Korean films are highly entertaining and can also aid in learning the language, particularly with their dialogue-rich scripts.
You can find many of these films online without needing a Netflix account, purchasing from Amazon Prime, buying DVDs, or visiting questionable websites.
In this post, we’ll look at some excellent options for watching hundreds of Korean movies for free and legally online.
Top 9 Sites to Watch Korean Films In 2024
Dingo K-Drama
No, these videos may not win any Sundance awards, but Dingo K-Drama offers a variety of skits, short movies, and other free content.
You can use it to learn about and stay updated with Korean pop culture, helping you understand references in feature films and recognize popular entertainers.
All videos come with English subtitles.
This content is similar to what you’ll find on FluentU, so if you enjoy Dingo’s videos, consider trying our free trial.
These short films provide entertaining stories in just a few minutes and often teach practical everyday language.
AsianCrush
This site could be your go-to for Korean films online. While some movies require a premium subscription, many are available to watch for free.
Simply filter by region and genre, then click on a movie to check its availability. If it’s available, you can enjoy the movie with occasional ads.
AsianCrush offers a broad selection of Korean films, including romantic comedies, thrillers, and documentaries.
For horror or unique films, check out Midnight Pulp, which is owned by the same distributor as AsianCrush. There is some overlap between the two sites, but you might find a film on one that isn’t available on the other.
I could keep emphasizing the importance of exploring different film genres. However, I know some of you are here for your favorite, Park Chan-wook, and you’re in the right place.
Just be aware that not all of his films are available for free.
AsianCrush films come with English subtitles. There is a “CC” button on the player, but the subtitles are often embedded in the film and cannot be turned off.
Netflix
Netflix needs no introduction. It’s the go-to platform for passing the time, and now it can also help you improve your Korean skills.
Netflix offers a wide range of Korean movies. If you enjoy zombie films, just search for “Korean movies.” You can also explore specific categories like “Romantic Korean Movies.”
All Korean movies on Netflix come with English subtitles, and some even include Korean subtitles, allowing you to read along with the dialogue.
To change the language settings on a computer, start the movie and hover over the speech bubble in the lower right corner to adjust the subtitles. On a Roku or other streaming device, go to “Audio and subtitles” on the program’s info screen.
After watching one Korean movie, Netflix will recommend more. You might plan to watch just one and end up binge-watching for hours, all while improving your Korean skills.
FilmDoo
FilmDoo allows you to rent movies online and has a great selection of free short films. Just scroll down in the Korean category and click “Watch for Free” to view the complete list.
One standout is “Bikini Words,” a six-minute documentary that introduces words and phrases from South Korean factories in the ’70s and ’80s while highlighting the tough working conditions of that era.
The film is surprisingly lighthearted, featuring former workers posing expressively with various costumes and objects.
Movies on FilmDoo typically have subtitles that can be set to English or other languages.
Viki
Honestly, Viki is better known for dramas than movies. While it might not be the top choice for streaming Korean films, it’s still worth checking out if you’re looking for free options.
Viki offers both premium and non-premium subscriptions. Most of its free movies come with English subtitles that can be toggled on and off, along with many subtitle options in other languages. The site does have ads, which is typical for most free streaming platforms.
Each scene typically features a conversation between two people and a bit more, providing excellent listening content.
It’s the kind of content that might make you want to eavesdrop while enjoying your coffee. As the comments indicate, this film features characters that Viki users love to hate. It’s all about the drama!
Korean Classic Film
This is the official YouTube channel of the Korean Film Archive, featuring nearly 200 films, mainly from the latter half of the 20th century. Be sure to check out the “Videos” section and enjoy!
One of the films tells the story of a widowed woman who decides to remarry. Although some sound and the intended ending are missing due to the film’s age, it still presents a unique experience.
If you’re interested in suspense or horror, Park Chul-soo’s 1995 movie “삼공일 삼공이” (“301, 302”) is available here.
However, be aware that it addresses challenging topics like abuse and eating disorders, which may not be suitable for everyone. But don’t worry; there’s likely something on the Korean Classic Film channel that you’ll enjoy.
Note: Be cautious with the synopses on this channel, as they can sometimes contain spoilers.
Most films here have English captions that you can turn on and off using the “CC” button.
OnDemandKorea
OnDemandKorea is a streaming service dedicated to Korean content, including movies.
With a premium membership, you can access many films, but there are also many free options. To see which movies are free, look for the “ODK PLUS” logo in the upper left corner of the image to know if a premium membership is needed.
For subtitling preferences, check the “All Subtitles” bar near the top of the screen. Use the drop-down menu to filter movies by your preferred subtitles.
TUBI
If you search for “Korea” or “Korean” on Tubi, you will find some Korean films, but also English documentaries about Korea and perhaps an English film starring Korean-Canadian actress Sandra Oh.
Tubi tracks your browsing habits well. If you search for Korean films for a while and then go to the “Foreign Language Films” category, you should find what you want.
Most Films/Shows on Tubi have English Subtitles that cannot be turned off.
A cool choice is “여배우들” (“The Actresses”), a mockumentary-style film about a fashion shoot featuring six real-life Korean actresses.
How to Make the Most of Free Korean Films?
The one downside to watching movies for free online is that you usually won’t find the latest blockbusters. So, you’ll need to have diverse tastes.
You’ll find many older classic films available for free online. Fortunately, watching Korean movies from various eras has its benefits.
By watching films from different years, you can get a better understanding of Korean history and culture, which can enhance your language studies and enjoyment of Korean cinema.
Koreanfilm.org is a great resource to explore different periods of Korean film. You can browse by year or decade, whether you’re looking for recent films or older ones.
