I, the Executioner

I, the Executioner

I, the Executioner—also known as Veteran 2—is a high-stakes Korean crime action thriller that reunites audiences with legendary detective Seo Do Cheol, played by powerhouse actor Hwang Jung Min. Returning to the Violent Crimes Investigation Unit, Do Cheol is more relentless than ever as he takes on a case that pushes his moral limits and challenges his belief in justice. The film introduces a chilling new antagonist: Park Seon U, portrayed by the ever-versatile Jung Hae In, who plays a cunning and emotionally detached serial killer. As bodies start appearing with cryptic clues and symbolic executions, the case quickly spirals into a race against time. Do Cheol must decipher Seon U’s motivations while grappling with a system that often protects the powerful. With explosive action scenes, gritty interrogation rooms, and mind games that rival any international crime thriller, I, the Executioner explores the blurred lines between justice and revenge. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Oh Dal Soo, Jang Yoon Ju, and Oh Dae Hwan, reprising their roles as key members of the investigation team, adding depth and dark humor to the narrative. Directed with sharp precision and social critique, this sequel to the blockbuster Veteran (2015) delivers on all fronts—adrenaline, emotion, and character complexity. I, the Executioner cements itself as a must-watch for fans of Korean thrillers, serial killer mysteries, and films with strong leads. Brace yourself for a cinematic pursuit where justice bleeds in every frame.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 베테랑2
🌎 Also Known As: Veteran 2
🎭 Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller
🏷 Tags: Detective, Serial Killer, Police Investigation, Crime Thriller, Sequel
Screenwriters: Ryoo Seung-wan, Lee Won-jae
🎬 Directors: Ryoo Seung-wan
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Release Date: September 13, 2024
📺 Original Network: CJ ENM
Duration: 118 minutes
🔞 Content Rating: R (Restricted)

  • Stairwell Showdown: A high-octane fight sequence unfolds on a steep stairwell, showcasing intense choreography reminiscent of John Wick: Chapter 4.

  • Rain-Soaked Pursuit: Detective Seo Do-cheol chases the serial killer through a neon-lit alley during a torrential downpour, blending visual flair with suspense.

  • Interrogation Tension: A gripping interrogation scene where rookie detective Park Sun-woo confronts a key suspect, highlighting psychological intensity.

  • Public Broadcast Threat: The killer releases a chilling video online, revealing the next victim and escalating public fear.

  • Final Confrontation: A climactic rooftop battle between Seo Do-cheol and the antagonist, delivering emotional and physical stakes.​​

  • Daejeon City Hall: Key scenes were shot at this location, providing an authentic urban backdrop.

  • Seoul’s Backstreets: The city’s narrow alleys and bustling streets add realism to chase sequences.

  • Industrial Warehouses: Abandoned warehouses serve as eerie settings for the killer’s hideouts.

  • Han River Bridges: Iconic bridges feature in pivotal scenes, symbolizing transitions and confrontations.

  • Subway Stations: Underground stations are utilized for suspenseful encounters and escapes.

  • Gritty Aesthetic: The film employs a muted color palette to reflect the dark themes of justice and morality.

  • Realistic Wardrobe: Costume designers Kim Kyeong-mi and Jang Mi-suk crafted attire that mirrors the characters’ professions and personalities.

  • Symbolic Lighting: Lighting contrasts are used to differentiate between the law enforcers and the antagonist, enhancing narrative depth.

  • Urban Decay Settings: Set designs incorporate elements of urban decay to underscore societal neglect and corruption.

  • Dynamic Camera Work: Cinematographer Choi Young-hwan utilizes handheld shots to immerse viewers in the action.

  • Justice vs. Vigilantism: The film explores the fine line between lawful justice and personal vengeance.

  • Moral Ambiguity: Characters grapple with ethical dilemmas, questioning the righteousness of their actions.

  • Systemic Corruption: A critique of institutional failures that allow crime to flourish.

  • Mentorship and Growth: The dynamic between veteran and rookie detectives highlights themes of learning and legacy.

  • Public Perception: The role of media in shaping public opinion and its impact on justice proceedings is examined.

  • Cannes Premiere: The film premiered in the Midnight Screenings section at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2024. 

  • Box Office Success: Within six days of its South Korean release, it garnered over 4 million admissions.

  • Award Recognition: Jung Hae-in won Best Supporting Actor at the 2024 Blue Dragon Film Awards for his role in the film.

  • Sequel Development: Director Ryoo Seung-wan confirmed plans for a sequel shortly after the original Veteran film’s release in 2015.

  • Stunt Coordination: The film’s stunt team received accolades for their work, winning a Technical Award at the Blue Dragon Film Awards. ​​

Awards Won

  • Best Supporting Actor: Jung Hae-in at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

  • Technical Award (Stunt Coordination): Yoo Sang-seop at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.


Nominations

  • Best Film: Nominated at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

  • Best Director: Ryoo Seung-wan nominated at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

  • Best Cinematography and Lighting: Choi Young-hwan and Lee Jae-hyuk nominated at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

  • Best Editing: Bae Yeon-tae nominated at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

  • Best Music: Chang Kiha nominated at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

  • Best Feature-Length Film: Nominated for the Òrbita Award at the 2024 Sitges – Catalonian International Film Festival.

There is no confirmed real-life romance that developed among the cast members of I, the Executioner (2024), also known as Veteran 2. While the film stars major Korean actors such as Hwang Jung Min and Jung Hae In, and their on-screen dynamic has been praised for its tension and depth, their relationship remained strictly professional during and after filming.

The movie itself is a gritty crime thriller, focused on a cat-and-mouse chase between a veteran detective and a serial killer. It does not include a romantic subplot, and there have been no public reports or verified rumors of any off-screen romance involving the cast during production.

As of now, the success of I, the Executioner is rooted in its intense performances, direction, and storytelling—not in any behind-the-scenes romance. If you’d like, I can check for relationship details of specific actors involved.

Trailer

OST

Gallery

Cast

Ahn Bo Hyun
Ahn Bo Hyun
Heo Nam Jun
Heo Nam Jun
Hwang Jung Min
Hwang Jung Min
Hyun Bong Sik
Hyun Bong Sik
Jung Hae In
Jung Hae In
Kim Won Hae
Kim Won Hae

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