May 18 2007
"The day a nation's conscience died."
Director Kim Ji-hoon's gripping historical drama *May 18* (2007) plunges viewers into the harrowing true events of the Gwangju Uprising, where an ordinary city's peaceful existence shatters under military occupation.
Director: Kim Ji-hoon
Cast
Kim Sang-kyung
Kang Min-woo
Ahn Sung-ki
Park Heung-soo
Lee Yo-won
Park Shin-ae
Lee Joon-gi
Kang Jin-woo
Park Cheol-min
In-bong
Park Won-sang
Yong-dae
Song Jae-ho
Priest Kim
Na Moon-hee
Naju-daek
Kwon Tae-won
Brigadier general Choi
Uhm Hyo-seop
Captain Kim
Frequently Asked Questions
What is May 18 (2007) about?
This historical drama chronicles the 1980 Gwangju Uprising, where civilians rose against military oppression after soldiers accused them of communist ties. The film captures the transformation of ordinary citizens into determined rebels fighting for justice and survival.
Who directed May 18?
The film was directed by Kim Ji-hoon, known for his work in South Korean historical dramas and emotionally charged storytelling.
Who stars in May 18?
The cast features Kim Sang-kyung, Ahn Sung-ki, Lee Yo-won, Lee Joon-gi, and Park Cheol-min in pivotal roles.
Is May 18 (2007) worth watching?
If you appreciate powerful historical dramas with emotional depth and real-world stakes, *May 18* is a compelling watch. The film balances intense action with poignant character moments, making it both gripping and thought-provoking.
How long is May 18?
The runtime for *May 18* is 118 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
May 18 (2007): The True Story of Courage During Korea's Darkest Days — Full Movie Info
Director Kim Ji-hoon's gripping historical drama *May 18* (2007) plunges viewers into the harrowing true events of the Gwangju Uprising, where an ordinary city's peaceful existence shatters under military occupation. The film follows residents—students, workers, and families—as they confront brutal oppression when soldiers label them communist conspirators and unleash violence in the streets. What begins as a peaceful protest against injustice spirals into a desperate fight for survival, as the citizens band together to defend their homes and dignity against an unrelenting regime. The atmosphere is tense and emotionally raw, with stark contrasts between the beauty of everyday life and the brutality of state-sanctioned terror.
The story unfolds with a mix of quiet human drama and explosive action, as the oppressed transform into unlikely heroes. Kim Sang-kyung, Ahn Sung-ki, and Lee Yo-won deliver standout performances, grounding the film's heavy themes in deeply personal struggles. With its unflinching portrayal of resistance and sacrifice, *May 18* isn't just a historical recount—it's a powerful meditation on courage, solidarity, and the cost of standing up for what's right.
