Craving Thrills? Here Are the Best 5 Korean Thriller Movies Since "Parasite"

Following "Parasite"'s" historic Oscar win, the world has become captivated by the dark, thrilling world of Korean cinema.

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The success of Bong Joon-ho's movie was incredible, but where do you go from there?

This list dives into the best 6 Korean thrillers to hit the scene since "Parasite", with a diverse selection guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a list that has a bit of everything, from dystopian heists gone wrong to chilling mysteries and unsettling horrors.

So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to experience the next wave of Korean cinematic thrills!

"Space Sweepers"

South Korea's first ever space blockbuster "Space Sweepers" is a wild ride through a space filled with junk, both physical and moral.

The story follows a crew of space scavengers who stumble upon a valuable secret and a tough choice that challenges their moral standards.

Thought-provoking and timely, the film explores themes of wealth disparity and the desperation it can breed. Director Jo Sung-hee does a great job of wrapping it all up in a visually stunning space opera.

While science might not be perfect, the movie captures the feeling of space perfectly: chaotic, unforgiving, and full of potential danger. "Space Sweepers" is a fun film that will also leave you pondering the true cost of progress.

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"Space Sweepers" is directed by Jo Sung-hee, and features Song Joong-ki, Kim Tae-ri, Jin Sun-kyu, Yoo Hae-jin, Richard Armitage, Kim Mu-yeol. Release date in Korea: 2021/02/05.

 

"Time to Hunt"

Imagine a twisted South Korea, buried deep under a dystopian political climate. Here's where we find a band of friends, loyal to each other but desperate to make money.

Fresh out of prison (thanks to a botched heist), main character Jun-seok reunites with his crew. But their financial gains have become worthless due to a national economic collapse.

The solution? Another heist, this time targeting an illegal gambling den brimming with US dollars - the ultimate currency of survival. Now this betting establishment isn't like the modern online casino where all its funds are digital: it has real-life cash lying around, and lots of it.

But pulling off this audacious operation is just the first hurdle. They'll soon discover the real cost of their actions, and the true meaning of "Time to Hunt"".

This action-packed thriller boasts a stellar cast, including Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, and Park Jung-min. Fans of "Squid Game" will recognize Park Hae-soo, and eagle-eyed viewers might spot "Parasite"'s" Choi Wooshik in a supporting role.

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"Time to Hunt" is directed by Yoon Sung-hyun, and features Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, Choi Wooshik, Park Jung-min, Park Hae-soo, Lee Hang-na. Release date in Korea: 2020/04/23.

 

"Jung E"

Calling all sci-fi fans with a soft spot for emotional gut punches: "Jung E" by Yeon Sang-ho might be your next watch. This Netflix film is set in a war-torn 22nd century where humanity survives in space shelters.

The story centers around a researcher, Seo-hyeon, who's tasked with creating the ultimate AI soldier. The twist? The AI is a clone of Seo-hyeon's own mother, a legendary soldier named Yun Jung-yi.

The film boasts impressive action sequences (especially the opening and the final 15 minutes) but it does struggle with pacing. The director spends a lot of time experimenting with characters as he tackles various ethical issues.

Though these discussions are interesting, they overshadow the emotional core of the story - a daughter trying to save her mother's consciousness.

Here's the bottom line: "Jung E" showcases the director's talent but feels more like a promising first episode of a  than a satisfying movie. However, this movie does lay the groundwork for a richer story in a potential sequel, maybe even one with some zombies!

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"Jung E" is directed by Yeon Sang-ho, and features Kang Soo-yeon, Kim Hyun-joo, Ryu Kyung-soo, Lee Dong-hee-II, Han Woo-yeol, Yun Ki-chang. Release date in Korea: 2023/01/20.

 

"Kill Boksoon"

Remember Kill Bill? "Kill Boksoon" is the Korean answer to it.

The movie packs a punch with both its fight scenes and its surprisingly complex characters. Jeon Do-yeon plays Gil Bok-soon, a seemingly ordinary single mom who secretly moonlights as a deadly assassin.

While the film clocks in at a lengthy 137 minutes, the story is entertaining and perfect for binge-watching on streaming platforms. The dialogue is sharp and witty but be prepared to rely on subtitles (they're worth it!).

The real strength of "Kill Boksoon" lies in its characters and their relationships. Bok-soon juggles her dangerous career with raising her teenage daughter, Jae-yeong. Their dynamic gets even more interesting when Jae-yeong's secret life throws a wrench into things.

Beyond the mother-daughter bond, the film explores complex dynamics within the assassin company. Bok-soon negotiates office politics between her boss, Cha Min-gyoo and his ruthless younger sister, Cha Min-hee.

The action sequences are expertly choreographed and exciting, but it's the emotional core of the story that truly sets "Kill Boksoon" apart. The film leaves you wanting more, with a satisfying finale that hints at a potential sequel.

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"Kill Boksoon" is directed by Byun Sung-Hyun, and features Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Kim Si-a, Esom, Koo Kyo-hwan, Kim Sung-oh. Release date in Korea: 2023/03/31.

 

"The Point Men"

"The Point Men" is a South Korean film based on a real-life hostage crisis that took place in Afghanistan in 2007.

The story follows a group of Korean missionaries kidnapped by the Taliban. Negotiator Jae-ho struggles to free them through diplomacy, forcing him to team up with special agent Dae-sik.

Together, they face a race against time as they deal with a dangerous situation with both the hostages and their own lives hanging in the balance.

This film boasts a stacked cast, including familiar faces like Hwang Jung-min and Kang Ki-young.

If you're looking for a suspenseful and action-packed story rooted in historical events, "The Point Men" is a must-watch.

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"The Point Men" is directed by Yim Soon-rye, and features Hwang Jung-min, Hyun Bin, Kang Ki-young, Lee Seung-chul-I, Jung Jae-sung, Park Hyoung-soo. Release date in Korea: 2023/01/18.