Screenplay by Bong Joon-ho &  Shim Sung-bo Directed by Bong Joon-ho

A Belated Encounter with One of Bong Joon Ho’s Masterpieces

Rating: ★★★★★

I might be a bit late to the party, as my son Leo would eagerly remind me! But better late than never, right? Memories of Murder is a 2003 masterpiece, and somehow it took me more than 20 years to finally watch it. On that note, I’m so late that the real-life culprit the story is based on has already been found.

I’ve been diving headfirst into South Korea’s rich cinematic universe, exploring its great directors and actors. Skipping this cornerstone of Bong Joon-ho’s filmography would have felt almost foolish. Now, having seen it, I can confidently say it’s not just a classic—it’s a revelation. Bong blends an engaging procedural with a darkly humorous portrayal of the everyday absurdities under military rule, crafting a haunting journey that begins as black-comic satire and descends into the profound and soul-shattering.

In this groundbreaking second feature, the director defies genre conventions, resulting in thrillingly subversive storytelling. Inspired by the true story of serial killings that gripped a rural community in the 1980s, Memories of Murder follows Song Kang-ho—an icon who needs no introduction—playing a provincial officer. He reluctantly partners with Kim Sang-kyung’s seasoned Seoul detective to investigate the crimes. What begins as a procedural transforms into a years-long odyssey of failure and frustration, dragging both men to the brink of existential despair.

The film is a masterclass in storytelling. It’s unafraid to leave questions unanswered, its refusal to offer narrative closure mirroring the unresolved anguish of its characters and the era it portrays. Combined with its breathtaking cinematography and harrowing performances, the result is a film that lingers long after the credits roll—a haunting reflection on humanity’s darkest corners.

Memories of Murder is more than a film; it’s a visceral experience, a stark reminder of Bong Joon-ho’s genius in creating art that transcends boundaries and eras.

Image courtesy of CJ Entertainment