Craving a captivating movie night? Look no further than the best Korean movies on Netflix Philippines!
Korean films have become a global phenomenon, and Netflix offers a vast library to explore. With so many options, choosing the perfect one can be tricky. But worry not, cinephiles!
This guide curates the 10 best Korean movies on Netflix you won’t want to miss, from pulse-pounding thrillers to heartwarming romances. So, grab some snacks, settle in, and get ready to discover your next favourite Korean film!
Table of Contents
Top 10 Most Popular Korean Movies
1. Kill Boksoon (2023)
Get ready for an adrenaline rush with Kill Boksoon. This action-packed thriller follows Gil Bok-soon (Jeon Do-yeon), a legendary female assassin known for her ruthless efficiency.
But when a hit goes wrong and she’s tangled with a dangerous client, Bok-soon is forced to fight for her own life and protect her teenage daughter.
Why it is unique: I loved the film’s portrayal of a strong female lead who defies expectations. The fight choreography is phenomenal, and the story keeps you guessing until the very end.
Genre: Action, Thriller
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (based on Rotten Tomatoes)
Release Date: April 15, 2023
Director: Byun Young-ju
Cast: Jeon Do-yeon (Gil Bok-soon), Gu Sung-mo (Han Hee-sang)
Related Series: My Name (2021), Kingdom (2019-2021)
2. JUNG_E (2023)
Dive into a dystopian future with JUNG_E. In this thought-provoking sci-fi film, humanity struggles to survive on a ravaged Earth and relies on advanced AI for survival.
A researcher works tirelessly to clone the brain of a deceased elite soldier to create the perfect combat AI – but the project takes an unexpected turn. JUNG_E raises questions about artificial intelligence, human ethics, and the cost of war.
The film boasts impressive special effects and a complex story that will leave you pondering long after viewing.
Why is it unique: JUNG_E isn’t your typical sci-fi movie. It’s a thought-provoking adventure that pushes viewers to rethink how our quest for technology impacts the core of humanity.
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars (IMDB)
Release Date: January 20, 2023
Director: Yeon Sang-ho
Cast: Kang Soo-yeon (JUNG_E), Kim Hyun-joo (Seo Hyun), Ryu Kyung-soo (Sang-hoon)
Related Series: Black Mirror (Korean Version), Move to Heaven
3. 20th Century Girl (2022)
This nostalgic coming-of-age story is a must-watch for anyone who’s ever had a first love. In 20th Century Girl, a young woman in 2018 embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about her mother’s first love in the 1990s.
As she digs deeper into the past, she uncovers a heartwarming and heartbreaking story of friendship and missed connections.
Why is it unique: One of the best Korean films on Netflix beautifully captures the innocence and intensity of young love, and the cast delivers stellar performances.
Genre: Romance, Drama
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (based on MyDramaList)
Release Date: March 24, 2022
Director: Bang Woo-ri
Cast: Kim Yoo-jung (Na Bo-ra), Byeon Woo-seok (Poong Woon-ho), Park Seo-joon (Baek Hyun-jin) (adult)
Related Series: Nevertheless (2021), Twenty Five Twenty One (2022)
4. Space Sweepers (2021)
Looking for a space adventure with a Korean twist?
Space Sweepers is one of the best Korean films on Netflix! Set in a future where Earth is barely habitable, a ragtag crew of space scavengers scours the galaxy for valuable debris.
Their lives take an unexpected turn when they discover a little girl who may hold the key to saving humanity.
Why it is unique: This action-packed film features stunning visuals, a captivating story, and a great ensemble cast.
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from Google review)
Release Date: September 5, 2021
Director: Jo Sung-hee
Cast: Song Joong-ki (Tae-ho), Kim Tae-ri (Captain Jang), Jin Sun-kyu (Tiger Park)
Related Series: Lost in Space (2018-2022), Arcane (2021-present)
5. Love and Leashes (2022)
Love and Leashes offers a unique and heartwarming take on modern love. Ji-woo, a public relations professional, accidentally reveals her unconventional preference for BDSM to her co-worker Jung-ji.
Surprisingly, Jung-ji isn’t judgmental, and they begin a complicated yet sweet relationship.
Why is this unique: Another best Korean film on Netflix explores themes of self-acceptance, communication, and the importance of finding someone who loves you for who you are.
Genre: Rom-Com
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars (from MyDramaList)
Release Date: February 11, 2022
Director: Kim Joong-young
Cast: Jung Yoo-jin (Ji-woo), Jun-ho (Jung-ji)
Related Series: Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo (2016), Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022), Business Proposal (2022)
6. Okja (2017)
From the visionary mind of Bong Joon-ho, the mastermind behind Parasite, comes a cinematic gem that is essential viewing for those who cherish narratives infused with emotion.
Okja chronicles the remarkable tale of Mija, a spirited young girl, and her extraordinary connection with Okja, a genetically engineered super pig.
When the corporation responsible for Okja’s creation seeks to reclaim their asset, Mija courageously embarks on a daring quest to safeguard her cherished companion.
Why is it unique: One of the best Korean films on Netflix involving a heartwarming tale explores themes of friendship, environmentalism, and the ethics of genetic engineering.
Genre: Drama, Action-Adventure
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars (from Rotten Tomatoes)
Release Date: June 28, 2017
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Cast: Ahn Seo-hyun (Mija), Tilda Swinton (Lucy Mirando), Paul Dano (Jay)
Related Series: D.P. (Deserter Pursuit) (2021), Tomorrow (2022)
7. The 8th Night (2021)
Calling all horror fans! This is another one of the best Korean films on Netflix in horror.
The 8th Night is a chilling tale of good versus evil. When a series of mysterious red markings appear across the country, a sceptical monk and a disgraced exorcist must join forces to stop a malevolent spirit from unleashing eternal damnation.
Why is it unique: This film combines Korean folklore with modern horror elements, creating a truly frightening and suspenseful experience.
If you enjoy jump scares and a good scare, then The 8th Night is definitely worth checking out.
Genre: Horror, Mystery
Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars (from Google review)
Release Date: July 2, 2021
Director: Kim Tae-hyung
Cast: Lee Sung-min (Moon Ho-seok), Park Hae-joon (Cheon Jong-sin)
Related Series: Hellbound (2021 – Present), The Guest (2018), Stranger (2017 – Present), Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (2021)
8. The Fortress (2017)
The Fortress is another best Korean film on Netflix for people who like history and action. It tells the true story of the Siege of Hwaseong Fortress in 1792. The king wants to build a new fortress to protect the northern border, but some powerful people in the court don’t agree.
Why is it unique: Through compelling storytelling, The Fortress vividly portrays the valour and selflessness of those who valiantly defended their nation, delivering an exhilarating and suspenseful cinematic experience.
Genre: Historical, Action
Rating: 3.6 out of 5 stars (from Letterboxd)
Release Date: September 30, 2017
Director: Hwang Dong-hyuk (“Squid Game”)
Cast: Lee Byung-hun (Choi Myung-heon), Kim Yoon-seok (Kim Sang-heon)
Related Series: Six Flying Dragons (2015)
9. Tune in for Love (2019)
Prepare to be swept off your feet by Tune in for Love.
Set amidst the backdrop of the 1990s Korean radio revolution, this nostalgic romance follows the journey of two young individuals, Mi-soo and Sun-jae, whose lives intertwine through a radio show over several years.
With its stunning cinematography and compelling narrative, Tune in for Love leaves a lasting impression.
This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a heartwarming yet bittersweet romantic tale that lingers long after the screen fades to black.
Why is it unique: What makes it truly unique is its ability to seamlessly blend the magic of radio with the complexities of human connection, offering a refreshing take on the power of love in the digital age.
Genre: Romance, Drama
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (MyDramaList)
Release Date: August 28, 2019
Director: Jung Ji-woo
Cast: Jung Hae-in (Han Sun-jae), Kim Go-eun (Mi-soo)
Related Series: Tune in for Love (2019)
10. The Call (2020)
In this captivating thriller, we follow the intertwined lives of two women separated by time yet bound by a singular enigma: a mysterious phone within the confines of a single house.
As their fates dangerously collide across the ages, a suspenseful narrative unfurls, laden with intrigue, uncertainties, and divergent realities.
The Call promises an enthralling journey, keeping you on the edge of your seat until its final moments, leaving you spellbound and haunted well beyond the closing credits.
Genre: Thriller, Mystery
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from IMDb)
Release Date: March 11, 2020
Director: Lee Chung-hyun
Cast: Park Shin-hye (Seo-yeon), Jeon Jong-seo (Young-sook)
Related Series: Alice in Borderland (2020), Extracurricular (2020), Stranger (2017)
Best Korean Movies on Netflix – Bonus Section:
Want something different? Here are two great movies you should see:
1. The Villainess (2017):
This exciting movie is about a tough killer who becomes a single mom. It has amazing fighting scenes and a big surprise. If you like action, you’ll love The Villainess.
2. Beasts Clawing at Straws (2020):
This dark movie is like a puzzle. It follows four people in sad situations whose lives get mixed up. It’s not fast, but it’s worth watching. You’ll think about it long after it’s over.
Conclusion
Calling all K-movie lovers! Get ready to binge the 10 best Korean films on Netflix Philippines.
This list of best Korean films on Netflix is your launchpad into a world of genres: action-packed thrillers Kill Boksoon, Space Sweepers, heart-fluttering romances 20th Century Girl, Love and Leashes, supernatural chills The Call), and mind-bending sci-fi JUNG_E.
But wait, there’s more! This is just the beginning. Dive deeper, unearth hidden gems, and discover your own favourites. Craving zombies? We have got you covered with the 30 Best Horror Movies That Will Keep You Up At Night (2024).
So grab your snacks, settle in, and get swept away by the magic of Korean movies at the comfort of your home!
