Are you a fan of Korean dramas and movies? If so, you’ve probably noticed a recurring theme that’s been making waves in the Korean entertainment industry: gambling. From high-stakes poker games to life-or-death gambles, these stories are as thrilling as they are captivating.
Finding the right series to watch can also be considered a minor gamble, so to help you with that, we’ve compiled a list of top gambling-themed series and movies popular in South Korea.
While not all of them have to do with cards, you will enjoy the thrill of the high-stakes games that make you as excited as if you were playing real money casinos.
Tazza: The High Rollers (2006)
Tazza: The High Rollers is a must-watch Korean gambling movie. It tells the story of a man who becomes deeply involved in the underground gambling scene after losing everything in a game. The film brilliantly captures the high-stakes world of illegal gambling in South Korea, making it a thrilling watch.
Squid Game (2021)
Squid Game is a Netflix series that took the world by storm. While not a traditional gambling game, the series revolves around a deadly game where the stakes couldn’t be higher. The participants, all in dire financial situations, willingly risk their lives for a chance to win a massive cash prize. The series offers a unique take on the concept of gambling, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
War of Money (2007)
War of Money is a gripping series that explores the world of moneylenders and high-stakes gambling. The protagonist, who becomes a moneylender after being swindled out of his savings, navigates the dangerous world of loan sharks and gambling. The series provides a unique perspective on gambling in Korea, making it a fascinating watch.
All In (2003)
All In is a classic Korean drama that revolves around the world of professional real-money gambling. The series follows the life of a man who rises from poverty to become a high-stakes gambler, facing numerous challenges. The series is a thrilling exploration of the world of professional gambling in South Korea.
Liar Game (2014)
Liar Game is a psychological thriller that takes the concept of gambling and turns it on its head. The series revolves around a naive college student embroiled in a high-stakes game of deception and manipulation. The gamble here is not just about money, but trust and manipulation, making it a unique addition to the genre.
God of Gamblers (1989)
God of Gamblers is a Hong Kong action-comedy film that has gained popularity in South Korea. It tells the story of a talented gambler who loses his memory after a freak accident. As he navigates his way back to the top, the film explores the themes of luck, skill, and the high stakes of the gambling world.
Jackpot (2016)
Set in the Joseon era, Jackpot is a historical drama that combines politics and gambling. The plot revolves around two men involved in a high-stakes game of chance that could determine the next king of Joseon. The series masterfully blends historical intrigue with the thrill of gambling.
Midas (2011)
Midas is a drama series that takes the concept of gambling to the corporate world. It revolves around high finance, mergers, and acquisitions, where every decision is a high-stakes gamble. The series offers a unique perspective on the gamble of business decisions and the power of money.
The Divine Move (2014)
The Divine Move is a thrilling movie that combines the strategic game of Go with the world of underground gambling. After a Go player kills his brother, the protagonist seeks revenge, entering the dangerous world of illegal gambling. The film is a thrilling exploration of strategy, revenge, and the high stakes of underground gambling.
The Royal Gambler (2016)
The Royal Gambler is a historical drama about a prince who is forced into a deadly game of chance against a man who wants to become king. The series masterfully combines the thrill of gambling with the political intrigue of the Joseon era, making it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
Incarnation of Money (2013)
Incarnation of Money is a drama series about a prosecutor who loses his memory and becomes embroiled in a conspiracy. The series explores the concept of money and power as a form of gambling, where the stakes are life and death. It’s a thrilling exploration of corruption, memory loss, and the high stakes of power.
Each of these series and movies further explores the theme of gambling, offering a unique perspective on the concept of risk, reward, and the game’s high stakes. Whether it’s the traditional high-stakes card games, the psychological gamble of trust and manipulation, or the gamble of power and money in the corporate world, these dramas and movies offer diverse narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
So, if you’re a fan of Korean dramas and movies and you’re intrigued by the thrill and suspense of gambling, these series and movies are worth a watch. They provide entertainment and a unique insight into the social and legal implications of gambling in South Korea. So, roll the dice and immerse yourself in the captivating world of gambling-themed Korean dramas and films.
The Legality of Gambling in Korea
Now that we’ve updated your must-watch list, let’s address the elephant in the room: “Is gambling legal in South Korea?” The answer is both yes and no. While gambling in South Korea is heavily regulated, certain forms are legal, such as horse racing, boat racing, and lotteries. However, most other forms of gambling, especially online gambling in South Korea, are generally prohibited.
Despite these restrictions, the fascination with gambling persists, reflected in the country’s pop culture. This dichotomy between the law and the public’s interest creates a unique backdrop for Korean gambling movies and series, adding tension and intrigue.