- Photo 1:
- Masquerade / CJ Entertainment
- Photo 2:
- The Admiral: Roaring Currents / CJ Entertainment America
The Best Korean Historical Movies Of All Time
Vote on the best Korean historical movies of all time.
If you like movies about kings or South Korean history, then you'll probably enjoy the best Korean historical movies. From period films to action dramas, this list of famous Korean historical films includes South Korea's highest-grossing films, like The Admiral: Roaring Currents, Masquerade, and The King and the Clown. If you're looking for new and recent movies, Park Chan-wook's The Handmaiden depicts a love triangle in a Japanese-occupied Korea.
Vote up the top Korean historical movies, and check back to see the list updated with the latest releases.
- 1Song Kang-ho, Yoo Ah-in, Moon Geun-young
The Throne, a riveting historical drama, showcases a chilling power struggle as King Yeongjo, masterfully played by Song Kang-ho, faces off against his own son, Crown Prince Sado. From its potent storytelling to the palpable tension amidst the royal family, it is no wonder this film has been hailed as one of Korea's finest historical narratives.
- 2
Masquerade
Han Hyo-joo, Lee Byung-hun, Shim Eun-kyungMasquerade, a masterstroke of Korean cinema, deftly weaves a tale set in the Joseon Dynasty, as a lowly street performer, Ha-seon, skillfully portrayed by Lee Byung-hun, assumes the mantle of King Gwanghae during a period of political unrest. Audiences were left spellbound by the intricate plot, vivid characters, and a mesmerizing portrayal of history.
- 3Choi Min-sik, Ryu Seung-ryong, Cho Jin-woong
The Admiral: Roaring Currents takes the spotlight with its epic retelling of the legendary Admiral Yi Sun-sin's decisive naval victory against an invading Japanese fleet. This thrilling saga, bolstered by breath-taking cinematography and a phenomenal performance from Choi Min-sik, has captured both awards and hearts alike.
- 4Song Kang-ho, Thomas Kretschmann, Ryu Jun-yeol
A Taxi Driver mesmerizes viewers with the incredible story of a humble cab driver, played by Song Kang-ho, who unwittingly becomes a vital lifeline for a German journalist during Korea's turbulent Gwangju Uprising. Its gripping plot and captivating portrayal of human resilience have ensured its status as a timeless classic.
- 5Lee Joon-gi, Kam Woo-sung, Jung Jin-young
The King and the Clown, a cinematic tour de force, centers on the heartfelt journey of two jesters, Jang-saeng and Gong-gil, who are brought before the tyrannical King Yeonsan. Set against the majestic backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty, this film masterfully intertwines humor and tragedy, brilliantly capturing the essence of the period.
- 6Lee Byung-hun, Kim Yoon-seok, Park Hae-il
The Fortress, a war-drama based on Kim Hoon's novel Namhansanseong, recalls the harrowing tale of the Joseon Dynasty trapped in a deadly siege during the Second Manchu invasion of Korea. Taut with conflict and tension, this gritty portrayal of survival and the fateful decisions has propelled it to the forefront of Korean historical cinema.
- 7Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, Ha Jung-woo
The Handmaiden, a thrilling adaptation of Sarah Waters' novel Fingersmith, immerses viewers in Japanese-occupied Korea, where a burgeoning love story unfolds between a noblewoman and her handmaiden. Laden with intriguing plot twists and poignant romance, this film has cemented its place as one of Korea's most successful historical narratives.
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- 8Son Ye-jin, Park Hae-il, Yoon Je-moon
The Last Princess tells the heartbreaking story of Princess Deok-hye, Korea's last princess during the turbulent Japanese colonial period. Anchored by a soul-stirring performance from Son Ye-jin, this film is a tear-jerking tribute to a figure lost in the pages of history.
- 9Song Kang-ho, Gong Yoo, Han Ji-min
The Age of Shadows takes viewers on a suspenseful journey set amidst the Japanese occupation of Korea, where allegiances are tested and loyalties betrayed. This espionage thriller, brimming with unforgettable characters and formidable performances from Song Kang-ho and Gong Yoo, leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 10
The Face Reader
Song Kang-ho, Lee Jung-jae, Baek Yun-shikThe Face Reader takes viewers into the enigmatic world of physiognomy, as a gifted face reader finds himself entangled in political intrigue during the Joseon Dynasty. Embodying the tumultuous era, this beguiling film wends between incisive wit and charged drama.
- 11
Assassination
Jun Ji-hyun, Lee Jung-jae, Ha Jung-wooAssassination, a riveting tale of intrigue and vengeance, chronicles the perilous mission of exiled independence fighters seeking to kill the Japanese commander during the 1930s. This extraordinary film enchants viewers with its pulse-pounding action sequences, powerful performances, and enthralling narrative.
- 12Lee Young-ae, Lee Byung-hun, Song Kang-Ho
Joint Security Area delves into the investigation of a fatal shooting incident at the tense border between North and South Korea. Boasting gripping performances from Lee Young-ae, Lee Byung-hun, and Song Kang-ho, this engrossing story of unlikely camaraderie and the tragic consequences of war has cemented its status as a must-watch Korean classic.
- 13Shin Ha-kyun, Kang Hye-jung, Jae-kyeong Seo
Welcome to Dongmakgol enchants viewers with its heartwarming tale of North and South Korean soldiers finding refuge in an idyllic village during the Korean War. A powerful portrayal of the human spirit and the strength of unity, this film has firmly established its place in the annals of Korean cinema.
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- 14Kim Yoon-seok, Ha Jung-woo, Yoo Hae-jin
1987: When the Day Comes examines a pivotal year in South Korea's fight for democracy as a student's wrongful death sparks nationwide protests. This film strikes a chord with viewers through its portrayal of the indomitable human spirit and its testament to the power of people uniting against injustice.
- 15Han Suk-kyu, Go Soo, Park Shin-hye
The Royal Tailor weaves an intricate tale of rivalry and unspoken love in the royal court of the Joseon Dynasty. The masterful storytelling, replete with lavish costumes and superb performances from Park Shin-hye and Go Soo, has garnered acclaim for this mesmerizing historical drama.
- 16Jang Dong-gun, Won Bin, Lee Eun-ju
Taegukgi, a cinematic masterpiece, follows two brothers torn apart by the ravages of the Korean War. Laden with heart-wrenching emotion, brotherly love, and heart-pounding action, this epic war drama has earned its place as iconic Korean cinema.
- 17Hwang Jung-min, Yunjin Kim, Oh Dal-su
Ode to My Father grips audiences with the poignant tale of Yoon Deok-soo, who makes immense sacrifices amidst the chaos of the Korean War and its aftermath. Through its evocative storytelling and compelling emotional undercurrent, this film resonates with audiences as one of Korea's most memorable historical dramas.
- 18Son Ye-jin, Kim Nam-gil, Lee Geung-young
The Pirates hooks viewers with its swashbuckling tale of treasure-hunting marauders and royal outlaws during the Joseon Dynasty. Bursting with action, adventure, and a dash of humor, this thrilling voyage has cemented its place as a beloved classic.
- 19Jo In-sung, Nam Joo-hyuk, Park Sung-woong
The Great Battle, a riveting reimagining of the Siege of Ansi, chronicles the epic stand of Korean forces against a colossal Tang Dynasty army. Gritty battles, powerful camaraderie, and a heart-pounding tale of survival make this an unforgettable entry in Korean historical cinema.
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- 20Kang Ha-neul, Han Hyo-joo, Lee Kwang-soo
The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure seamlessly combines action, adventure, and humor as swashbuckling pirates embark on a thrilling quest during the Joseon Dynasty. This high-seas escapade has captured the imagination of viewers with its compelling narrative and tantalizing glimpse of Korean history.
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- 21Ji-hyo Song, Song Joong-ki, Joo Jin-mo
A Frozen Flower captures the complexity of love, loyalty, and betrayal within the royal court during the Goryeo Dynasty. Stirring performances from Jo In-sung, Joo Jin-mo, and Song Ji-hyo, coupled with evocative storytelling, have established this film as a stunning work of historical drama.
- 22Moon Chae-won, Jeon Min-seo, Park Ki-woong
War of the Arrows takes aim at the heart of cinematic brilliance with its action-packed tale of a skilled archer seeking to rescue his kidnapped sister during the Second Manchu invasion of Korea. The stunning choreography and breathtaking plot twists cement this film as a must-see Korean historical saga.
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- 23
The Fatal Encounter
Hyun-bin, Jung Jae-young, Jo Jung-sukThe Fatal Encounter transports us to the Joseon Dynasty, where we follow the tale of King Jeongjo as he fends off a deadly assassination plot. Ensnared with devious schemes, mesmerizing performances, and enthralling action, this powerful depiction of regal intrigue leaves a lasting impression.
- 24
Memories of the Sword
Lee Byung-hun, Jeon Do-yeon, Kim Go-eunMemories of the Sword whisks viewers away to the Goryeo Dynasty, where a tale of fierce rivalry and vengeance unfolds with breathtaking swordplay. With its compelling plot, rich visuals, and devastating emotions, it has earned its place as a stunning piece of Korean historical cinema.
- 25Ji Sung, Cha Seung-won, Cheon Ho-Jin
Blood Rain, an enthralling whodunit set in the 19th-century Joseon Dynasty, follows the investigation of a series of gruesome murders in a remote island village. Combining elements of crime, mystery, and historical intrigue, this film has captivated audiences and critics alike.
- 26Yoo Seung-ho, Go Ara, Kwak Do-won
The Magician conjures a mesmerizing tale of romance and mystery during the twilight of the Joseon Dynasty. In a whirlwind of mesmerizing illusions and a captivating love story that unfolds between a skilled street magician and a beautiful princess, this spellbinding film leaves viewers entranced.
- 27Shim Eun-kyung, Lee Seung-gi, Kim Sang-kyung
The Princess and the Matchmaker enchants viewers with a charming tale of a princess seeking to find her true love amidst the Shilla Dynasty. A delightful blend of romance, humor, and history makes this a cherished favorite among Korean cinema enthusiasts.
- 28Doh Kyung-soo, Park Hye-su, Jared Grimes
Swing Kids sets the stage in a war-torn 1950s Korean POW camp, where prisoners and captors alike find solace in the rhythm and harmony of dance. This captivating film, imbued with heart and hope, has struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.
- 29Hyun Bin, Jang Dong-gun, Lee Sun-bin
Rampant draws viewers into a chilling world infested with a nightmare plague that threatens the lives of its denizens during the Joseon Dynasty. With heart-stopping action, gripping suspense, and boldly combining history with a gritty horror twist, it stands out among Korean historical films.
More Rampant - 30Lee Jung-jae, Yeo Jin-goo, Kim Mu-yeol
Warriors of the Dawn transports viewers to the tumultuous era of the 16th-century war between the Japanese forces and the Korean people. A film that combines powerful storytelling, engaging characters, and high-stakes action, it has admirably carved its niche within the Korean historical drama genre.
