Top 10 Korean Action Movies of 2000
Top 10 Korean Action Movies of 2000
Korean | Action | Movie Pulse Point
The year 2000 saw South Korea’s action cinema evolving with intense fight sequences, gripping storylines, and stylish cinematography. These films ranged from high-octane crime thrillers to martial arts spectacles, setting the stage for Korea’s dominance in action filmmaking. Here are the top 10 Korean action movies from 2000.
1. Nowhere to Hide (인정사정 볼 것 없다, 1999 - Popular in 2000)
- Director: Lee Myung-se
- Cast: Park Joong-hoon, Ahn Sung-ki
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
Plot: A relentless detective is on the hunt for a notorious assassin responsible for a brutal daylight murder. What follows is an intense chase through the streets, featuring dynamic hand-to-hand combat and thrilling shootouts. The film’s stylish cinematography and fast-paced editing make it a must-watch for action fans.
2. Shiri (쉬리, 1999 - Continued Success in 2000)
- Director: Kang Je-gyu
- Cast: Han Suk-kyu, Choi Min-sik, Kim Yun-jin
- IMDb Rating: 6.6
Plot: A high-stakes espionage thriller about a North Korean spy infiltrating South Korea, leading to a deadly cat-and-mouse game between intelligence agents. As tensions escalate, the film delivers explosive action sequences, emotional depth, and a shocking betrayal. Often compared to Hollywood blockbusters, Shiri set a new standard for Korean action cinema.
3. The Foul King (반칙왕, 2000 - Sports Action)
- Director: Kim Jee-woon
- Cast: Song Kang-ho, Jang Jin-young
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
Plot: A mild-mannered bank clerk turns to professional wrestling to escape his dull life. Adopting the persona of “The Foul King,” he uses illegal moves in the ring, leading to intense and dramatic fights. The film blends comedy, sports action, and emotional storytelling, making it a unique entry in the action genre.
4. Phantom the Submarine (유령, 1999 - Military Action-Thriller)
- Director: Min Byung-chun
- Cast: Choi Min-sik, Jung Woo-sung
- IMDb Rating: 6.3
Plot: A soldier, presumed dead, finds himself inside a classified military submarine on a top-secret mission. As the tension rises among the crew, betrayals and deadly combat erupt within the confined space. The film’s mix of psychological warfare and underwater action creates an intense viewing experience.
5. Die Bad (죽거나 혹은 나쁘거나, 2000 - Crime Action-Drama)
- Director: Ryoo Seung-wan
- Cast: Ryoo Seung-wan, Park Sung-bin
- IMDb Rating: 6.9
Plot: Told through four interconnected stories, this gritty action film follows two childhood friends who take opposite paths—one becomes a gangster while the other tries to live a normal life. Their inevitable clash leads to intense street fights, brutal confrontations, and a tragic resolution. Known for its raw energy and realistic action, this film established Ryoo Seung-wan as a top action director.
6. Attack the Gas Station! (주유소 습격사건, 1999 - Popular in 2000, Action-Comedy)
- Director: Kim Sang-jin
- Cast: Lee Sung-jae, Yoo Ji-tae
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
Plot: A group of rebellious youths decide to rob a gas station, only to end up running it themselves when things go wrong. As the night unfolds, gangsters, cops, and customers create chaos, leading to wild action scenes. This action-comedy is packed with fistfights, humor, and social satire.
7. Barking Dogs Never Bite (플란다스의 개, 2000 - Dark Action-Comedy)
- Director: Bong Joon-ho
- Cast: Lee Sung-jae, Bae Doona
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
Plot: While primarily a dark comedy, the film includes chase sequences, rooftop fights, and thrilling moments as a man’s impulsive actions set off a chain of unpredictable events. Bong Joon-ho’s debut film is a mix of satire, suspense, and urban action.
8. Interview (인터뷰, 2000 - Thriller with Action Elements)
- Director: Daniel H. Byun
- Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Shim Eun-ha
- IMDb Rating: 6.4
Plot: A filmmaker, obsessed with a mysterious woman, starts uncovering dark secrets that put both their lives at risk. As the story unfolds, intense chase scenes and fight sequences add to the thriller’s gripping narrative.
9. White Valentine (화이트 발렌타인, 1999 - Continued Popularity in 2000, Action-Romance)
- Director: Yang Yun-ho
- Cast: Park Shin-yang, Jeon Ji-hyun
- IMDb Rating: 6.2
Plot: A soldier returning from duty gets entangled in a web of conspiracies while trying to reconnect with his lost love. The film includes high-stakes fights, emotional drama, and a gripping love story.
10. Seoul Raiders (서울 레이더스, 2000 - Action-Comedy)
- Director: Jingle Ma
- Cast: Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Richie Jen
- IMDb Rating: 6.1
Plot: A fast-paced action film featuring international spies, high-speed chases, and stylish fight sequences. With a mix of comedy and thrilling action, this film keeps the audience entertained.
Final Thoughts
Korean action films in 2000 featured diverse storytelling, blending crime, military action, sports, and even comedy. These movies paved the way for Korea’s modern action hits. Whether you enjoy intense martial arts, high-stakes espionage, or crime dramas, this list offers a thrilling selection.
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