10 Korean Films with the Best Awards That Must Be on Your Watchlist!

Kapanlagi.com - Korean films have made remarkable achievements in the international film scene over the past two decades. From the prestigious Academy Awards to the Cannes Film Festival, Korean films with the best awards have successfully captured the world's attention with their unique narratives and stunning cinematic quality for you to watch.

Not just entertaining, Korean films with awards present sharp social critiques and innovative storytelling that make audiences think critically. This has opened the world's eyes to the fact that the Korean film industry deserves to be considered as one of the high-quality producers in global cinema.

What are these Korean films? Here is a list of Korean films with the best awards that must be on your watchlist. Let's check it out, KLovers!

1. PARASITE (2019)

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The film PARASITE tells the story of the poor Ki-taek family who manages to infiltrate one by one as workers in the wealthy Park family. Manipulation and lies are revealed when dark secrets come to light.

One of the best award-winning Korean films that brilliantly addresses social inequality through the dark comedy-thriller genre. With Academy Awards (4 categories including Best Picture), Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

2. OLDBOY (2003)

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The film OLDBOY tells the story of Oh Dae-su's revenge after being mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years. After being released, he seeks answers and vengeance, but discovers a shocking truth.

This award-winning Korean film presents a stunning plot twist with Park Chan-wook's mesmerizing performance. It received the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival.

3. BURNING (2018)

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The film BURNING tells the story of Jong-su, who reunites with Hae-mi, his childhood friend, who then mysteriously disappears after meeting the wealthy Ben.

This award-winning Korean film explores obsession, jealousy, and mystery with a deep psychological nuance, winning the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

4. THE HANDMAIDEN (2016)

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Set in Korea during the Japanese colonial era, the film THE HANDMAIDEN tells the story of a con artist who recruits a thief to become a Japanese nobleman's maid in order to steal her inheritance.

A highly awarded Korean film that combines romance, thriller, and period drama with a surprising twist. Winner of the BAFTA Film Awards for Best Foreign Language Film.

5. PIETA (2012)

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Next, there is the film PIETA which tells the story of a cruel debt collector who meets a woman claiming to be his biological mother. This encounter changes his life and leads him on a journey of redemption.

A Korean film with top awards that presents a dark drama about redemption and love. This film has prestigious awards, including the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

6. SECRET SUNSHINE (2007)

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The film SECRET SUNSHINE tells the story of Shin-ae moving to the small town of Miryang with her son, but tragedy changes her life. A Korean film with top awards that explores many themes.

Such as grief, faith, and the search for meaning in life with a deep humanistic touch. The film SECRET SUNSHINE won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for Jeon Do-yeon.

7. MEMORIES OF MURDER (2003)

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Based on the true story of the first serial murders in South Korea. The film MEMORIES OF MURDER tells the story of two detectives trying to solve the case using different methods.

A critically acclaimed Korean film that combines a crime thriller with sharp social critique. The film MEMORIES OF MURDER has received the Best Film award at the Asian Film Awards.

8. DECISION TO LEAVE (2022)

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The film DECISION TO LEAVE tells the story of a detective named Hae-joon investigating the death of a man and becoming intrigued by the victim's mysterious wife. This Korean film has received best awards, presenting a romantic neo-noir story with stunning visuals. It also won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival for Park Chan-wook.

9. SPRING, SUMMER, FALL, WINTER... AND SPRING (2003)

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Next, there is the film SPRING, SUMMER, FALL, WINTER... AND SPRING which tells the story of a young monk's spiritual journey as he learns about life through the four seasons.

This Korean film has received best awards and offers a deep reflection on the cycle of life with stunning visuals. It won the Best Foreign Film award at the San Sebastian International Film Festival.

10. MOTHER (2009)

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The film MOTHER tells the story of a mother fighting to prove her son's innocence after he is accused of murder. This award-winning Korean film presents a mystery drama with a deep exploration of maternal love. It won the Best Foreign Film at the Critics' Choice Awards.

These are some of the best award-winning Korean films that you can watch. These films provide entertainment that you must watch right away, because if not now, when?

(kpl/dhm)