I, the Executioner

Veteran is an action-comedy that pits a seasoned detective, Seo Do-cheol, against a young, arrogant chaebol heir, Jo Tae-oh, who's involved in various criminal activities. The film is filled with fast-paced action scenes, but what sets it apart is its humor and the clever way it handles social commentary about the corruption of the rich. Hwang Jung-min's portrayal of the relentless detective is fantastic, bringing both intensity and humor to the role. The hand-to-hand combat and chase scenes are energetic and keep the audience engaged. What makes Veteran especially enjoyable is the tension between Seo and Jo. While Seo represents justice and grit, Jo embodies the entitled, untouchable elite who believe they can get away with anything. The film subtly critiques the imbalance of power in society while still being a thrilling ride filled with great fight choreography. The action and the moral message combine to make it one of the standout Korean action films of the decade.