With Netflix’s Uprising around the corner, it’s time we revisit some of the most beloved and best historical Korean movies that have managed to capture our hearts and immerse us in Korea’s rich past. Starring Kang Dong-won, Park Jeong-min, Kim Shin-rok, Jin Seon-kyu, Jung Sung-il, and Cha Seung-won, Uprising is set in the Joseon era, telling the gripping tale of two childhood friends whose fate turns them into bitter adversaries — Cheon Yeong, a slave with incredible combat skills, and Jong Ryeo, a noble from the country’s most powerful military family.
If you can’t wait to dive into the world of Uprising, let’s delve into some historical masterpieces that not only showcase the grandeur and conflicts of Korea’s past but also connect with our emotions in the most profound way. So, put on your hanbok and grab some popcorn as we explore the best historical Korean movies that can give Uprising a worthy prelude!
Best Historical Korean Movies
The Last Princess
Imagine being the last princess of your nation during its darkest hour. That’s exactly the reality faced by Princess Deokhye in The Last Princess. Set against the backdrop of Japanese colonial rule, Son Ye-jin shines in her portrayal of Princess Deokhye, who fights not just for her life but also for the hope of her homeland. Her desperate attempts to return to Korea and the sacrifices she endures hit right in the feels, offering a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit during times of despair.
The emotional depth of the character and the moving portrayal of Korea’s struggle make The Last Princess a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. Ye-jin’s performance as a symbol of hope and dignity, even in the face of overwhelming oppression, elevates this movie into an unforgettable historical saga.
Masquerade
What happens when a commoner takes over the throne and learns the truth about royal life? That’s exactly what Masquerade gives us, as Lee Byung-hun takes on the role of both King Gwang-hae and Ha-sun, a jester who becomes a stand-in for the king. This movie combines humour, suspense, and plenty of heartfelt moments as Ha-sun learns the burdens and responsibilities of kingship, all while trying to keep his head — literally.
The film’s seamless blend of comedy and gripping political drama sets it apart from other period pieces. Byung-hun’s layered dual performance, the chemistry among the cast, and the movie’s commentary on leadership make Masquerade an absolute must-watch for fans of Korean historical dramas. Trust me, this one will have you laughing one moment and holding your breath the next.
The Age of Shadows
If you want a heart-pounding thriller set against the Japanese colonial period, The Age of Shadows is your go-to. Directed by Kim Jee-woon and starring Song Kang-ho and Gong Yoo, this film follows a group of Korean freedom fighters determined to resist Japanese occupation at all costs. The espionage, the stakes, the betrayal — it all keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Kang-ho’s portrayal of a conflicted Korean officer torn between loyalty to his Japanese superiors and his countrymen’s resistance is nothing short of phenomenal. Add to that Gong Yoo’s charisma, and you have a dynamic duo leading a movie that’s filled with tension, passion, and the haunting theme of loyalty vs. freedom.
Assassination
Want more action with a hefty dose of patriotism? Enter Assassination. Set during the 1930s, this movie features a group of Korean freedom fighters planning to assassinate key Japanese figures in Seoul. The all-star cast — including Jun Ji-hyun, Lee Jung-jae, and Ha Jung-woo — brings the story to life with riveting action sequences, double-crosses, and fierce devotion to their mission.
Ji-hyun as Ahn Ok-yun, a sharpshooter with a tragic past, is everything we love about action heroines — fearless, skilled, and fiercely loyal to her cause. Assassination gives us all the thrills, tears, and gasps of a great period-action drama. And it makes us wonder if freedom is truly worth any cost, regardless of the sacrifices involved.
The Fortress
If you’re looking for a more introspective and somber portrayal of Korea’s historical struggles, then The Fortress is for you. This film, starring Lee Byung-hun and Kim Yoon-seok, is set during the Qing invasion of Korea in 1636 and follows King Injo and his advisors as they take refuge in Namhansanseong Fortress. The internal conflicts, bitter cold, and desperation portrayed on screen reflect not only a nation under siege but also the moral and political turmoil faced by its leaders.
The movie is less about physical action and more about philosophical dilemmas, human endurance, and leadership. Byung-hun delivers a masterclass in acting as he embodies the torment of a leader struggling between negotiation and resistance. This slow-burn drama is an essential watch for those who appreciate rich storytelling and introspective historical narratives.
The Throne
Prepare your tissues, because The Throne is going to rip your heart out and leave you with all the feels. This tragic family drama, starring Song Kang-ho as King Yeongjo and Yoo Ah-in as Crown Prince Sado, takes us back to the Joseon dynasty to depict the heartbreaking real-life story of a king who ordered his son to die by being locked in a rice chest.
This isn’t just a film about royal politics; it’s about a father and a son whose relationship was tragically torn apart by duty, expectations, and miscommunication. Yoo Ah-in captures Prince Sado’s anguish with raw emotion, while Song Kang-ho portrays a father whose love is overshadowed by his duties as king. The emotional depth and the powerful portrayal of this tragic event make The Throne one of the most memorable historical films in Korean cinema.
The Face Reader
Let’s end on a slightly mystical note with The Face Reader, a film that takes a fascinating look at the art of physiognomy — the practice of assessing a person’s character based on their facial features. Set during King Munjong’s reign, the film follows Nae-kyung, played by Song Kang-ho, as he finds himself caught up in political turmoil while trying to use his unique skill to make a living.
This movie isn’t just about politics; it’s also about destiny, ambition, and the age-old struggle of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Song Kang-ho’s portrayal of Nae-kyung, a man whose talents bring both fortune and trouble, is a joy to watch. With its mix of intrigue, historical detail, and fascinating characters, The Face Reader is the perfect way to round out our list.
As we gear up for the release of Uprising, these historical Korean movies are sure to get you in the mood for tales of courage, tragedy, and resilience. From personal dramas to grand tales of national struggle, these films provide an incredible window into Korea’s rich and tumultuous history. So, what are you waiting for? Get comfortable, grab a hot drink, and let these incredible movies take you on a journey through time — right in the comfort of your living room.