Korean movies have achieved global recognition not only for their compelling stories but also for their impressive ratings from both audiences and critics. This curated list showcases 25 of the best Korean films with the highest ratings of all time—across romance, action, thriller, and dramatic genres. From classic masterpieces to new box office hits, these titles reflect the diversity and excellence of Korean cinema.
Top 5 Highest-Rated Korean Romance Movies
Romantic Korean films consistently impress with their depth and unique storytelling. IMDb, a trusted source for movie ratings, consistently features these titles at the top.
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Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter… and Spring
This visually stunning film follows a wise teacher raising a boy in the Korean wilderness, teaching lessons about love and serenity through a cycle of seasonal changes.- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Main Cast: Kim Ki Duk, Oh Yeong Su, Jong Ho Kim
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
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The Classic
Directed by Kwak Jae-yong, this film tells two parallel love stories across generations—one of a mother in the late 60s and her daughter in the present day.- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Main Cast: Son Ye Jin, Sho Seung Woo, Jo In Sung
- Streaming: iQIYI
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Decision to Leave
A detective investigating a mysterious death becomes involved with the victim’s enigmatic wife. This film cleverly mixes romance and thriller elements.- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Main Cast: Tang Wei, Park Hae Il, Lee Jung Hyun
- Streaming: iQIYI
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Love Untangled
A 19-year-old facing a life-changing confession and an unexpected connection with a new student brings relatable teenage drama and heartfelt moments.- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Main Cast: Gong Myoung, Shin Eun Soo, Cha Woo Min
- Streaming: Netflix
- Thirst
This unconventional romance-thriller follows a priest turned vampire, forced to confront his desires and humanity after a failed medical experiment.- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Main Cast: Song Kang Ho, Kim Ok Bin, Choi Hee Jin
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
Top 5 Highest-Rated Korean Action Movies
For adrenaline seekers, action films from Korea offer intense narratives and dynamic performances. These are among the highest-rated action features.
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I Saw the Devil
A secret agent relentlessly hunts down a serial killer, delivering a dark and suspenseful revenge tale packed with tension.- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Main Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Choi Min Sik
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
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Mother
Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this film explores a mother’s unwavering determination to prove her son’s innocence, blending drama with thrilling investigation.- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Main Cast: Kim Hye-ja, Won Bin
- Streaming: –
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Train to Busan
A viral outbreak traps passengers on a speeding train, forcing them to fight for survival in this internationally acclaimed zombie thriller.- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Main Cast: Gong Yoo, Jung Yu Mi, Ma Dong Seok
- Streaming: Netflix, iQIYI, HBO Max, Apple TV
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The Witch: Part 1 – The Subversion
A high school girl with amnesia uncovers dark secrets from her past when mysterious figures begin to pursue her.- IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Main Cast: Kim Da Mi, Jo Min Soo, Choi Woo Sik
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, iQIYI, Hulu
- The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil
A gang leader teams up with a police officer to catch a serial killer, resulting in a gripping and unconventional partnership.- IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Main Cast: Ma Dong Seok, Kim Mu Yeol
- Streaming: Netflix
Top 5 Highest-Rated Korean Sad Movies
These films are known for their emotional depth and ability to move audiences, often blending drama and suspense.
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Parasite
Winner of the Oscar for Best Picture, this film explores class division through the relationship of two contrasting families.- IMDb Rating: 8.5
- Main Cast: Song Kang Ho, Lee Sun Kyun, Cho Yeo Jeong
- Streaming: iQIYI
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Oldboy
A man unfairly imprisoned for 15 years seeks vengeance upon release, offering a narrative packed with action and emotion.- IMDb Rating: 8.3
- Main Cast: Choi Min Sik, Yoo Ji Tae, Kang Hye Jung
- Streaming: Apple TV, Amazon Video
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Memories of Murder
Inspired by real events, two detectives face frustration and horror while investigating serial murders in a small town.- IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Main Cast: Song Kang Ho, Kim Sang Kyung, Kim Roe Ha
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV
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Unforgettable (Pure Love)
A touching account of five friends whose summer together is shaped by love and misunderstandings, told through the lens of nostalgia.- IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Main Cast: D.O, Kim So Hyun
- Streaming: iQIYI
- Past Lives
Separated as children, two lifelong friends reunite as adults, offering viewers a bittersweet exploration of fate and longing.- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Main Cast: Greta Lee, Yoo Teo, John Magaro
- Streaming: Showtime, Amazon Prime Video
Top 5 Highest-Rated New Korean Movies
Recent releases stand out with fresh themes and impressive ratings, captivating both local and global audiences.
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No Other Choice
Following years of unemployment, a desperate man resorts to drastic action against his competition, weaving in crime, comedy, and suspense.- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Main Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Son Ye Jin, Park Hee Son
- Streaming: JustWatch
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Hello Ghost
A man plagued by failed suicide attempts becomes host to quirky ghosts, discovering surprising connections to his past.- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Main Cast: Cha Tae Hyun, Ye Won
- Streaming: –
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Exhuma
A terrifying grave excavation unleashes horrors long buried, generating viral buzz and chills among viewers.- IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Main Cast: Choi Min Sik, Kim Go Eun
- Streaming: iQIYI, Vidio, Apple TV
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My Daughter Is a Zombie
A strict animal trainer faces chaos when his rebellious daughter is infected during a zombie outbreak, adding heartfelt moments to the undead genre.- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Main Cast: Jo Jung Suk, Lee Jeong Eun
- Streaming: –
- Pretty Crazy
A sweet pastry trainee turns into a mischievous demon at night, leading to comedic challenges and unexpected romance.- IMDb Rating: 6.7
- Main Cast: Im Yoona, Ahn Bo Hyun
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
Top 5 Best Korean Movies on Netflix
Netflix offers a strong lineup of acclaimed Korean films, perfect for instant streaming.
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20th Century Girl
A heartwarming high school tale of friendship and first love, set in an era full of nostalgia, delivers both laughter and tears.- IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Main Cast: Kim Yoo Jung, Byeon Woo Seok
- Streaming: Netflix
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Night in Paradise
A gangster fleeing his past collides with a stubborn woman on Jeju Island, as bloody confrontations meet dark humor.- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Main Cast: Um Tae Goo, Jeon Yeo Been
- Streaming: Netflix
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Sweet and Sour
A refreshing romantic comedy about long-distance love, real-life relationship struggles, and new temptations.- IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Main Cast: Jang Ki Yong, Chae Soo Bin, Krystal Jung
- Streaming: Netflix
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Yaksha: Ruthless Operations
A daring NIS agent faces off against a law-abiding prosecutor on a perilous covert mission filled with twists and espionage action.- IMDb Rating: 6.3
- Main Cast: Sul Kyung Gu, Park Hae Soo
- Streaming: Netflix
- The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure
Adventurers and pirates clash over royal treasure in an action-packed comedy full of puzzles, battles, and vibrant characters.- IMDb Rating: 6.1
- Main Cast: Kang Ha Neul, Han Hyo Joo
- Streaming: Netflix
Korean films continue to expand their global reach by delivering powerful narratives, excellent performances, and fresh cinematic angles. These twenty-five films are essential viewing for anyone searching for the finest examples of Korean cinema, whether you prefer moving dramas, gripping thrillers, charming romances, or high-octane action. With ratings sourced from IMDb and streaming information verified on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and iQIYI, these movies are proven favorites among critics and audiences worldwide. Whether you are a new fan or a longtime enthusiast, this list ensures you won’t miss out on Korea’s most celebrated movie achievements.
