Reading the ‘new world’: neoliberalism in the South Korean gangster film

Abstract

this article analyses some recent trends of theme, form and characterisation in South Korean gangster cinema. Using Beat (Biteu, Kim Sung-su, 1997), Bloody Tie (Sasaeng gyeoldan, Choi Ho, 2006) and New World (Sinsegye, Park Hoon-jung, 2013), these trends are considered within the context of neoliberal economics and ideology, both in their global manifestations and as particular to South Korea. The potential for a more neoliberal gangster type in South Korean cinema is considered: one who eschews the tropes of the traditional East Asian ‘gangster hero’ (such as moral righteousness and interpersonal care) and embraces a more competitive, individualistic worldview. By way of contrast between the three films studied, this article demonstrates how the generic diversification of the gangster protagonist in recent cinematic output corresponds with, and in many ways refers to, a wider ideological shift towards individualism and self-sufficiency in South Korea in the era of neoliberal globalisation.

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