Get Ready to See a More Serious and Darker Side of Crime in “I, the Executioner,” the No. 1 Film in Korea

After the smash hit Veteran redefined Korean detective action back in 2015, director Ryoo Seung-wan returns this year with I, the Executioner, the long-awaited sequel. This time, audiences are in for an even grittier and more intense cinematic experience as veteran detective Seo Do-cheol (once again portrayed by the dynamic Hwang Jung-min) and his team face off against a merciless serial killer who has thrown the nation into chaos.

Currently the #1 movie in Korea, I, the Executioner has captivated audiences, surpassing a staggering four million admissions within just six days of its September 13 release. Its gripping storyline and high-stakes action are drawing fans of both the crime-thriller genre and its beloved prequel.

Director Ryoo Seung-wan, the mastermind behind Veteran, shares his deep connection with the character of Seo Do-cheol, noting, “My affection for the character Seo Do-cheol has grown over time, and I always wanted to create a continuation of his story.” This sequel marks a significant return to the detective’s world, and Ryoo ensures that the same intensity and energy fans loved in Veteran are carried into the new film.

The film’s lead, Hwang Jung-min, echoes the director’s enthusiasm for the project. The acclaimed actor, fresh off his Best Actor win at this year’s Baeksang Arts Awards for 12.12: The Day, admits he’s been longing to return to the role of Seo Do-cheol. “I have sincerely wanted a sequel since we filmed Veteran,” Hwang shares. “Even though it’s been nine years, I hope that audiences feel that Seo Do-chul hasn’t changed. I wanted to maintain the energy from the first film as much as possible.”

One of the film’s standout elements is the introduction of rookie detective Park Sun-woo, played by the ever-charismatic Jung Hae-in. His character, inspired by Seo Do-cheol’s relentless pursuit of justice, adds fresh energy to the investigative team. Jung shares, “In a way, the film contains a lot of realistic stories. I think it’s a movie that allows us to think about various things,” underscoring the movie’s relevance to contemporary issues.

I, the Executioner doesn’t just thrill with its pulse-pounding action sequences. It also delves into timely themes such as the rise of fake news, dopamine-inducing video content, and the overwhelming amount of information we face daily. Director Ryoo expertly examines how information is filtered and manipulated by algorithms, creating a reflection of the modern-day battle between truth and deception. This commentary adds an extra layer of depth to the film, making it more than just a crime drama—it’s a social critique.

As Ryoo explains, “Through this film, we will see a more serious and darker side of crime.” The film’s art director, Han Ah-reum, expands on this idea, saying, “I, the Executioner depicts the duality and harm of the media. Director Ryoo Seung-wan addresses the social issues of our time through his signature strength that is action.”

With its timely social commentary, breathtaking action sequences, and a stellar cast, I, the Executioner is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and Korean cinema. Distributed by CJ ENM and released in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, the movie will hit local cinemas on September 25.