11 Best Saeguk Films of All Time Seen from the Number of Viewers, from Fictional Stories - Historical History

Kapanlagi.com - Saeguk films have become one of the most beloved and respected genres in Korean cinema. Seen from the number of viewers, these successful saeguk films have built a reputation as unforgettable works in the history of Korean cinema.

With magnificent sets, stunning costumes, and deep epic stories, these films not only entertain but also invite viewers to understand the values of Korean history and culture. From thrilling political conflicts to heartwarming romances.

These best saeguk films have attracted millions of viewers worldwide and continue to be milestones in the Korean film industry. In this article, Kapanlagi will provide some recommendations for the best saeguk films of all time, seen from the number of viewers.

What are these films? Here is a list of the best saeguk films of all time seen from the number of viewers. Let's check it out KLovers.

1. KING AND THE CLOWN (2005)

Film King and the Clown (credit: imdb.com)

The best historical drama film of all time is KING AND THE CLOWN. Set in the 16th century Joseon Dynasty, two rural performers, the enthusiastic Jang Seng and the feminine Gong Gil, join an acting group struggling in Seoul.

Their controversial and mocking performance towards the king triggers unexpected events. They are captured and given a chance to live if they can make the king laugh. However, the king's attention towards Gong Gil sparks jealousy in the palace, creating conflicts between them.

2. WAR OF THE ARROWS (2011)

Film War of the Arrows (credit: imdb.com)

The second historical film is titled WAR OF THE ARROWS. It is set against the backdrop of the second Manchu invasion of Korea. This film focuses on the story of Nam Yi, the best archer in Korea, who desperately fights against the Qing Dynasty to save his sister Ja In, who has been dragged into their kingdom and held hostage.

3. DETECTIVE K: SECRET OF THE VIRTUOUS WIDOW (2011)

Film Detective K: Secret of the Virtuous Widow (credit: imdb.com)

Next, there is the film DETECTIVE K: SECRET OF THE VIRTUOUS WIDOW. This historical film tells the story of Joseon's best detective who is tasked by the King to investigate a series of mysterious murders. In his secret mission, he partners with Han Seo Pil and Han Gaek Ju.

Both of them are influential businessmen involved in the case. As they delve deeper, they uncover a dark secret that connects the murders to a large conspiracy that threatens all of Joseon.

4. MASQUERADE (2012)

Film Masquerade (credit: imdb.com)

Film MASQUERADE is also included in the list of the best historical films of all time. In the midst of national chaos and threats to the life of King Gwang Hae, his advisor, Heo Kyun, seeks a replacement by finding Ha Seon, a farmer impersonator who resembles the king.

When King Gwang Hae falls ill from poison, Ha Seon is forced to take his place. With a heavy heart, he takes on the responsibility as king, struggling to save the country from destruction, facing assassination attempts, and hosting an unforgettable masquerade party in history.

5. THE GRAND HEIST (2012)

Film The Grand Heist (credit: imdb.com)

The saeguk film titled THE GRAND HEIST tells the story of the late 18th century during the reign of King Yeong Jo of the Joseon Dynasty, where ice became a highly valuable commodity. Blocks of ice were harvested from frozen rivers in the winter and stored in the royal warehouse.

And these ice blocks were sold throughout the year. However, when corrupt officials attempted to monopolize and set the price of ice, a gang of 11 professionals was formed to stop their plan. They had to make all the ice blocks disappear overnight.

6. THE FACE READER (2013)

Film The Face Reader (credit: imdb.com)

In 2013, there was a saeguk film titled THE FACE READER. This film tells the story of Nae Kyung who can judge a person's personality, mental condition, and habits just by looking at their face. Because of his ability, he must get involved in the power struggle between Prince Soo Yang and Kim Jong Seo.

7. THE ADMIRAL: ROARING CURRENTS (2014)

Film The Admiral: Roaring Currents (credit: imdb.com)

Next, there is a film called THE ADMIRAL: ROARING CURRENTS. This saeguk film is set in 1597, when the Joseon Dynasty faces a threatening destruction by Japan, Admiral Yi Sun Shin who is humiliated is called upon as the last effort to lead the remaining 12 royal ships and doubtful forces against the powerful Emperor's 330 armada.

8. THE PIRATES (2014)

Film The Pirates (credit: imdb.com)

Film saeguk (historical) movie from 2014, the next film is THE PIRATES. As the Joseon Dynasty is about to be established, a Chinese delegation carries the Emperor's Seal and is swallowed by a whale during the journey. A large reward is announced for the return of the seal.

This motivates Jang Sa Jung and his crew to hunt down the whale. Soon, they find themselves in conflict with Yeo Wol, a female pirate captain, who leads them on an uncharted adventure in pirate territory.

9. KUNDO: AGE OF THE RAMPANT (2014)

Film Kundo: Age of the Rampant (credit: imdb.com)

Lanjut, ada film saeguk berjudul KUNDO: AGE OF THE RAMPANT. Pada tahun 1859, Joseon was hit by natural disasters, famine, and poverty. KUNDO, a group of kind-hearted thieves, becomes the hope for the poor and a nightmare for the unfair nobles.

Joo Yoon, the son of a wealthy nobleman and a concubine, gains absolute power after killing Dol Moo Chi, a vengeful butcher. Dol Moo Chi joins KUNDO and wields his sword to fight injustice and defend the weak.

10. THE THRONE (2015)

Film The Throne (credit: imdb.com)

Film THE THRONE is also included in the list of the best historical films of all time. It tells the story of the year 1762, during the reign of King Yeong Jo of the Joseon Dynasty, Crown Prince Sa Do is accused of planning treason by his own mother, Lady Yi.

King Yeong Jo is trapped in a dilemma as he cannot punish his own son without threatening his throne. Eventually, he orders Sa Do to commit suicide. However, Sa Do's followers oppose this decision and King Yeong Jo decides to lock Sa Do in a wooden box to kill him.

11. THE GREAT BATTLE (2018)

Film The Great Battle (credit: imdb.com)

And the next best historical film is titled THE GREAT BATTLE. It tells the story of Emperor Li from the Tang Dynasty starting their invasion of Goguryeo, one of the ancient kingdoms of Korea. With victory after victory, the Tang army marches towards Ansi.

This army is protected by General Yang, a great and powerful fortress ruler. Despite being abandoned by his country and outnumbered by thousands, this brave general gathers his troops to face the Tang army alone.

Those are some historical films that KLovers can watch for entertainment. With undeniable charm, these best historical films prove their power by moving the audience.

(kpl/dhm)