After “Parasite” rocked the world last year, people are finally starting to pay attention to South Korean cinema. And long overdue, given the almost limitless range of quality films coming from Korea. The average moviegoer might be disappointed that it took so long for people to understand such a simple truth, but South Korean films are definitely worth keeping an eye on the country’s cinematic achievements.
Burning (2018, Lee Chang-dong)
Definitely one of the best films of the 2010s, it delivers some truly shocking drama, with the finale making everything on screen even more meaningful. This is a film about love, jealousy and what can not be called words.
The Handmaiden (2016, Park Chan-wook)
This erotic thriller is full of action, so 145 minutes of running time seems to be not enough to say everything. The director boldly explores the most difficult topics, including the love between two women – a Japanese woman and a Korean woman.
The Housemaid (1960, Kim Ki Yong)
Kim Ki Yong’s erotic thriller has been hailed as an important work by several directors, including Bong Joon Ho, who claims he paved the way for Parasite. This is the story of a young maid who makes life hell for her masters.
I Saw the Devil (2010, Kim Ji Woon)
This film is so ruthless it might even seem tedious, but it’s also one of the most gripping revenge thrillers the world has ever seen. Jang Kyung Chul is a maniac who killed the fiancée of a special police agent. And he will know what real hell is.
Memories of Murder (2003, Bong Joon Ho)
In “Memories of a Murder”, a group of local detectives are assigned to investigate a series of murders of two local women. Both murders were committed with brutal methods. Unfortunately for the suspects, these detectives tend to use unauthorized investigative techniques.
Oldboy (2003, Park Chan-wook)
You can hardly say anything about “Oldboy” that has not been said yet. This is perhaps the most famous South Korean film ever. This is the story of an ordinary man, Oh Dae Soo, who quickly ceases to be ordinary.
Parasite (2019, Bong Joon Ho)
Arguably the most award-winning South Korean film to date, it tackles timely themes, has a witty screenplay, and is notable for its dark atmosphere. The tape tells about a family of poor people who enter into the trust of the rich and begin to abuse their position.
Save the Green Planet (2003, Jang Jun Hwan)
Basically, it’s a weird sci-fi comedy. He switches furiously between black comedy, horror and drama, but it feels like something completely natural.
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter…and Spring again (2003, Kim Ki-duk)
It’s a thought-provoking story dealing with difficult themes like discipline, masculinity, and maturity. He talks about the relationship between a Buddhist monk and his mentor.
The Wailing (2016, Na Hoon Jin)
This is not just another haunted house movie. This is a film that uses every second effectively and efficiently. And this is a work that poses a real challenge to the genre.