Gunfights & Swordplay: Korean Action Films That Rocked 2018


Korean cinema has long been known for its intense action sequences, blending thrilling gunfights, expertly choreographed swordplay, and high-stakes drama. In 2018, Korean action movies raised the bar with explosive set pieces, gripping narratives, and unforgettable performances. Here are the top Korean action films from 2018 that delivered adrenaline-pumping excitement.

1. Believer (독전)

  • Director: Lee Hae-young
  • Cast: Cho Jin-woong, Ryu Jun-yeol, Kim Joo-hyuk
  • Genre: Action, Crime
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
  • Plot: A detective joins forces with a gang member to take down an elusive drug lord, leading to an intense battle of wits, shootouts, and betrayals in the criminal underworld.

2. The Witch: Part 1 - The Subversion (마녀)

  • Director: Park Hoon-jung
  • Cast: Kim Da-mi, Choi Woo-shik, Jo Min-soo
  • Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
  • Plot: A teenage girl with extraordinary abilities finds herself hunted by sinister forces. As she fights to survive, she unlocks deadly powers, leading to brutal combat sequences and an unforgettable climax.

3. Rampant (창궐)

  • Director: Kim Sung-hoon
  • Cast: Hyun Bin, Jang Dong-gun, Jo Woo-jin
  • Genre: Action, Horror, Historical
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
  • Plot: In the Joseon era, a skilled swordsman returns from exile to find his kingdom under siege by monstrous undead creatures. With breathtaking sword fights and large-scale battles, this film delivers an action-packed historical spectacle.

4. The Negotiation (협상)

  • Director: Lee Jong-seok
  • Cast: Son Ye-jin, Hyun Bin
  • Genre: Action, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
  • Plot: A top crisis negotiator faces off against a ruthless arms dealer in a tense hostage situation. As time runs out, mind games and high-stakes gunfights keep the tension razor-sharp.

5. Golden Slumber (골든 슬럼버)

  • Director: Noh Dong-seok
  • Cast: Gang Dong-won, Han Hyo-joo, Kim Eui-sung
  • Genre: Action, Thriller
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
  • Plot: A deliveryman is framed for the assassination of a political candidate. Forced to go on the run, he fights against corrupt forces to clear his name in a fast-paced, high-octane thriller.

6. The Drug King (마약왕)

  • Director: Woo Min-ho
  • Cast: Song Kang-ho, Jo Jung-suk, Bae Doona
  • Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
  • Language: Korean
  • IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
  • Plot: Based on true events, this film follows the rise of a Korean drug lord in the 1970s. With intense shootouts, gang rivalries, and a gripping storyline, it’s a must-watch for crime-action fans.

Final Thoughts

From intense shootouts in Believer to epic swordplay in Rampant, 2018 was a fantastic year for Korean action films. Whether you love crime dramas, historical battles, or sci-fi-infused thrillers, these films deliver nonstop action and gripping narratives.

Which of these films did you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments!


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