After HI-FIVE was released on May 30th, the popular movie surpassed 1.2 million viewers. The comedy action film illustrates scenarios where organ transplant recipients gain surprising superpowers. It’s now a new standard for ‘Korean-style heroes’ because these characters unite to defeat supervillains. There have not been many Korean superhero films. However, a unique lineage prevailed, which has paved the way for HI-FIVE. Today, let’s meet the other noteworthy works that deserve the title of Korean superheroes.
Jeon Woo-chi: The Taoist Wizard (2009)
The origins of Korean heroes began with the animated works of the 1970s and 1980s. Jeon Woo-chi: The Taoist Wizard started during the 2000s. Jeon Woo-chi: The Taoist Wizard tells the story of a wizard named Jeon Woochi (played by Kang Dong Won) who causes trouble and time-travels to the present day to stop the calamity. A close look at the movie reveals that it mirrors the superhero genre. The charm of this film blends historical and modern elements and can be defined as ‘Korean-style.’
Haunters (2010)
This film illustrates a scenario where a clairvoyant (Kang Dong Won) can control the minds of everyone he encounters, except a man named Gyunam (Go Soo). He is immune to the clairvoyant powers. The two men clash in a battle to thwart each other. Gyunam actually possesses extraordinary strength and is close to being a superhuman. The showdown between a god and a man transforms from a simple confrontation into the true framework of a superhero film. Haunters surpasses the thriller genre.
The Uncanny Counter (2020-2023)
This film focuses on a group of superheroes realizing their powers for the very first time. In this Korean drama, new member Soon Woo (played by Jo Byung Kyu) joins a veteran squad already active in a world that is foreign. The Uncanny Counter follows the Counters, who are individually gifted with unique superpowers. They hunt down evil spirits that are destroying the world. This sets the stage for a gripping superhero tale where supernatural elements and the dynamics of teamwork happily coexist.
The four main characters, who are known as the Counters, run a noodle shop called Sister’s Noodles. They answer the call of duty when evil spirits appear. The series shows the classic portrayal of superheroes concealing their true identities while fighting evil. The storyline unfolds around a string of rumors and the Counters’ relationships, which could be considered a Korean adaptation of the superhero genre.
Moving (2023)
Moving should not be restricted to the category of Korean-style hero. The series places a spotlight on individuals and the modern history of South Korea.
Beginning with high school students Kim Bong Seok (Lee Jung Ha), Jang Hee Soo (Go Yoon Jung), and Lee Kang Hoon (Kim Do Hoon), the story incorporates their parents’ generation. The parents are Jang Joo Won (Ryu Seung Ryong), Lee Mi Hyun (Han Hyo Joo), Kim Doo Sik (Jo In Sung), and Lee Jae Man (Kim Sung Kyu). These characters perfectly illustrate their generation’s viewpoint in Korea, which is an important component of the series Moving.
The original webtoon creator, Kang Full, was involved in the Moving script creation, and the Korean drama benefited from it. This story was able to branch out from the original webtoon while still feeling connected. The project captivated viewers. Confirmation of Season 2 solidifies the show’s status as a true representative of Korean superhero content.
>> Park Jin Young Opens Up About Playing Cult Leader in ‘HI-FIVE’ and How His Parents Reacted
Localized for English Readers by Kristy Moody
Localized for English Readers by Kristy Moody: I’m a longtime editor and writer who has a passion for traveling. Dedicated ZAPZEE contributor since 2024.
