Bulletproof Action: Korean Action Films That Dominated 2019


2019 delivered some of the most intense and exhilarating Korean action movies, featuring high-stakes chases, brutal fight sequences, and gripping storytelling. These films kept audiences on the edge of their seats, proving once again that Korean cinema excels in the action genre.

1. The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil (악인전)

  • Director: Lee Won-tae
  • Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Kim Mu-yeol, Kim Sung-kyu
  • Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
  • Plot: A feared gangster survives an attack by a serial killer. To catch the murderer before he strikes again, he teams up with a determined cop, leading to an intense manhunt.

2. Exit (엑시트)

  • Director: Lee Sang-geun
  • Cast: Jo Jung-suk, Im Yoon-ah
  • Genre: Action, Disaster, Comedy
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
  • Plot: When a mysterious toxic gas spreads across the city, a rock climber and his former crush must use their skills to escape. This thrilling survival film blends action with humor.

3. Ashfall (백두산)

  • Director: Lee Hae-jun, Kim Byung-seo
  • Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Ha Jung-woo, Ma Dong-seok
  • Genre: Action, Disaster, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
  • Plot: A volcanic eruption threatens to destroy the Korean Peninsula. To prevent disaster, a group of specialists embarks on a dangerous mission, leading to high-stakes action sequences.

4. The Divine Fury (사자)

  • Director: Kim Joo-hwan
  • Cast: Park Seo-joon, Ahn Sung-ki, Woo Do-hwan
  • Genre: Action, Horror, Supernatural
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
  • Plot: A martial artist gains mysterious wounds and joins forces with an exorcist to battle dark forces. Packed with supernatural fights and intense action, this film offers a unique blend of horror and martial arts.

5. Long Live the King (롱 리브 더 킹: 목포 영웅)

  • Director: Kang Yoon-sung
  • Cast: Kim Rae-won, Won Jin-ah, Jin Seon-kyu
  • Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
  • Plot: A gangster unexpectedly becomes a political figure, fighting against corruption while trying to leave his violent past behind. This film combines powerful action with a gripping storyline.

6. Money (돈)

  • Director: Park Noo-ri
  • Cast: Ryu Jun-yeol, Yoo Ji-tae, Jo Woo-jin
  • Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.0/10
  • Plot: A rookie stockbroker is lured into the world of illegal insider trading, where wealth and greed lead to dangerous consequences. The high-stakes financial thriller is packed with tension and action.

7. No Mercy (언니)

  • Director: Im Kyung-taek
  • Cast: Lee Si-young, Park Se-wan
  • Genre: Action, Revenge, Drama
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 5.6/10
  • Plot: A former martial artist embarks on a relentless mission to rescue her kidnapped sister, taking down criminals one by one in brutal hand-to-hand combat scenes.

8. Jo Pil-ho: The Dawning Rage (악질경찰)

  • Director: Lee Jeong-beom
  • Cast: Lee Sun-kyun, Jeon So-nee, Park Hae-joon
  • Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
  • Plot: A corrupt cop gets caught up in a deadly conspiracy. As he fights for survival, he must decide whether to redeem himself or continue down his dark path.

Final Thoughts

2019 was an outstanding year for Korean action cinema, blending crime, disaster, and supernatural elements into thrilling spectacles. Whether you're a fan of fast-paced chases, intense martial arts, or edge-of-your-seat suspense, these films deliver unforgettable action sequences.

Which of these action-packed movies is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!


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