Korean Detective Films Full of Puzzles That Will Keep You Hooked and Curious

Kapanlagi.com - Korean films that feature detective themes have become a favorite among cinema lovers. Why? Because every show always presents a storyline full of puzzles and mysteries, making the audience eager to trace every clue available.

Moreover, the tension presented in these films keeps us guessing who the real culprit is behind each case faced. It’s no wonder that every release of a detective film is always eagerly awaited!

Here are six recommendations for Korean detective films that are packed with thrilling puzzles. Get ready to experience an unforgettable exciting sensation! Don't forget to check the latest information about the entertainment world at Liputan6.com. (kpl/fdy)

1. TARGET (2023)

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The latest Korean film titled "TARGET" released in 2023 presents a gripping tension in the thriller genre. The story focuses on Soo Hyun, a woman who has just moved into a new home and purchased a second-hand washing machine online to replace the broken one. However, disappointment strikes when the washing machine turns out to be non-functional, and Soo Hyun feels cheated. In her attempt to find the fraudulent seller, she sends warning messages that provoke the seller's anger, leading to a terrifying act of revenge, starting from obscene phone calls to sending food and visiting her residence. As the tension escalates, Soo Hyun receives help from the police and a detective, which leads them to a shocking discovery: a body that reveals the washing machine seller is a serial killer. "TARGET," which premiered on September 13, 2023, stars Shin Hye Sun, Kim Sung Kyun, and Lim Chul Soo, promising a thrilling experience not to be missed.

2. DEVILS (2023)

The Korean film "DEVILS" successfully captured the audience's attention since its premiere on July 5, 2023. It tells the story of a detective named Jae Hwan who is obsessed with capturing a serial killer who took the lives of his colleague and brother-in-law two years ago, taking us on a thrilling adventure. When Jae Hwan finally encounters Jin Hyuk, the killer, an unexpected accident occurs, changing everything. In a state of consciousness after treatment, Jae Hwan is shocked to find his body swapped with Jin Hyuk. With time running out, he must fight to find Jin Hyuk and prevent a greater disaster. "DEVILS" dazzles the audience thanks to the brilliant performances of renowned actors such as Jang Dong Yoon, Oh Dae Hwan, and Song Jong Hak, making it a must-watch film!

3. THE ROUNDUP NO WAY OUT (2023)

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The Korean film that is currently stealing attention, THE ROUNDUP NO WAY OUT, was officially released in June 2023 and quickly became a favorite among viewers. As a sequel to the previous films, THE ROUNDUP (2022) and THE OUTLAWS (2017), this action genre film continues the story of the tough detective Ma Seok Do, who now joins the Metropolitan Investigation Team under the leadership of Jang Tae Soo. In this dangerous mission, Ma Seok Do, known for his extraordinary strength and unmatched resilience, collaborates with his team to hunt down Japanese gangsters operating behind criminal activities. Wrapped in stunning performances from renowned stars such as Ma Dong Seok, Lee Joon Hyuk, Jun Kunimura, and Lee Beom Soo, this film also features Ma Do Seok not only as the lead actor but also as the executive producer, adding to the appeal of this action-packed work.

4. I AM HERE (2023)

The latest Korean film titled "I AM HERE" is set to captivate audiences in 2023 with a storyline full of mystery and tension. It tells the story of detective Seon Doo who is hunting for a murder suspect named Kyu Jong, and the plot becomes even more intriguing when they both get entangled in a shocking fact: they are actually organ donors from a killer that Seon Doo had caught in the past. Directed by Shin Keun Ho, "I AM HERE" premiered on April 12, 2023, and features captivating performances from Jo Han Sun, Jung Jin Woon, and Jung Tae Woo, making it a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre!

5. DECISION TO LEAVE (2022)

(credit: mydramalist)

The Korean film "Decision to Leave" released in 2022 has successfully captured attention as one of the detective works full of mystery. It tells the story of a detective named Hae Joon, and the film begins with the investigation of the mysterious death of a man who fell from the top of a mountain. In the process, Hae Joon meets Seo Rae, the victim's wife, who not only becomes a witness but also gets directly involved in the investigation. Hae Joon's suspicion towards Seo Rae gradually turns into love as they uncover layer after layer of the mystery surrounding her husband's death. Directed by the renowned Park Chan Wook, the film has earned a main nomination for the Palme d'Or at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival and stars a lineup of talented actors such as Park Hae Il and Tang Wei, making it a must-watch.

6. VANISHING (2022)

The Korean film titled VANISHING is set to captivate detective genre lovers with its thrilling and mysterious plot! Released in 2022, this work tells the story of Alice Launey, a forensic scientist who discovers a revolutionary technique to restore the condition of decayed bodies. An golden opportunity arises when Alice is invited to South Korea, where she becomes embroiled in a complicated murder investigation. Together with detective Ji Hoo, she attempts to uncover the identity of a victim found floating in a river, only to realize that the body is linked to an illegal organ trafficking syndicate. Adapted from the novel THE KILLING ROOM by Peter May, VANISHING is an exciting collaboration between South Korea and France, starring renowned actors such as Yoo Yeon Seok and Olga Kurylenko, making it a must-see!

7. EXTREME JOB (2019)

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The film "EXTREME JOB" presents a story full of laughter and action about a group of narcotics detectives who are forced to disguise themselves as fried chicken sellers to thwart a crime syndicate. Led by Team Leader Detective Go, they are almost desperate after a series of failed missions. However, unexpectedly, their chicken shop goes viral and becomes popular, creating a ridiculous situation that tests their abilities. This unexpected success becomes an obstacle in their main mission to catch the drug criminals, making every moment even more thrilling and hilarious.

8. THE ACCIDENTAL DETECTIVE (2015

In the film "The Accidental Detective," we are invited to delve into the exciting adventures of Dae-Man, a comic book store owner who has been obsessed with the world of detectives since childhood. With an unstoppable spirit, he often visits the police station to give his opinions to the detectives. However, his life changes drastically when his friend, Detective Joon-soo, gets caught in the accusation of murdering his wife. To defend his wronged friend, Dae-Man collaborates with Detective Noh to investigate this case, determined to uncover the truth hidden behind the dark mystery.

9. DARK FIGURE OF CRIME (2018)

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"DARK FIGURE OF CRIME" is a gripping crime drama inspired by a true story in Busan, where many murders remain hidden and bodies undetected. The story follows Detective Kim Hyung-min, brilliantly portrayed by Kim Yoon-seok, as he becomes entangled in a psychological game with a serial killer named Kang Tae-oh. Tae-oh claims to have killed seven people, but Detective Kim must struggle hard to find strong evidence to uncover the truth behind a confession that may just be a deadly deception.

10. FOLLOWING (2024)

The film "FOLLOWING" tells the story of Jung Tae, a property agent with a unique hobby: investigating the personal lives of those around him. Utilizing access to clients' homes, his deep curiosity leads him to a shocking discovery—a famous influencer, Han So Ra, lying dead in her apartment. From this point, Jung Tae becomes ensnared in the web of an investigation into a mysterious death that shakes him, where he begins to suspect a fanatic fan and YouTuber who seems to have a close connection to the victim.

11. FAQ

Who doesn't love a Korean detective film full of intrigue and surprises? Some titles worth adding to your watchlist are "Extreme Job," "The Accidental Detective," "Dark Figure of Crime," and "Following." Among all of them, "Extreme Job" stands out with its tickling comedic touch, telling the story of a group of detectives who disguise themselves as fried chicken sellers to uncover a major case. Meanwhile, "Dark Figure of Crime" offers real tension, inspired by the story of an unsolved murder in Busan. Don't miss the latest news from the entertainment world, just visit Kapanlagi.com. If not now, then when?

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