Korean Cinema: Unveiling the Dark Side of Youth – Bullying in Film
Bullying, a pervasive issue in societies worldwide, has found a powerful voice in Korean cinema. Korean filmmakers, known for their unflinching portrayals of social issues, have consistently explored the multifaceted nature of bullying, shedding light on its causes, consequences, and the psychological impact on victims and perpetrators alike. Through compelling narratives and realistic portrayals, these films serve as a mirror reflecting the darker aspects of youth culture and the urgent need for societal change.
The Landscape of Bullying in Korean Society
Before delving into specific films, it is important to understand the context of bullying in Korean society. Academic pressure, hierarchical school systems, and a strong emphasis on conformity can contribute to a climate where bullying thrives. Korean films often depict these elements, providing a nuanced understanding of the factors that perpetuate this harmful behavior.
A Glimpse into the World of "Better Days"
While not strictly a Korean film, "Better Days" (2019), directed by Derek Tsang, offers a poignant exploration of bullying within a high school setting. This Chinese drama, immensely popular and a box office success, revolves around Chen Nian, a 12th-grade student, who becomes the target of vicious bullying after the suicide of her classmate, Hu Xiaodie.
The Descent into Darkness
The film meticulously portrays the escalation of bullying tactics employed by Wei Lai, the "queen bee," and her friends. Initially, Chen Nian experiences verbal harassment and social isolation. However, the bullying soon turns physical, with the perpetrators attacking her and spreading malicious rumors about her family.
Seeking Refuge and Finding Love
Desperate for protection, Chen Nian turns to Liu Beishan, a teenage thug, also known as "Xiao Bei." Their relationship evolves as Xiao Bei dedicates himself to safeguarding Chen Nian from her tormentors, allowing her to focus on her college entrance exams.
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A Brutal Attack and a Descent into Tragedy
The film takes a dark turn when Xiao Bei is temporarily detained, leaving Chen Nian vulnerable to a brutal attack by her bullies. They cut her hair, beat her, strip her, and film the entire ordeal. This harrowing scene underscores the extreme cruelty and dehumanization that victims of bullying can endure.
The Unraveling of Truth and the Weight of Guilt
The narrative further complicates when Wei Lai's body is discovered after a landslide. Chen Nian becomes the primary suspect, leading to a series of interrogations and revelations. A flashback reveals that Wei Lai's death was accidental, stemming from a confrontation with Chen Nian.
Redemption and Hope Amidst the Darkness
In the end, both Chen Nian and Xiao Bei confess to their involvement in the crime, demonstrating their willingness to protect each other. Years later, Chen Nian becomes a teacher, working to prevent bullying in schools. The film concludes with a message of hope, highlighting the importance of empathy and intervention.
The Cast and Their Characters
- Zhou Dongyu as Chen Nian: The resilient protagonist who endures relentless bullying.
- Jackson Yee as Liu Beishan (Xiao Bei): The street thug who becomes Chen Nian's protector and love interest.
- Zhou Ye as Wei Lai: The ruthless leader of the bullies.
Critical Acclaim and Societal Impact
"Better Days" garnered critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of bullying and its exploration of the psychological impact on victims. The film's success also sparked discussions about the need for stricter anti-bullying policies in China. The film grossed more than US$80 million on its opening weekend in China and a total of US$230.1 million overall.
Other Notable Korean Films Addressing Bullying
While "Better Days" provides a compelling example, numerous other Korean films delve into the complexities of bullying. These films offer diverse perspectives on the issue, exploring different forms of bullying, the motivations of perpetrators, and the long-term consequences for all involved.
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"Silent Witness" (정적)
Set in a fictional city named Doma somewhere in Southeast Asia, the film kicks off with Tong (Wang Sheng Di), a mute student from Jing Hua Girls’ High School, glued to the wall by a bunch of bullies. Later, her mother Li Han (Janine Chang Ning), who also works there as a cleaner, finds her and cuts her down. Other students who are witnesses and Li keep quiet and never report the incident. Afterall, Angie, the leader of the bullies, is the headmaster’s daughter. That night, without Angie, three of the bullies meet in a remote abandoned house to chill out. However, someone in a raincoat turns up and hammers them to death. The camera then cuts to Li Han, also in a raincoat, harvesting her kumquats on her roof garden. In the distance, someone is also filming Li and Tong while they pack the fruits into jars. As the girls fail to show up at school, local detective Dai (Francis Ng) and his assistants start to investigate the case.
"Hail to Hell"
Lim Oh-jeong takes the oft-repeated subject of bullying and puts a fresh spin to it, writing and executing a narrative that is lively and with frequent moments of dry humor. The girls’ journey is unpredictable and never static. Through their story, Lim talks about the nature of forgiveness and redemption, how they are connected and interchanging. This is an interesting element that works best once Chae-rin’s arc also comes into play.
"Young Adult Matters"
High schooler Se-jin seems to be a kind of sociopath, since her reactions to what is happening in her life are minimal if any and her overall actions equally perplexing. Se-jin lives with her younger sister and frequently spends her time slashing her arms and uploading the deed on Instagram feeds, something that has caused her to be intensely bullied in school. The one who bullies her, however, is Eun-jeong, a girl who also happens to be her lesbian lover who tortures her in school and then searches for her during the night to apologize and make up. Furthermore, Se-jin retains an erotic relationship with the principal’s teacher son, Sang-seop, an affair that eventually leaves her pregnant. A freak accident of her bully/lover and the discovery of her pregnancy and subsequent harsh punishment of her lover causes her to leave her house in search for an abortion, in a series of events that still seem to leave her completely unfazed.
"The Glory"
The Glory Korean Drama - 2022, 8 episodes 9.0
The Glory Part 2 Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes 9.0
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"Weak Hero Class"
Weak Hero Class 1 Korean Drama - 2022, 8 episodes 9.5
Weak Hero Class 2 Korean Drama - 2025, 8 episodes 7.0
"Class of Lies"
Class of Lies Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes 9.5
"Revenge of Others"
Revenge of Others Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes 9.0
"Brave Citizen"
Brave Citizen Korean Movie - 2023 8.5
"The Dude in Me"
The Dude in Me Korean Movie - 2019 8.0
"High School Return of a Gangster"
High School Return of a Gangster Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes 8.5
"Juvenile Justice"
Juvenile Justice Korean Drama - 2022, 10 episodes 9.0
"Extracurricular"
Extracurricular Korean Drama - 2020, 10 episodes 8.5
"My Name"
My Name Korean Drama - 2021, 8 episodes 9.0
"Study Group"
Study Group Korean Drama - 2025, 10 episodes 9.5
"A Normal Family"
Hur Jin-ho adds some touches to enhance the Korean relatability to a script that is universal enough to risk appearing detached by its local contest. A touch of Christianity and a strong sense of family values are introduced. The righteous doctor is the one that is more observing of the traditional Korean family; his mum lives with them and his wife takes good care of her, while the successful lawyer seems more inclined to different values in life. Moreover, the kids are framed in a typical Korean scenario of cram school and bullying. However, the whole trick of portraying a normal family slowly revealing its abnormality is a bit tainted by the rich upper-middle-class setting, making it not a “normal family” in the first place.
The Impact and Significance of These Films
Korean films about bullying serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness and promoting dialogue about this critical issue. By showcasing the devastating consequences of bullying, these films can foster empathy, encourage intervention, and inspire change. They also provide a platform for victims to share their stories and find solace in knowing they are not alone.
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