Popular Korean Movies Among American Audiences
Korean films have gained tremendous popularity in the U.S. over the past two decades — both among critics and general viewers. Here are some of the most beloved and acclaimed Korean movies in the U.S.:
Parasite (2019)
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Awards: 4 Academy Awards (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best International Feature)
Why it's popular: A sharp, darkly comedic take on class inequality. Universally acclaimed and widely streamed on platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime.
Oldboy (2003)
Director: Park Chan-wook
Why it's popular: A gripping revenge thriller with shocking twists. A cult favorite in the U.S. and praised by directors like Quentin Tarantino.
A Hollywood remake was released in 2013.
The Host (2006)
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Why it's popular: A creature feature with strong political and social undertones. Blends horror, comedy, and family drama in a uniquely Korean way.
Featured at Sundance and other international festivals.
Burning (2018)
Director: Lee Chang-dong
Why it's popular: A slow-burn psychological mystery praised for its ambiguity and depth.
Named one of the best films of the year by The New York Times and LA Times.
Train to Busan (2016)
Director: Yeon Sang-ho
Why it's popular: A zombie thriller with emotional weight. Gained viral popularity on Netflix and became a global phenomenon.
I Saw the Devil (2010)
Director: Kim Jee-woon
Why it's popular: A brutal and intense revenge film with a strong cult following among horror fans.
Secret Sunshine (2007)
Director: Lee Chang-dong
Why it's popular: A deeply emotional story about grief, faith, and forgiveness.
Critically acclaimed and awarded at Cannes Film Festival.
📺 Trending Korean Movies on U.S. Streaming Platforms
Space Sweepers (2021)
Korea’s first big-budget space sci-fi, popular on Netflix.
20th Century Girl (2022)
A nostalgic coming-of-age romance that resonated with younger
audiences.
Project Wolf Hunting (2022)
A violent, action-packed horror flick gaining traction with genre
fans.
📰 Korean Films Endorsed by American Media and Celebrities
Bong Joon-ho’s Filmography:
Snowpiercer,
Mother, etc.
Park Chan-wook’s Works:
The Handmaiden was named
one of the best films of the year by
The New York Times.
Netflix Originals:
Kill Boksoon,
Carter,
Night in Paradise, and
more.
