Korea is a nation that loves movies, with the average Korean going to the theater about four times a year, which is the highest rate in the world. This passion for cinema has cultivated a deep love and appreciation for films.
In this post, I’ll introduce how Koreans live and experience their cities through the lens of movies. Each post will highlight different cities, starting with Busan. While Seoul may be the capital of Korea, Busan is often called the “city of movies” because so many iconic films have been shot there. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous ones.
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1. Friend (2001)
When you think of Busan dialect, the movie <Friend> is one of the first to come to mind. It’s famous for unforgettable lines like “What does your father do?”, “You go to Hawaii,” and “Stop it, he’s had enough.” The use of the Busan dialect was so heavy that the DVD version included standard Korean subtitles, which is pretty amusing! Interestingly, the lead actors, Jang Dong-gun and Yoo Oh-seong, aren’t from Busan, so they had to take lessons from the director, who is a native, to perfect the accent.
<Friend> showcases many iconic spots in Busan. For example, the characters attend Busan High School, and several key scenes were shot at Jagalchi Market and the famous Yeongdo Bridge.
2. Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time (2012)
Next up is <Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time>, a film that gave us famous lines like “It’s alive!” and “I know the chief, man!” Starring Choi Min-sik and Ha Jung-woo, this film also introduced audiences to actors like Jo Jin-woong, Ma Dong-seok, and Kwak Do-won. It’s one of the defining films of the Korean noir genre, capturing the gritty atmosphere of Busan in the 1980s.
The film was shot in various locations around Yeongdo, Jungang-dong, and Dong-gu. With the full cooperation of the Busan Film Commission, the movie was filmed in the city for 62 days, effectively portraying the historical atmosphere of Busan’s old town.
3. Wish (2009)
<Wish>, also known as <Baram>, is a film based on the true story of actor Jung Woo’s high school years. The movie was shot at Busan Commercial High School, where Jung Woo himself graduated. It’s noted for its unique soundtrack that incorporates traditional Korean music, which adds to the nostalgic feel of the 1990s setting.
The film resonates particularly with male audiences, as it vividly portrays the rivalry, cliques, and camaraderie of high school life. It’s a heartfelt story that explores the innocent times of youth and the unrecognized love of parents. Despite not being an official box-office hit, many people have watched it multiple times, giving it the reputation of being a “secret” million-viewer movie.
4. Ode to My Father (2014)
While the previous films may have been unofficial box-office successes, <Ode to My Father> was an undeniable hit. Directed by Yoon Je-kyoon, it became his second film to surpass 10 million admissions in Korea. With over 14 million viewers, it’s one of the highest-grossing Korean films of all time, also breaking $100 million in international box-office sales.
This movie portrays the lives of Korean fathers during the difficult times of the 1950s. It’s a tear-jerking tribute to the sacrifices made by the older generation. The film’s title comes from Gukje Market, a famous traditional market in Busan, which became a popular tourist spot after the movie’s success. The “Kkotbun’s store” in the movie is now a café, welcoming tourists from all over.
5. The Attorney (2013)
<The Attorney> is based on the life of former South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun during his time as a human rights lawyer. The movie revolves around the Burim Case, a real-life legal battle in the 1980s, and is set in Busan, where Roh worked as an attorney.
This film not only tells an inspiring story of justice but also sheds light on the sociopolitical climate of Korea during that time, making it an important piece of Korean cinema.
Bonus: Black Panther (2018)
For a surprising international hit, we can’t forget <Black Panther>, part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Though it only features Busan for about 10 minutes, it’s arguably the most globally recognized film to showcase the city.
The movie was filmed in several locations including Gwangalli Beach, Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Jagalchi Market, and Sajik-ro. The action scenes, especially the car chase, were a major highlight. Though locals noticed some geographical inaccuracies in the chase sequence, it was exciting to see Busan take the global stage.
Conclusion
Busan is not just a vibrant port city but also a central location in Korean cinema. From crime thrillers to heartwarming dramas, these films offer a glimpse into the unique culture, history, and everyday life of Busan. Through these movies, you can explore the city’s rich heritage and experience its charm, even before stepping foot in Korea!
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