Best Korean Action Movies of 2004
Korean action cinema in 2004 showcased intense fight sequences, gripping narratives, and emotionally driven characters. Whether it was war epics, martial arts fantasies, or crime thrillers, this year delivered some unforgettable action films. Here’s a look at the best Korean action movies of 2004.
1. Taegukgi: The Brotherhood of War (2004)
Director: Kang Je-gyu
Starring: Jang Dong-gun, Won Bin, Lee Eun-ju
Language: Korean
A landmark war film, Taegukgi follows two brothers drafted into the Korean War and their journey from innocence to brutality. With intense battle scenes and raw emotional depth, it remains one of Korea’s most powerful action dramas.
2. Arahan (2004)
Director: Ryoo Seung-wan
Starring: Ryoo Seung-bum, Yoon So-yi, Ahn Sung-ki
Language: Korean
Blending action with fantasy, Arahan tells the story of a naive cop who discovers he has supernatural martial arts abilities. As he trains under a group of ancient masters, he must face a powerful enemy. The film’s humor, stylish fight choreography, and thrilling action make it a standout.
3. Fighter in the Wind (2004)
Director: Yang Yun-ho
Starring: Yang Dong-geun, Aya Hirayama, Jung Tae-woo
Language: Korean
Based on the real-life story of Choi Bae-dal, the founder of Kyokushin Karate, Fighter in the Wind follows his journey from hardship to becoming one of Japan’s most respected martial artists. The film’s beautifully choreographed fights and inspiring underdog story make it a must-watch for action lovers.
4. The Big Swindle (2004)
Director: Choi Dong-hoon
Starring: Park Shin-yang, Baek Yoon-sik, Yum Jung-ah
Language: Korean
This slick heist thriller follows a group of con artists executing an elaborate bank fraud, only to find that trust among thieves is a dangerous game. Fast-paced action, double-crosses, and stylish cinematography make The Big Swindle a gripping watch.
5. R-Point (2004)
Director: Kong Su-chang
Starring: Kam Woo-sung, Son Byung-ho
Language: Korean
Although primarily a horror-war film, R-Point features intense military action as a South Korean platoon investigates a distress signal from a ghostly battlefield. The film masterfully blends psychological horror with combat sequences, making for a uniquely chilling war movie.
6. Some (2004)
Director: Chang Yoon-hyun
Starring: Go Soo, Song Ji-hyo
Language: Korean
A crime-thriller with an action-packed edge, Some follows a detective caught in a dangerous drug case while experiencing strange déjà vu moments. High-speed chases, thrilling shootouts, and a gripping mystery make this film a hidden gem.
7. Low Life (2004)
Director: Im Kwon-taek
Starring: Cho Seung-woo, Kim Gyu-ri, Kim Jung-tae
Language: Korean
Set in 1950s Korea, Low Life tells the story of a young gangster navigating the violent and corrupt underworld. The film’s gritty action scenes and period drama elements provide a fascinating look into Korea’s crime history.
8. Hi! Dharma 2: Showdown in Seoul (2004)
Director: Yook Sang-hyo
Starring: Park Shin-yang, Jung Jin-young, Kim Su-ro
Language: Korean
A sequel to the hit comedy-action film Hi! Dharma, this installment follows a group of monks caught in a conflict with gangsters in Seoul. Blending martial arts sequences with humor, it delivers both fun and action.
9. Mokpo, Gangster’s Paradise (2004)
Director: Kim Ji-hoon
Starring: Cha In-pyo, Jo Jae-hyun, Kim Min-jong
Language: Korean
This crime-action film follows an undercover detective infiltrating a dangerous gang in Mokpo, a city controlled by the mafia. The film balances intense gunfights, suspenseful undercover drama, and an engaging storyline.
10. Bunshinsaba (2004) – (Honorable Mention for Thriller Elements)
Director: Ahn Byeong-ki
Starring: Kim Gyu-ri, Lee Se-eun
Language: Korean
While primarily a horror film, Bunshinsaba contains gripping action sequences tied to its supernatural mystery. A young woman’s attempt to summon spirits leads to deadly consequences, with moments of intense physical confrontations.
Final Thoughts
From war epics to martial arts sagas and crime thrillers, 2004 was a dynamic year for Korean action cinema. Whether you prefer large-scale battles, hand-to-hand combat, or stylish heist thrillers, this list offers something for every action movie fan.
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