Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the thrilling world of Korean crime movies! In 2023, the Korean film industry is set to deliver a captivating lineup of intense and suspenseful crime films that are sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From historical dramas to contemporary mysteries, these films showcase the unique blend of action and drama that Korean cinema is renowned for. Let’s dive into the top 10 crime movies to watch out for this year:
1. HARBIN (하얼빈)
- Release Date: December
- Summary: Set in the early 1900s, HARBIN follows Korean independence activists as they challenge Japanese rule. Their journey leads them to Harbin, China, where they meticulously plan an audacious attack against their oppressors, risking their lives for the freedom of Korea.
2. THE CHILDE (귀공자)
- Release Date: June 21
- Summary: A Filipino-Korean boy’s dream of becoming a boxer takes him on a journey to South Korea. However, he becomes entangled with unsavory characters and the dark underbelly of society. As he seeks reconciliation and identity, he must confront the shadows of his past.
3. SMUGGLERS (밀수)
- Release Date: July 26
- Summary: In the 1970s, a coastal village hides a network of smugglers. Jo Choon Ja, a cunning smuggler, and Eom Jin Sook, a fearless female diver, navigate their dangerous world. But the notorious Master Sergeant Kwon looms over them all, making their lives even more perilous.
4. DEVILS
- Release Date: July 5
- Summary: Detective Jae Hwan, consumed by hatred for a serial murderer, ends up in an unexpected situation. After an accident, he wakes up with the murderer’s body. To protect his family and uncover the truth, Jae Hwan embarks on a desperate chase.
5. THE DEVIL’S DEAL (대외비: 권력의 탄생)
- IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Summary: Hae Woong, aspiring assembly member, turns to the criminal world to gain power. With classified government information and the help of a gang leader, he seeks revenge on a local bigwig. But as his journey through politics unfolds, his world darkens.
6. PHANTOM (유령)
- IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Summary: Set in 1933 during Japanese colonization, PHANTOM follows five suspects under suspicion of being a spy for the anti-Japanese resistance. Trapped in an isolated hotel, they must use their wits to escape while doubting each other’s loyalties.
7. THE ROUNDUP: NO WAY OUT (범죄도시3)
- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Summary: Detective Ma Suk Do joins a crime investigation team led by Jang Tae Soo. They confront Joo Sung Cheol, a privileged chaebol’s son, while dealing with the involvement of the Japanese yakuza.
8. HOPELESS (화란)
- IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Summary: Yeon Gyu, enduring violence from his stepfather, dreams of escaping his town. Chi Geon, a mid-level gang boss, offers him a way out. As Yeon Gyu adapts to gang life, he faces increasingly dangerous situations.
9. KILL BOK SOON (길복순)
- IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Summary: Gil Bok Soon, a single mother and lethal killer, navigates a dangerous world of contract killings. Her interactions with her employer Cha Min Kyu and his sister Cha Min Hee lead to a confrontational and deadly situation.
10. UNLOCKED (스마트폰을 떨어뜨렸을 뿐인데)
- IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Summary: Lee Na Mi loses her smartphone, which sets off a chain of events that threatens her ordinary life. Oh Jun Yeong, using her phone, commits crimes while Detective Woo Ji Man investigates a murder case involving his son as a suspect.
With a diverse range of stories that span different eras and perspectives, these Korean crime movies promise to offer thrilling experiences for moviegoers worldwide. Get ready to immerse yourself in the gripping narratives, intense action, and suspenseful twists that these films have in store. Mark your calendars and prepare to be captivated by the world of Korean crime cinema in 2023