Confidential Assignment
Confidential Assignment is a high-octane Korean action-comedy directed by Kim Sung Hoon, featuring an unlikely collaboration between a North Korean and South Korean detective. Hyun Bin stars as Im Chul Ryung, a determined North Korean special investigator who is sent to South Korea on a secret mission. His task is to capture his former superior, Cha Ki Sung (played by Kim Joo Hyuk), who has stolen counterfeit plates and fled to the South. Upon arriving, Chul Ryung is partnered with Kang Jin Tae, a quirky South Korean detective played by Yoo Hae Jin. Initially reluctant to work together, the two detectives form an uneasy alliance, with Chul Ryung focused on completing his mission, while Jin Tae is more interested in the reward for capturing Cha Ki Sung. Their contrasting personalities create comedic moments as they chase the dangerous criminal through the streets of Seoul. The film combines intense action sequences with lighthearted banter between the leads. Im Yoon Ah joins the cast as Park Min Young, Jin Tae’s sister-in-law, adding a layer of family drama and humor to the storyline. As the two detectives uncover deeper layers of corruption and conspiracy, they must put aside their differences and work together to prevent a national disaster. Confidential Assignment stands out for its blend of action and comedy, as well as the strong performances by Hyun Bin and Yoo Hae Jin. With thrilling chases, explosive confrontations, and heartwarming moments, it delivers a well-rounded, entertaining experience for fans of action-comedy films.
Details
🙂 Native Title: 공조 (Gongjo)
🌎 Also Known As: Cooperation, The Mutual Mission
🎭 Genres: Action, Comedy, Crime, Thriller
🏷 Tags: North Korea, South Korea, Detective Duo, Bromance, Counterfeit, Unlikely Partners
✍ Screenwriters: Yoon Hyun Ho, Hwang Jo Yoon
🎬 Directors: Kim Sung Hoon
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Release Date: January 18, 2017
📺 Original Network: N/A (Theatrical Release)
⏰ Duration: 125 minutes
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ (violence, language)
Best Scenes
- The intense rooftop chase between Im Chul Ryung (Hyun Bin) and Cha Ki Sung (Kim Joo Hyuk) is a standout, filled with high stakes and tension.
- The comedic bickering between Im Chul Ryung and Kang Jin Tae (Yoo Hae Jin) during an undercover operation showcases the perfect balance of action and humor.
- The thrilling final shootout in a warehouse brings both action and emotional depth as the duo faces their enemies head-on.
- A heartfelt moment where Chul Ryung reflects on his past loss, adding depth to his character amidst the action-packed scenes.
- The explosive car chase through the streets of Seoul, mixing fast-paced action with witty dialogue.
Filming Locations
- Many of the action scenes were shot in Seoul, utilizing urban landscapes and rooftops to enhance the intensity of the chase sequences.
- Several scenes, including the undercover operation, were filmed in Incheon, adding to the gritty, realistic backdrop of the film.
- The Han River was used for key sequences, adding scenic views and contrast to the high-octane action scenes.
- Some pivotal moments were shot in Busan, especially the dockyard scenes, showcasing the city’s industrial setting.
Visual Design and Costumes
- Hyun Bin‘s sharp, military-inspired costumes reflect his North Korean background and discipline, contrasting with Yoo Hae Jin‘s more casual, everyman attire, representing their differences.
- The film’s dark, gritty color palette enhances the tension of the action sequences, while warmer tones are used during family-oriented scenes, providing balance.
- The action choreography is fast-paced, with close-up shots to heighten the sense of urgency during chase scenes.
- Costumes also reflect the characters’ backgrounds, with Im Chul Ryung maintaining a tactical look, while Kang Jin Tae is more laid-back.
Themes and Messages
- The film explores the theme of unlikely partnerships, as two detectives from opposing sides of the Korean border are forced to work together for a common goal.
- Bromance and loyalty play key roles, with the relationship between Chul Ryung and Jin Tae growing from distrust to mutual respect and camaraderie.
- The film also delves into family dynamics, particularly through Jin Tae’s home life, showing a balance between action and personal moments.
- Trust is a significant theme, as the two detectives must learn to rely on each other despite their national and ideological differences.
Interesting Facts
- Confidential Assignment was Hyun Bin’s return to the action genre after a hiatus, with the actor performing many of his own stunts.
- The film became a major box-office hit in South Korea, grossing over USD $50 million.
- Im Yoon Ah, a member of the popular K-pop group Girls’ Generation, earned praise for her comedic performance as Kang Jin Tae’s sister-in-law.
- A sequel, Confidential Assignment 2: International, was announced due to the success of the original film, with many of the main cast returning.
- The movie’s blend of North and South Korean elements makes it a unique cross-border action-comedy, rare in South Korean cinema.
Awards
Here are the awards Confidential Assignment (2017) received:
53rd Baeksang Arts Awards (2017):
- Most Popular Actress – Im Yoon Ah – Won
- Best New Actress – Im Yoon Ah – Nominated
Fantasia International Film Festival (2017):
- Action! Award – Confidential Assignment – Won
1st The Seoul Awards (2017):
- Best Supporting Actor – Kim Joo Hyuk – Won
- Most Popular Actress – Im Yoon Ah – Won
Korean Film Shining Star Awards (2017):
- Newcomer Award: Best New Actress – Im Yoon Ah – Won
These accolades highlight the film’s strong performances, particularly Im Yoon Ah‘s comedic role, and its action-packed direction.
Real-Life Loves on Set
s of now, there have been no reports or confirmed information about any real-life romantic relationships developing between the cast members of Confidential Assignment (2017). While the on-screen chemistry between actors like Hyun Bin and Im Yoon Ah was well-received by fans, it appears that any off-screen romance rumors remain unsubstantiated. The actors have maintained a professional rapport during and after the film’s production.
