Once Upon a Time in Seoul Poster

Once Upon a Time in Seoul 2008

★ 5.84 votes98 min📅 2008-11-06

Set against the bleak backdrop of 1953 Korea, just after the Korean War, *Once Upon a Time in Seoul* (2008) follows two teenagers, Tae-ho and Jong-du, navigating a brutal orphanage where hunger and cruelty are daily realities.

Director: Bae Hyeong-jun

Cast

Lee Wan
Lee Wan
Jong-du
Song Chang-eui
Song Chang-eui
Tae-ho
Greena Park
Soon-nam
Lee Ki-young
Lee Ki-young
Do-cheol
An Kil-kang
An Kil-kang
Myeong-su
Park Young-seo
Park Young-seo
Deok-bae
Lee Geon-moon
Lee Geon-moon
Yong Goo
Seo Chong-ju
Seo Chong-ju
Man in market #2

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Once Upon a Time in Seoul* (2008) about?

This Korean drama set in 1953 follows two teenage orphans, Tae-ho and Jong-du, as they navigate a brutal camp after the Korean War. Struggling to survive, they turn to theft and risky schemes to build a future, testing the limits of their friendship and morality.

Who directed *Once Upon a Time in Seoul*?

The film was directed by Bae Hyeong-jun, known for his immersive storytelling and focus on historical and social themes.

Who stars in *Once Upon a Time in Seoul*?

The film features Lee Wan, Song Chang-eui, Greena Park, Lee Ki-young, and An Kil-kang in pivotal roles.

Is *Once Upon a Time in Seoul* (2008) worth watching?

While it lacks an IMDb rating, this drama stands out for its gritty realism and emotional weight. Fans of post-war narratives and character-driven stories will find its themes compelling and its atmosphere gripping.

How long is *Once Upon a Time in Seoul*?

The film runs for 98 minutes.

Once Upon a Time in Seoul (2008): Post-War Survival Drama — Full Movie Info

Set against the bleak backdrop of 1953 Korea, just after the Korean War, *Once Upon a Time in Seoul* (2008) follows two teenagers, Tae-ho and Jong-du, navigating a brutal orphanage where hunger and cruelty are daily realities. Directed by Bae Hyeong-jun, this gripping drama dives into their fight for survival, blending raw desperation with unyielding hope. Tae-ho, the clever strategist, and Jong-du, the hardened fighter, form an unlikely duo, plotting risky heists of US Army supplies to escape their oppressive existence. As their scheme grows, they rally others to their cause, but the line between ambition and survival blurs in this haunting tale of resilience and moral compromise.

With its unflinching portrayal of post-war struggles, *Once Upon a Time in Seoul* captures the harsh realities of a forgotten generation. The film's visceral atmosphere and emotional depth are amplified by strong performances, immersing audiences in a world where trust is a luxury and every decision carries life-altering consequences.