Posters of critically acclaimed films directed by Park Chan-wook and/or starring actor Song Kang-ho, both recognized at the 75th Cannes Film Festival. Among these, Forbes included “Oldboy,” “Parasite,” “Decision to Leave” and “Thirst” on its list of the top 30 Korean films. (Images courtesy of CJ CGV)

Forbes magazine recently released a list of the top 30 must-watch Korean films, showcasing the distinctive storytelling and cultural richness that have made Korean cinema a global phenomenon. Park Chan-wook’s 2003 thriller “Oldboy” claimed the coveted top spot, surpassing even Bong Joon-ho’s Oscar-winning “Parasite.” Winner of the Cannes Grand Prix in 2004, “Oldboy” earned particular praise for lead actor Choi Min-sik’s powerful performance; its iconic, action-packed hallway sequence; and its profound exploration of revenge, redemption and human suffering.

“Parasite” secured the second position, reflecting its groundbreaking success at the Academy Awards, where it won Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best International Feature Film. Forbes noted that “Parasite” drew inspiration from Kim Ki-young’s haunting thriller “The Housemaid” (1960), which ranked fourth on the list. This classic about the dark undercurrents of domestic life continues to influence modern Korean filmmakers.

Lee Chang-dong’s “Burning,” adapted from a Haruki Murakami short story, took third place. This 2018 psychological thriller, which was shortlisted for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, masterfully depicts class divisions and interpersonal mysteries. The fifth spot went to “Memories of Murder” (2003), a true-crime thriller by Bong Joon-ho that blends dark comedy with social commentary.

“Parasite” poster and scene depicting the economic hardships of unemployed patriarch Ki-taek (Song Kang-ho)’s family (Images courtesy of CJ ENM)

The list extends beyond contemporary works, also honoring films from the mid-20th century that form the foundation of modern Korean cinema. These classics, many of which can be found on the YouTube channel Korean Classic Film, explore enduring themes of family obligation, social hierarchy and personal sacrifice. Notable examples include Shin Sang-ok’s 1956 melodrama “Madame Freedom,” which explores the changing roles for men and women in urban Korean society at the time.

Park Chan-wook’s influence is particularly notable, with five of his films making it onto the list: “Oldboy” (1st), the erotic period drama “The Handmaiden” (6th), the noirish “Decision to Leave” (13th), the supernatural horror film “Thirst” (16th) and “Lady Vengeance” (27th), the final film in his vengeance trilogy, which also included “Oldboy.” Park’s distinctive visual style, exploration of the theme of revenge and narrative complexity have established him as a leading figure in contemporary film. Each of these acclaimed works demonstrates his versatility, creativity and remarkable ability to transcend genres.