Korean Action Movies of 2005 You Must Watch
Korean cinema in 2005 delivered some of the most electrifying action films, filled with high-intensity fight sequences, stylish choreography, and gripping storytelling. Whether it’s a neo-noir thriller, a historical epic, or a war film, these movies showcase the best of Korean action cinema. Here are the top 10 Korean action movies of 2005 that you shouldn't miss!
1. A Bittersweet Life (2005) – 달콤한 인생
Language: Korean
Director: Kim Jee-woon
Starring: Lee Byung-hun, Shin Min-ah, Hwang Jung-min
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
One of the most stylish and gripping action thrillers of 2005, A Bittersweet Life follows Sun-woo, a loyal enforcer for a powerful crime boss. Tasked with keeping an eye on his boss's mistress, he faces betrayal and a brutal fight for survival. With its sleek cinematography and intense action sequences, this film remains one of the best modern Korean action films.
2. Typhoon (2005) – 태풍
Language: Korean
Director: Kwak Kyung-taek
Starring: Jang Dong-gun, Lee Jung-jae, Lee Mi-yeon
IMDb Rating: 5.7/10
Typhoon is an action-packed political thriller following a South Korean naval officer assigned to stop a dangerous pirate with a deep hatred for both North and South Korea. Featuring large-scale naval combat, intense chase sequences, and explosive action, this film is a must-watch for fans of military thrillers.
3. Shadowless Sword (2005) – 무영검
Language: Korean
Director: Kim Young-jun
Starring: Yoon Soy, Lee Seo-jin, Shin Hyun-joon
IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Set in ancient Korea, Shadowless Sword is a visually stunning martial arts film featuring breathtaking sword fights and heroic warriors. The story follows a female warrior who must protect the last prince of a fallen kingdom while facing relentless assassins. With its historical setting and stylish action choreography, this film is perfect for fans of period action films.
4. Duelist (2005) – 형사: Duelist
Language: Korean
Director: Lee Myung-se
Starring: Ha Ji-won, Kang Dong-won, Ahn Sung-ki
IMDb Rating: 6.0/10
Duelist blends martial arts with artistic cinematography, creating a visually unique action experience. Set in the Joseon Dynasty, the film follows a detective tracking down a mysterious assassin known as the "Sad Eyes." The film's beautifully choreographed sword fights and poetic storytelling make it stand out from traditional action films.
5. Welcome to Dongmakgol (2005) – 웰컴 투 동막골
Language: Korean
Director: Park Kwang-hyun
Starring: Jung Jae-young, Shin Ha-kyun, Kang Hye-jung
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
While more of a war film, Welcome to Dongmakgol features intense action sequences as North and South Korean soldiers find themselves stranded in a peaceful village during the Korean War. With a mix of humor, action, and heartwarming moments, this critically acclaimed film is a unique take on war dramas.
6. Antarctic Journal (2005) – 남극일기
Language: Korean
Director: Yim Pil-sung
Starring: Song Kang-ho, Yoo Ji-tae
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
A psychological action thriller set in the icy landscapes of Antarctica, Antarctic Journal follows an expedition team as they experience unexplained events that lead to paranoia and madness. While the film leans toward horror and psychological tension, its survival action elements make it a gripping watch.
7. R-Point (2005) – 알 포인트
Language: Korean
Director: Kong Su-chang
Starring: Kam Woo-sung, Sohn Byung-ho, Oh Tae-kyung
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
This military horror-action film follows South Korean soldiers investigating a mysterious distress signal from Vietnam during the war. As they uncover eerie secrets, they face supernatural forces and brutal combat. R-Point is an intense blend of action and horror that keeps viewers on edge.
8. Marathon (2005) – 말아톤
Language: Korean
Director: Jeong Yoon-cheol
Starring: Cho Seung-woo, Kim Mi-sook
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
While not a traditional action film, Marathon delivers intense physical endurance scenes as it tells the inspiring true story of an autistic young man determined to become a marathon runner. The film is packed with emotionally charged sequences and moments of triumph.
9. Mr. Socrates (2005) – 미스터 소크라테스
Language: Korean
Director: Choi Jin-won
Starring: Kim Rae-won, Kang Shin-il
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
A raw and gritty crime action film, Mr. Socrates follows a petty gangster who is kidnapped and forced into brutal training to become an elite assassin. This lesser-known film is filled with harsh training sequences, brutal street fights, and an intense character transformation.
10. The Art of Fighting (2005) – 싸움의 기술
Language: Korean
Director: Shin Han-sol
Starring: Jae Hee, Baek Yoon-sik
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
The Art of Fighting is a martial arts action film that follows a bullied teenager who learns how to fight from an aging master. With its focus on street fights and realistic combat, the film delivers an engaging story of self-defense and survival.
Conclusion
2005 was a fantastic year for Korean action cinema, offering everything from stylish gangster thrillers to epic war films and martial arts spectacles. Whether you love high-stakes combat, sword fights, or intense crime dramas, this list has something for every action fan.
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