Underrated Action Gems: 5 Must-See Korean Films
Looking for some adrenaline-pumping action flicks that might have flown under your radar? Here are five fantastic Korean action movies that deliver bone-crunching fight choreography and thrilling storylines. Don’t miss out!
1. Confidential Assignment
Confidential Assignment is practically a玄彬 (Hyun Bin) highlight reel, packed with scenes tailor-made for action montages. The fight choreography is sharp and clean, perfectly showcasing the protagonist’s long limbs and impressive physique. The plot moves at a brisk pace, making it a highly entertaining commercial action film. Hyun Bin is undeniably charismatic and delivers a compelling performance, proving he’s even more captivating and skilled than in his younger days. The film also successfully weaves in themes of brotherhood, highlighting the shared roots of North and South Korea.
2. The Suspect
Think of The Suspect as a Korean take on the Bourne series, with池 (Ji Dong-cheol) embodying a down-on-his-luck Jason Bourne. While the first half is engaging, the film loses some steam in the latter part, bogged down by a lengthy and somewhat tiresome car chase sequence. The predictable ending, where 池 is allowed to escape, doesn’t detract too much from the overall experience. It’s a decent, if somewhat generic, action film, but the final scene, with the little girl’s pure and innocent gaze, is genuinely touching.
3. The Target
Directed by 尹鸿承 (Chang), The Target stars柳承龙 (Ryu Seung-ryong) and 李阵郁 (Lee Jin-wook). This remake of the 2010 French film Point Blank tells the story of “Tae-joon,” a doctor who helps a former mercenary named “Yeo-hoon” rescue his kidnapped wife, leading them on a dangerous journey. 柳俊相’s (Yoo Jun-sang) subtle facial expressions during moments of contemplation, coupled with his explosive performance while wielding a machine gun, are particularly memorable.
4. A Company Man
A top assassin within a corporate structure develops a conscience and, after finding love, decides to leave the company, despite being the boss’s favorite. However, his decision is met with resistance from everyone, and he is betrayed by a former friend seeking to regain his position. When his lover is killed in a shootout, he has no choice but to return to the company and unleash his fury. As is often the case in modern assassin movies, a conflict with the organization is inevitable.
5. Crying Man
The standout feature of Crying Man is undoubtedly its action sequences. The title might mislead action fans into overlooking this gem, but the fight scenes are brutal and visceral. With bullets flying, blood splattering, and knives piercing flesh, the film delivers a satisfyingly violent experience that might even make you wince. Beyond the action, the director attempts to explore the complex relationship between a mother and son, and the struggles faced by those living far from their homeland.
