5 Korean Films That Will Make You Fall in Love with Seoul

South Korea offers a distinctive backdrop for cinema with its vibrant cityscapes, awe-inspiring mountain ranges, and ancient village communities. To experience Korean culture, history, and societal norms without leaving your house, consider watching these five movies as they transport you into this fascinating world.

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Parasite (2019)

Parasite , which claimed four Academy Awards and a Palme d'Or at Cannes, offers a captivating dive into the urban landscape of Seoul. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this movie stands out for highlighting the socio-economic disparities prevalent in South Korea’s capital. Through the story of a struggling family trying to insinuate themselves into the household of a rich clan, viewers explore two contrasting facets of Seoul: the impoverished districts prone to flooding with minimal precipitation, and the quiet opulence of an affluent class detached from broader societal issues.

The director masterfully portrays Korean society, revealing every aspect of this East Asian nation through impeccable artistry, making the movie an exploration into the heart of the culture. true South Korea .

Burning (2018)

For an entirely distinct theme, Lee Chang-dong's Burning is a psychological thriller that provides a reflective and enigmatic ambiance as it moves from Seoul to plunge you deeply into the countryside of South Korea.

The movie centers around a budding author who encounters a cryptic stranger; this individual’s opulence and unsettling actions spark numerous queries. Employing extensive views of empty farmlands and mesmerizing twilight scenes, the filmmaker guides viewers through a realm where the quietude and expansiveness of the settings amplify the protagonists’ feelings of isolation and doubt. Set against the backdrop of South Korea’s rustic terrain, these serene yet eerie vistas create an aura of mystery and closeness.

Last Train to Busan (2016)

Last Train to Busan Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, this blockbuster Korean film propels you onto a chaotic journey from Seoul to Busan. It plunges viewers into a zombie-apocalypse-stricken landscape where survivors battle for their lives onboard a speeding train turned nightmarish deathtrap.

Apart from the stunning violent scenes, the movie offers an exploration of various aspects of the nation: vibrant megacities filled with technology and quaint, old-fashioned railway hubs. This gripping film also provides a look at the coastal city of Busan, all while delving into weighty issues like social inequality and dishonest practices.

The Handmaiden (2016)

Park Chan-wook's masterpiece, The Handmaiden is a visually captivating voyage through Japan-controlled Korea during the 1930s. The storyline draws inspiration from Sarah Waters' British novel. Fingersmith is moved to an era where Japanese elements would intermingle with the architecture, costumes, and culture of Korea .

In this movie, we follow the tale of a servant and an heiress entangled in a web of manipulation and longing. The film is visually stunning, featuring meticulously maintained gardens and elegant interiors reminiscent of grand aristocratic palaces. It’s definitely worth watching!

Little Forest (2018)

Little Forest provides a refreshing escape from the fast-paced urban environment. The movie centers around a young lady who departs from Seoul to revisit her rural hometown. This gentle film explores the straightforward way of living in the Korean hinterlands, where nature’s cycles dictate activities like farming and cuisine preparation. Through lenswork imbued with tender poetry, the cinematography depicts serene snowy vistas during winter, lush colorful expanses in springtime, and bountiful yields as summer wanes.

Beyond serving as an homage to the straightforward lifestyle, Little Forest is an exploration of authentic Korean cuisine, where every meal is crafted with affection and attention. If you enjoy thoughtful movies, Little Forest truly embodies an unforgettable film experience.