Sep 15, 2023

Korean Cinema's Global Influence: 12 Movies That Redefined Film History

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Peppermint Candy

Peppermint Candy, directed by Lee Chang-dong, showcases non-linear storytelling. It navigates the protagonist's life in reverse, revealing the profound effects of societal change in a gripping emotional journey.

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Oldboy

Park Chan-wook's Oldboy is a masterclass in revenge cinema. Known for its visceral brutality and shocking plot twists, it left an indelible imprint on international cinema and inspired countless filmmakers to experiment with dark and unsettling narratives.

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Parasite

Bong Joon-ho's Parasite made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Its scathing social commentary, coupled with its genre-blending storytelling, showcased the potential of Korean cinema to engage global audiences.

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The Handmaiden

Park Chan-wook returned with The Handmaiden, a visually stunning and erotically charged thriller. This film challenged conventions by seamlessly blending elements of psychological drama and period romance.

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The Housemaid

Released in 1960, Kim Ki-young's The Housemaid laid the foundation for Korean horror cinema. Its tale of domestic horror and social critique has influenced countless filmmakers, making it a classic in its own right.

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Memories Of Murder

Bong Joon-ho's Memories of Murder is a gripping crime drama based on true events. Its exploration of the imperfections in the Korean justice system showcased the potential of Korean filmmakers to address complex societal issues.

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Burning

Lee Chang-dong's Burning is a slow-burning psychological thriller that explores themes of class disparity and obsession. Its enigmatic storytelling and thought-provoking narrative left audiences in awe.

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The Wailing

Na Hong-jin's The Wailing is a haunting horror film that combines elements of supernatural horror and crime thriller. It captivated audiences with its eerie atmosphere and intricate storytelling.

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A Tale Of Two Sisters

Kim Jee-woon's A Tale of Two Sisters redefined horror in Korean cinema. This visually stunning and psychologically intense film explored family trauma in a chilling and unforgettable way.

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Train To Busan

Yeon Sang-ho's Train to Busan reinvented the zombie genre. Its high-octane action sequences and emotional depth made it a global sensation, proving that Korean cinema could excel in genre filmmaking.

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I Saw The Devil

Kim Jee-woon's I Saw the Devil pushed the boundaries of revenge cinema. Its relentless violence and exploration of the blurred line between good and evil challenged conventional storytelling.

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The Quiet Family

Kim Jee-woon's black comedy The Quiet Family showcased the Korean talent for blending humour and darkness. This film's quirky characters and unique premise have left a lasting impact on dark comedy worldwide.

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