If you loved the gripping action and emotional depth of The Childe (2023), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its intense storytelling, thrilling fight scenes, and complex characters. Whether you're craving more high-stakes drama or heart-pounding action, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil (2019)
Description: A tense crime thriller about an unlikely alliance between a gangster and a cop to catch a serial killer, blending action, suspense, and dark humor.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events involving a Korean gangster. It was well-received for its unique premise and strong performances.


The Man from Nowhere (2010)
Description: A gripping action-thriller with intense fight scenes and a deeply emotional core, focusing on a lone protagonist with a mysterious past who takes on dangerous criminals to protect an innocent child.
Fact: The film's climactic knife fight scene is considered one of the most realistic and brutal in Korean cinema. It won several awards, including Best Actor at the Blue Dragon Film Awards.


I Saw the Devil (2010)
Description: A dark and violent revenge thriller that explores themes of vengeance, morality, and the psychological toll of hunting a sadistic killer, featuring relentless action and a morally ambiguous protagonist.
Fact: The film was initially banned in several countries due to its extreme violence. It was later released with heavy edits in some regions.


The Berlin File (2013)
Description: A high-stakes espionage thriller with international intrigue, double-crosses, and explosive action sequences, following a North Korean agent caught in a web of betrayal.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Berlin, adding to its authentic and gritty atmosphere. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of spycraft.


The Divine Move (2014)
Description: A stylish and violent revenge film centered around the game of Go, featuring a protagonist who uses his strategic skills to exact vengeance on those who wronged him.
Fact: The film's unique premise of using Go as a metaphor for revenge set it apart from other action movies. It features elaborate and visually striking sequences.


No Tears for the Dead (2014)
Description: A gritty and emotional action drama about a hitman who begins to question his life choices after a botched job, leading to a violent confrontation with his employers.
Fact: The film's director is known for his stylized action sequences and complex characters. It was shot in multiple countries, including the United States and South Korea.


The Villainess (2017)
Description: A high-octane action film with a female lead who is a trained assassin, blending brutal fight sequences with a tragic backstory and themes of betrayal and redemption.
Fact: The movie features a famous first-person perspective action sequence that was praised for its innovative cinematography. It was inspired by classic revenge thrillers and martial arts films.


The Outlaws (2017)
Description: A crime thriller based on true events, focusing on a tough detective's battle against a ruthless gang, featuring intense action and a cat-and-mouse narrative.
Fact: The film was a massive box office success in South Korea and spawned a sequel. It is loosely based on the real-life Heuksapa Incident.


The Spy Gone North (2018)
Description: A tense and politically charged spy drama based on true events, focusing on a South Korean agent's infiltration of North Korea, blending suspense with emotional depth.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life story of a spy known as 'Black Venus.' It was critically acclaimed for its meticulous attention to detail and gripping narrative.


The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018)
Description: A sci-fi action thriller with a young female protagonist who discovers her extraordinary abilities, leading to a violent and unpredictable showdown with those who seek to control her.
Fact: The film's twist ending left audiences shocked and eager for a sequel. It combines elements of horror, action, and science fiction.
