral dilemmas. His masterpiece, Parasite (2019), made history as the first non-English film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture , solidifying his reputation as one of the most influential directors of modern cinema. Notable Movies Barking Dogs Never Bite (2000) – A dark comedy about a man frustrated with his life who takes his anger out on small dogs. Memories of Murder (2003) – A gripping crime thriller based on Korea’s first serial killings. The Host (2006) – A monster horror film with political satire, centered around a mutated creature in the Han River. Mother (2009) – A psychological thriller about a devoted mother trying to prove her son’s innocence in a murd...

Park Chan-wook - Biography and Filmography About Park Chan-wook Park Chan-wook is one of South Korea’s most influential and internationally recognized filmmakers , known for his stylized visuals, psychological depth, and bold storytelling . Born on August 23, 1963 , he originally studied philosophy before pursuing a career in film. He gained worldwide fame for his "Vengeance Trilogy" , particularly Oldboy (2003), which won the Grand Prix at Cannes . His works often explore revenge, human nature, and morality , blending violence with poetic storytelling . Notable Movies Joint Security Area (2000) – A political thriller about a shooting incident at the Korean DMZ. Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002) – A dark revenge thriller and the first in the "Vengeance Trilogy." Oldboy (2003) – A neo-noir thriller about a man mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years, featuring one of cinema’s most iconic twist endings. Sympathy for Lady Vengeance (2005) – The final entry ...

Yoo Ah-in - Biography and Filmography About Yoo Ah-in Yoo Ah-in (real name Uhm Hong-sik) is a South Korean actor known for his versatility, deep character portrayals, and artistic approach to acting . Born on October 6, 1986 , he first gained fame in youth dramas before transitioning to critically acclaimed films and arthouse cinema . His ability to play rebellious, intense, and emotionally complex characters has made him one of Korea’s most respected actors. He is also known for his involvement in art, fashion, and social activism. Notable Movies Punch (2011) – A coming-of-age drama where he plays a troubled student mentored by Kim Yoon-seok. Tough as Iron (2013) – A crime-action film about a devoted son caught in gang conflicts. Veteran (2015) – A blockbuster action film where he plays a rich, psychopathic villain. The Throne (2015) – A historical drama about Crown Prince Sado, who was locked in a rice chest to die. Like for Likes (2016) – A romantic comedy involving...

Kim Yoon-seok - Biography and Filmography About Kim Yoon-seok Kim Yoon-seok is one of South Korea’s most versatile and critically acclaimed actors , known for his intense performances in crime, thriller, and action films. Born on January 21, 1968 , he started his career in theater before transitioning to television and film. Kim gained widespread recognition for his charismatic and commanding roles , often portraying morally complex characters such as detectives, gangsters, and villains. His films frequently rank among Korea’s most successful box office hits. Notable Movies The Chaser (2008) – A thriller where he plays a former detective turned pimp who hunts a serial killer. Running Turtle (2009) – An action-comedy about a detective chasing a fugitive. The Yellow Sea (2010) – A crime thriller about a desperate man involved in an assassination plot. Punch (2011) – A coming-of-age drama where he plays a troubled but caring teacher. The Thieves (2012) – A heist film wit...

Ryu Jun-yeol - Biography and Filmography About Ryu Jun-yeol Ryu Jun-yeol is a South Korean actor known for his naturalistic acting, emotional depth, and strong presence in independent and commercial films . Born on September 25, 1986 , he first gained fame through the hit TV series Reply 1988 (2015-2016), where he became a fan favorite. Since then, he has built a solid film career, starring in critically acclaimed dramas, action thrillers, and historical epics . His ability to portray relatable, everyday characters has made him one of Korea’s most respected young actors. Notable Movies The King (2017) – A political crime thriller where he plays a prosecutor caught in power struggles. A Taxi Driver (2017) – A historical drama based on the Gwangju Uprising , co-starring Song Kang-ho. Believer (2018) – A crime thriller about the Korean drug underworld. Money (2019) – A financial crime thriller where he plays a young stockbroker caught in corruption. Battle of Jangsari (201...

Hwang Jung-min - Biography and Filmography About Hwang Jung-min Hwang Jung-min is one of South Korea’s most respected and highest-grossing actors , known for his versatility across action, crime, thriller, and drama films. Born on September 1, 1970 , he began his acting career in theater before transitioning to films in the early 2000s. Unlike many leading Korean actors who started in television, Hwang made his name in cinema, starring in some of Korea’s biggest box office hits . He is celebrated for his natural acting style, deep emotional expressions, and ability to portray both intense and comedic roles . Notable Movies You Are My Sunshine (2005) – A heartbreaking romance drama where he plays a farmer who falls in love with a woman with a tragic past. A Bittersweet Life (2005) – A neo-noir crime thriller where he plays a gangster. Black House (2007) – A psychological horror-thriller about a suspicious insurance case. The Unjust (2010) – A political crime thriller about...

Ma Dong-seok - Biography and Filmography About Ma Dong-seok Ma Dong-seok, also known as Don Lee, is a South Korean-American actor and former personal trainer known for his intense screen presence, action-packed roles, and charismatic performances . Born on March 1, 1971 , in South Korea, he later moved to the United States and studied at Columbus State University. Before becoming an actor, Ma trained MMA fighters, including Mark Coleman and Kevin Randleman. His strong physique and natural acting skills made him a standout in action films, but he has also demonstrated versatility in comedy and drama. He gained international fame with Train to Busan (2016) and later joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in Eternals (2021). Notable Movies The Outlaws (2017) – A crime action film where he plays a tough detective taking on a brutal gang. Train to Busan (2016) – A global hit zombie thriller where he played a fan-favorite character, Sang-hwa. Eternals (2021) – His Hollywoo...

Jung Woo-sung - Biography and Filmography About Jung Woo-sung Jung Woo-sung is a celebrated South Korean actor, director, and producer known for his commanding screen presence and versatility. Born on March 20, 1973 , he started his career as a model before transitioning into acting in the 1990s. His breakout role in Beat (1997) cemented him as a leading star in Korean cinema. With a career spanning over two decades, Jung has starred in various genres, from romance and crime thrillers to historical epics. He is also recognized for his humanitarian efforts, serving as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador advocating for refugee rights. Notable Movies Beat (1997) – A cult classic youth crime drama, marking his breakout role. City of the Rising Sun (1999) – A film about ambition, betrayal, and survival. Musa: The Warrior (2001) – A historical action drama set in ancient China. A Moment to Remember (2004) – One of Korea’s most iconic romantic films. The Good, the Bad, the Weird (200...

Gong Yoo - Biography and Filmography About Gong Yoo Gong Yoo is a South Korean actor widely recognized for his roles in dramas and films that blend romance, action, and thriller elements. Born on July 10, 1979 , his real name is Gong Ji-cheol. He made his acting debut in the early 2000s and gained widespread fame with the romantic comedy drama Coffee Prince (2007). His career skyrocketed internationally with the zombie thriller Train to Busan (2016), which became a global box office success. Gong Yoo is known for his charismatic screen presence, versatile acting, and ability to portray deep emotional characters. Notable Movies Spy Girl (2004) – Romantic comedy She’s on Duty (2005) – Action-comedy Silenced (2011) – Legal drama, exposed real-life abuse cases The Suspect (2013) – Action thriller Train to Busan (2016) – Zombie apocalypse thriller, international hit Kim Ji-young: Born 1982 (2019) – Drama about gender roles and motherhood Seo Bok (2021) – Sci-fi thrille...

Choi Min-sik - Biography and Filmography About Choi Min-sik Choi Min-sik is one of South Korea’s most respected actors, known for his intense performances and ability to bring emotional depth to his characters. Born on May 30, 1962, he started his career in theater before transitioning to television and film in the 1990s. He gained international recognition for his role in Oldboy (2003), where he played a man seeking revenge after being mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years. Choi is known for working in psychological thrillers, crime dramas, and historical films, often portraying morally complex characters. Despite his success, he briefly left the film industry in the mid-2000s due to his opposition to the Korean screen quota reduction but later returned with more powerful performances. Notable Movies Our Twisted Hero (1992) – Early drama film Shiri (1999) – Korea’s first big-budget spy thriller Failan (2001) – Romance drama with a cult following Oldboy (2003) – Neo-noir ...

Song Kang-ho - Biography and Filmography About Song Kang-ho Song Kang-ho is one of South Korea’s most revered actors, known for his versatility and naturalistic acting style. Born on January 17, 1967, he initially performed in theater before transitioning to film in the mid-1990s. Unlike many actors, he never formally trained in acting but gained immense recognition through his ability to portray deep, complex characters. Song has worked extensively with acclaimed directors like Bong Joon-ho, Park Chan-wook, and Kim Jee-woon, starring in some of Korea’s most iconic films. He gained global recognition with Parasite (2019), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Notable Movies The Day a Pig Fell into the Well (1996) – Debut film No. 3 (1997) – Crime-comedy Shiri (1999) – One of Korea’s first blockbuster action thrillers Joint Security Area (2000) – Thriller directed by Park Chan-wook Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002) – Dark revenge thriller Memories of Murder (20...

Lee Jung-jae - Biography and Filmography About Lee Jung-jae Lee Jung-jae is a highly acclaimed South Korean actor, model, and filmmaker. Born on December 15, 1972, he initially started as a fashion model before transitioning into acting. His breakthrough came in the mid-1990s with Sandglass (1995), one of Korea’s most iconic TV dramas. Since then, he has built a strong reputation for his performances in action, thriller, and crime films. Lee’s acting career spans decades, and he has played a wide range of roles, from gangsters to spies and even historical figures. He gained international fame with Netflix’s Squid Game (2021), where he played Seong Gi-hun, a down-on-his-luck gambler caught in a deadly survival game. Aside from acting, Lee has ventured into directing and made his directorial debut with Hunt (2022), a political action thriller. Notable Movies The Young Man (1994) – Debut film City of the Rising Sun (1999) Il Mare (2000) – Romantic drama, later remade in Hol...

Korean sci-fi films continue to redefine the genre, blending advanced technology, dystopian futures, and philosophical dilemmas into gripping cinematic experiences. From time loops to AI-driven societies, 2024 delivered a lineup of thought-provoking, visually stunning films. Here are the top Korean sci-fi movies of the year that will leave you questioning reality. 1. The Door Between Worlds (차원의 문) – A Multiverse Thriller Director: Kim Yong-hwa ( Along with the Gods ) Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Park Shin-hye, Yoo Ah-in Genre: Sci-Fi, Mystery, Parallel Universe Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.8/10 Plot: A scientist (Lee Byung-hun) working on interdimensional travel accidentally opens a portal to a parallel world where his alternate self has made a catastrophic mistake. As both versions of him fight to fix the breach, they uncover a much darker force lurking between dimensions. The Door Between Worlds is a high-stakes, cerebral thriller that explores fate, identity,...

Korean cinema continues to master the art of suspense, delivering edge-of-your-seat thrillers packed with twists, psychological tension, and gripping storytelling. From crime dramas to psychological horror, 2024’s thriller lineup promises intense plots and shocking revelations. Here are the must-watch Korean thrillers of the year. 1. The Devil’s Deal (악마의 거래) – A Political Conspiracy Thriller Director: Lee Won-tae ( The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil ) Cast: Jo Jin-woong, Lee Sung-min, Kim Moo-yeol Genre: Political Thriller, Crime, Drama Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.5/10 Plot: A struggling politician (Jo Jin-woong) makes a dangerous deal with a shadowy businessman (Lee Sung-min) to secure his election win. However, as secrets unravel and betrayals mount, he finds himself entangled in a deadly game where power comes at a terrifying cost. With intense performances and razor-sharp storytelling, The Devil’s Deal is a gripping political thriller that exposes the...

Korean cinema has a knack for blending humor with heartfelt storytelling, and 2024 was no exception. This year’s comedy films delivered everything from satirical takes on modern life to over-the-top slapstick humor and witty rom-coms. Here are the must-watch funniest Korean movies of 2024. 1. Hijacking (납치) – Dark Comedy with a Twist Director: Lee Jong-pil ( Samjin Company English Class ) Cast: Ha Jung-woo, Joo Ji-hoon, Choi Hee-seo Genre: Dark Comedy, Crime, Satire Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.4/10 Plot: A struggling actor (Ha Jung-woo) hatches a ridiculous plan to fake his own kidnapping to gain media attention, only for things to spiral out of control when a real criminal group gets involved. With hilarious misunderstandings, slapstick chaos, and biting social satire, Hijacking is a sharp and absurd comedy that keeps audiences laughing while critiquing celebrity culture. 2. Chicken Nugget (닭강정) – A Bizarre, Sci-Fi Comedy Director: Lee Byeong-he...

Korean action cinema continues to deliver high-adrenaline sequences, intense fight choreography, and gripping narratives. In 2024, filmmakers took action to the next level, with explosive chases, martial arts showdowns, and high-stakes heists. Here are the top Korean action films of the year. 1. Harbin (하얼빈) Director: Woo Min-ho ( Inside Men, The Man Standing Next ) Cast: Hyun Bin, Lee Dong-wook, Park Jung-min Genre: Historical, Spy Thriller, War, Action Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.5/10 Plot: Set in the early 1900s, Harbin follows a group of Korean independence activists as they engage in high-risk espionage missions against the Japanese colonial forces. The film blends intense shootouts, close-quarters combat, and nerve-wracking chases through the streets of Harbin, China. Hyun Bin delivers a powerful performance as a resistance fighter determined to change history. 2. The Roundup: Punishment (범죄도시4) Director: Heo Myung-haeng (*Debut Feature, St...

Korean cinema continues to shine with its diverse storytelling, blending action, mystery, and emotional depth. In 2024, filmmakers delivered everything from intense thrillers to heartfelt dramas and mind-bending sci-fi. Here are some of the must-watch Korean films of the year. 1. Exhuma (파묘) Director: Jang Jae-hyun ( Svaha: The Sixth Finger, The Priests ) Cast: Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, Lee Do-hyun Genre: Horror, Mystery, Supernatural Thriller Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.1/10 Plot: A team of shamans and exorcists are hired to relocate an ancient grave, only to unleash an unimaginable evil. As supernatural forces intensify, they must confront their deepest fears and unravel the grave’s dark history before it's too late. With eerie cinematography and chilling suspense, Exhuma is a gripping supernatural horror that keeps audiences on edge. 2. The Plot (더 플롯) Director: Lee Yo-sub ( The Queen of Crime ) Cast: Kang Dong-won, Lee Mo...

Korean cinema continues to push the boundaries of science fiction, blending action, mystery, and thought-provoking narratives. 2023 was a stellar year for the genre, with films exploring alien encounters, time loops, and parallel universes. Here are the top must-watch Korean sci-fi films of the year. 1. Alienoid: Part 2 (외계+인 2부) Director: Choi Dong-hoon ( The Thieves, Assassination ) Cast: Ryu Jun-yeol, Kim Woo-bin, Kim Tae-ri Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Time Travel Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 6.5/10 Plot: The highly anticipated sequel to Alienoid (2022) picks up where the first film left off. As a war between extraterrestrials and humans escalates, characters from the past and present must work together to prevent an apocalyptic disaster. With visually stunning effects, martial arts-infused action, and a complex time-travel storyline, Alienoid: Part 2 delivers an epic sci-fi adventure. 2. Jung_E (정이) Director: Yeon Sang-ho ( Train to Busan, Hellbound ) Cast: Kan...

Korean thrillers have a unique way of blending suspense, psychological depth, and unexpected twists. In 2023, the genre continued to impress with gripping murder mysteries, psychological horror, and crime dramas that kept audiences on edge. Here are the top must-watch Korean thrillers of the year. 1. The Devil’s Deal (대외비) Director: Lee Won-tae ( The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil ) Cast: Cho Jin-woong, Lee Sung-min, Kim Mu-yeol Genre: Political Thriller, Crime, Suspense Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 6.5/10 Plot: A desperate politician (Cho Jin-woong) struggling in an election gets involved with a powerful businessman who offers financial backing—at a dangerous cost. As betrayals mount and hidden secrets surface, the film dives into the dark side of power, greed, and survival in a corrupt system. 2. Unlocked (스마트폰을 떨어뜨렸을 뿐인데) Director: Kim Tae-joon Cast: Im Si-wan, Chun Woo-hee, Kim Hee-won Genre: Psychological Thriller, Cybercrime Language: Korean IMDb Rating:...

Korean comedies in 2023 continued to bring laughter through a mix of satire, slapstick, and sharp social commentary. From absurd situations to witty humor, these films entertained audiences while often carrying deeper messages. Here are the top must-watch Korean comedies of the year. 1. Dream (드림) Director: Lee Byeong-heon ( Extreme Job, Melo Is My Nature ) Cast: Park Seo-joon, IU, Kim Jong-soo Genre: Sports, Comedy, Drama Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 6.4/10 Plot: A disgraced soccer player (Park Seo-joon) is forced to coach a team of homeless people for the Homeless World Cup. His unwilling involvement turns into an unexpected journey of self-discovery, friendship, and redemption. With IU playing a documentary filmmaker capturing the team’s progress, Dream blends sports, satire, and heartfelt comedy into an uplifting story. 2. Killing Romance (킬링 로맨스) Director: Lee Won-suk ( How to Use Guys with Secret Tips ) Cast: Lee Ha-nee, Lee Sun-kyun, Gong Myung Genre: D...

Korean action cinema has once again delivered high-octane thrills in 2023, blending intense fight sequences, gripping storytelling, and star-studded performances. From adrenaline-pumping car chases to historical espionage, these films showcase the best of action-packed Korean filmmaking. 1. The Roundup: No Way Out (범죄도시 3) Director: Lee Sang-yong Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Lee Joon-hyuk, Aoki Munetaka Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 6.6/10 Plot: The legendary detective Ma Seok-do returns, this time facing off against a deadly new drug cartel. With his signature brutal fighting style and unstoppable determination, he takes on corrupt cops and ruthless criminals to bring justice to the streets. Packed with bone-crushing action and dark humor, this third installment in The Outlaws series is a must-watch for crime-action fans. 2. Smugglers (밀수) Director: Ryoo Seung-wan ( Veteran, Escape from Mogadishu ) Cast: Kim Hye-soo, Yum Jung-ah, Jo In-sung...

2023 was another remarkable year for Korean cinema, offering a mix of gripping thrillers, heartwarming dramas, intense action, and thought-provoking sci-fi. These films captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, proving once again why Korean filmmaking continues to dominate the global stage. From critically acclaimed blockbusters to indie gems, here are the must-watch Korean films of 2023. 1. Concrete Utopia (콘크리트 유토피아) Director: Um Tae-hwa Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Park Seo-joon, Park Bo-young Genre: Thriller, Drama, Post-Apocalyptic Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.0/10 Plot: After a devastating earthquake reduces Seoul to ruins, a single apartment building remains standing. The surviving residents take extreme measures to protect their home from outsiders, leading to a chilling battle for survival. As morality crumbles and power struggles emerge, the film explores the dark side of human nature in times of crisis. 2. Smugglers (밀수) Director: Ryoo Seung-wan ( Veter...

Korean cinema continued to push the boundaries of sci-fi storytelling in 2022, offering gripping tales of dystopian futures, AI-driven societies, and post-apocalyptic survival. These films captivated audiences with their stunning visuals, thought-provoking narratives, and unique takes on technology and human resilience. 1. Jung_E (정이) – (Netflix Film, Released in 2023) Director: Yeon Sang-ho ( Train to Busan ) Cast: Kang Soo-yeon, Kim Hyun-joo, Ryu Kyung-soo Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, AI Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 5.5/10 Plot: Set in the 22nd century, where Earth has become uninhabitable due to climate change, humans now live in space shelters while waging war. A brilliant scientist, Yun Seo-hyun, is tasked with cloning the brain of legendary soldier Jung-E to create an unbeatable AI-powered warrior. However, as she uncovers hidden truths about her mother’s legacy and the ethics of AI, she faces a moral dilemma that could change everything. 2. Alienoid (외계+인 1부) Direc...

Korean cinema once again delivered nail-biting suspense, intricate mysteries, and psychological mind games in 2022. From chilling crime dramas to high-stakes thrillers, these films kept audiences on edge with unexpected twists and masterful storytelling. 1. Decision to Leave (헤어질 결심) Director: Park Chan-wook Cast: Tang Wei, Park Hae-il, Lee Jung-hyun Genre: Mystery, Crime, Romance Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 7.3/10 Plot: Hae-jun, a detective investigating the suspicious death of a man who fell from a mountain, finds himself drawn to the victim’s widow, Seo-rae. As he gets closer to her, his judgment becomes clouded by an obsessive attraction. Is Seo-rae a grieving wife or a cunning femme fatale? This slow-burn thriller, filled with Hitchcockian tension and breathtaking cinematography, keeps viewers guessing until the very end. 2. Hunt (헌트) Director: Lee Jung-jae Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Jung Woo-sung, Jeon Hye-jin Genre: Spy Thriller, Action Language: Korean IMD...

Korean cinema delivered a delightful mix of humor and heart in 2022, with comedies that ranged from slapstick hilarity to sharp-witted satire. Whether it was buddy cop antics, family misadventures, or unexpected romance, these films kept audiences entertained with their laugh-out-loud moments and engaging storytelling. 1. 6/45 (육사오) Director: Park Gyu-tae Cast: Go Kyung-pyo, Lee Yi-kyung, Eum Moon-suk, Kwak Dong-yeon Genre: Comedy, Drama Language: Korean IMDb Rating: 6.8/10 Plot: Chun-woo, a South Korean soldier, discovers a winning lottery ticket worth 5.7 billion won. Just when he thinks he's hit the jackpot, a gust of wind blows the ticket into North Korean territory, where a soldier named Yong-ho finds it. The two must negotiate an absurdly funny and nerve-wracking deal while avoiding military tensions. Packed with hilarious misunderstandings and a charming bromance, 6/45 delivers a unique take on cross-border relations. 2. Honest Candidate 2 (정직한 후보 2) Dire...