South Korean cinema is known for its diverse genres and unique storytelling, and comedy is no exception. From heartwarming family tales to laugh-out-loud adventures, the range of South Korean comedy films is both vast and vibrant. If you’re looking to add some Korean humor to your movie nights, here’s a comprehensive list of the top 25 South Korean comedy movies, arranged by genre, each with a brief synopsis. Dive in to discover your next favorite comedy!
Quick Takeaways
- Varied Genres: The list includes a mix of romantic comedies, situational humor, and quirky adventures.
- Diverse Themes: From family dynamics to outrageous escapades, there’s something for everyone.
- Cultural Insight: These films provide a glimpse into South Korean culture and humor.
Romantic Comedies
- Pasongsong gyerantak (2005)
Synopsis: Dae-kyu’s life is upended when his estranged son shows up, leading to an unexpected journey across Korea as part of the boy’s wish.
Rating: 5.7
Runtime: 2h - Eoggaeneomeoeui yeoni (2007)
Synopsis: Jung Wan, a 32-year-old photographer, explores the complexities of modern romance and marriage amidst a backdrop of provocative humor.
Rating: 5.6
Runtime: 1h 40m - Nalnari jongbujeon (2008)
Synopsis: Spoiled college girl Yeon-soo attempts to win over her future in-laws while discovering that her fiancé’s family is involved in a mob.
Rating: 5.3
Runtime: 1h 50m - Mr. Perfect (2014)
Synopsis: A former golf pro, now teaching kids, finds redemption and a new purpose in life, earning the affection of a small community.
Rating: 6.7
Runtime: 1h 49m
Family and Feel-Good Films
- Boomerang Family (2013)
Synopsis: Three siblings with issues must navigate living together with their elderly mother, revealing their deep-seated family dynamics.
Rating: 6.5
Runtime: 1h 52m - Lifting King Kong (2009)
Synopsis: A former weight-lifting champion trains a ragtag group of high school girls for a national competition.
Rating: 6.9
Runtime: 2h - The King of Jokgu (2013)
Synopsis: A foot volleyball enthusiast teams up with friends to revive his school’s court and win over a love interest.
Rating: 6.5
Runtime: 1h 40m - Sunday League (2020)
Synopsis: Once a rising football star, Jun-il struggles to connect with young players as he faces the risk of losing his job.
Rating: 7.9
Runtime: 1h 23m - Geuk jang pan wil ben jyeo seu: su sang han kaem ping dae so dong (2022)
Synopsis: WillBengers go on a camping trip, encountering a series of comedic misadventures involving a fox den and family drama.
Rating: N/A
Runtime: 1h 19m
Quirky and Outrageous Comedy
- Ice Bar (2006)
Synopsis: A young man, discovering his long-lost father is alive, sells ice blocks to fund a trip to Seoul to meet him.
Rating: 6.6
Runtime: 1h 35m - Femme Fatal (2007)
Synopsis: A glamorous movie star’s party turns deadly as she invites men to choose her lover, leading to a series of murders.
Rating: 6.6
Runtime: 1h 34m - Self Referential Traverse: Zeitgeist and Engagement (2011)
Synopsis: An avant-garde film exploring self-reference and engagement in a conceptual comedy format.
Rating: 9.5
Runtime: 1h 13m - 1 beon-ga-eui gi-jeok (2007)
Synopsis: A developer’s plans to demolish a quirky neighborhood hit a snag as he meets colorful locals and reevaluates his project.
Rating: 6.5
Runtime: 1h 53m - Love Copyright (2015)
Synopsis: An erotic writer deals with his ex-lover demanding royalties and reigniting past flames in a humorous twist.
Rating: 6.5
Runtime: 1h 51m - Kidarida michyeo (2008)
Synopsis: Four couples face comedic challenges when military service disrupts their relationships and lives.
Rating: 5.6
Runtime: 1h 48m - The March of Fools (1975)
Synopsis: Set during South Korea’s military dictatorship, this film follows a college student’s romantic escapades amidst societal struggles.
Rating: 6.4
Runtime: 1h 42m - Tukabseu 3 (1998)
Synopsis: Two unconventional cops take on the underworld in this action-comedy that blends humor with gritty crime-solving.
Rating: 4.4
Runtime: 1h 38m - Mr. Condom (1997)
Synopsis: A couple’s quest to have a baby turns into a comedic adventure involving fertility clinics and unexpected challenges.
Rating: 6.1
Runtime: 1h 38m - Born to Sing (2013)
Synopsis: Set in Gimhae, this film follows contestants hoping to appear on a popular singing show, exploring their personal motivations.
Rating: 7.3
Runtime: 1h 52m - Ra-dee-o-seu-ta (2006)
Synopsis: A washed-up rock star finds new purpose and a change of heart while DJing at a small radio station in the suburbs.
Rating: 7.0
Runtime: 1h 52m - Anemone (2022)
Synopsis: Yong-ja’s quest for a lottery ticket leads to a series of comic misadventures in this lighthearted family film.
Rating: 6.0
Runtime: 1h 14m - Intruders (2013)
Synopsis: A screenwriter’s quiet retreat is disrupted by uninvited guests, leading to a suspenseful and comedic standoff.
Rating: 6.5
Runtime: 1h 39m - Virgin Theory: 7 Steps to Get on the Top (2014)
Synopsis: A 33-year-old virgin explores love and lust through steamy encounters with an artist, offering a humorous take on dating.
Rating: 6.4
Runtime: 1h 37m - Love Exposure (2008)
Synopsis: This provocative film dives into the roots of female psychology, blending humor with a candid look at modern relationships.
Rating: 5.6
Runtime: 1h 40m - Tukabseu 3 (1998)
Synopsis: A pair of tough, unconventional cops takes on the underworld in a comedic crime caper.
Rating: 4.4
Runtime: 1h 38m
These films offer a fantastic introduction to South Korean comedy, showcasing a variety of styles from heartfelt stories to quirky adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic comedy or an outrageous escapade, this list has something for everyone. Enjoy your movie marathon!