19/16
Chronology
Rookie detective Park Sun Woo and Seo Do-Cheol, a veteran of the Violent Crimes Investigation Division team, chase after a serial killer who shakes up their world
Follows Beterang (2015).
Veteran is an action-comedy that pits a seasoned detective, Seo Do-cheol, against a young, arrogant chaebol heir, Jo Tae-oh, who's involved in various criminal activities
The film is filled with fast-paced action scenes, but what sets it apart is its humor and the clever way it handles social commentary about the corruption of the rich.
The hand-to-hand combat and chase scenes are energetic and keep the audience engaged
Hwang Jung-min's portrayal of the relentless detective is fantastic, bringing both intensity and humor to the role.
What makes Veteran especially enjoyable is the tension between Seo and Jo
While Seo represents justice and grit, Jo embodies the entitled, untouchable elite who believe they can get away with anything.
The action and the moral message combine to make it one of the standout Korean action films of the decade
The film subtly critiques the imbalance of power in society while still being a thrilling ride filled with great fight choreography.