Kang Dong Won, a celebrated South Korean actor, began his acting journey in 2003 and has since risen to become one of the top actors in the industry. Known for his versatility, he has successfully starred in various film genres, including drama, horror, action, and crime. Here are five crime films featuring Kang Dong Won that you should definitely add to your watch list.
Voice of a Murderer (2007)
Image Credit: CJ Entertainment/Voice of a Murderer
Voice of a Murderer is based on a true story and follows the harrowing experience of a famous news anchor, Han Kyung Bae (Sol Kyung Gu), whose son is kidnapped. The kidnapper, portrayed by Kang Dong Won, continually outsmarts the police and terrorizes the family with relentless phone calls. The only clue the police and the parents have is the kidnapper’s eerie, emotionless voice recorded on tape. This film is a gripping tale of suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they follow the desperate attempts to rescue the kidnapped child.
This movie, which runs for 122 minutes, showcases Kang Dong Won’s ability to play a chilling antagonist, making it a standout in his filmography. The tension and anxiety experienced by the parents are palpable, making this film a must-watch for crime thriller enthusiasts.
A Violent Prosecutor (2016)
Image Credit: Showbox/A Violent Prosecutor
In A Violent Prosecutor, Kang Dong Won plays Han Chi Won, a fraud convict who becomes the key to a prosecutor’s revenge plan. The story revolves around Byun Jae Wook (Hwang Jung Min), a prosecutor known for his harsh treatment of criminals, who is wrongfully accused of murder and sentenced to 15 years in prison. While in prison, Jae Wook discovers that he was framed and enlists Chi Won’s help to clear his name and seek revenge.
This film, with a runtime of 126 minutes, combines action and legal drama with a thrilling plot. Kang Dong Won’s portrayal of the cunning and resourceful Chi Won adds depth to the movie, making it an engaging watch.
Master (2016)
Image Credit: CJ Entertainment/Master
Master is an action-packed crime film where Kang Dong Won plays Kim Jae Myung, the head of a police detective team. Jae Myung is on a mission to expose the fraudulent activities of One Network, a successful multilevel marketing company led by Jin Hyun Pil (Lee Byung Hun). The film follows Jae Myung’s intricate plans to use Jin’s subordinate, Park Jang Gun (Kim Woo Bin), to bring down the company.
This film, which has a runtime of 143 minutes, showcases Kang Dong Won’s role as the determined and intelligent detective, illustrating his versatility and ability to lead a high-stakes action film. The movie’s suspenseful plot and complex characters make it a standout in the crime genre.
Golden Slumber (2018)
Image Credit: CJ Entertainment/Golden Slumber
Golden Slumber tells the story of Kim Gun Woo (Kang Dong Won), a kind-hearted courier who becomes entangled in a conspiracy. After being framed for the assassination of a prominent politician, Gun Woo must evade government agents and clear his name. The film is a thrilling ride as Gun Woo uses his wits and courage to survive and uncover the truth.
With a runtime of 108 minutes, Kang Dong Won’s portrayal of the innocent yet resourceful Gun Woo adds a human touch to this action thriller, making it both exciting and emotionally resonant.
The Plot (2024)
Image Credit: Next Entertainment World/The Plot
In his latest film, The Plot, Kang Dong Won takes on the role of Young Il, a hitman who specializes in making murders look like accidents. Young Il is meticulous and emotionally controlled, but he finds himself in uncharted territory when a mysterious incident shakes his confidence and makes him suspicious of those around him.
This film, with a runtime of 120 minutes, highlights Kang Dong Won’s ability to bring complexity to his characters, blending action with psychological suspense. The Plot promises to be a gripping addition to his impressive body of work.
Kang Dong Won’s performances in these crime films showcase his range and talent as an actor. Each movie offers a unique blend of action, suspense, and drama, making them essential viewing for fans of the genre. His ability to embody both protagonists and antagonists with equal finesse is a testament to his skill and dedication to his craft.
