Yu Gwan-Sun (1959): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1959, Yu Gwan-Sun is a drama, war and history film directed by Yun Bong-chun, running about 102 minutes.

What it’s about. This film is about of the life of the young patriotic martyr Yu Gwan-sun, who fought for the liberation of her country during the Independence Movement in 1919. As the Independence Movement becomes more and more intense among Korean students, the Japanese authorities order schools closed temporarily. Yu Gwan-sun (Do Geum-bong) persuades her neighbors to join the national movement, and continues her aggressive struggle against Japanese rule. An independent campaign at Aunae, a market site, is successful with the passionate participation of many people. She is arrested by the Japanese police for leading the campaign and has to endure horrible tortures. But she never gives up her fight, encouraging her cell mates to participate in the movement. She is finally taken to an underground room by the Japanese police and murdered.

Who’s in it. Yu Gwan-Sun stars Do Kum-bong, Han Eun-jin, Lee Hae-Ryong and Ko Seol-bong, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 4.0/10, Yu Gwan-Sun has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Yu Gwan-Sun page.

If you liked it. Fans of Yu Gwan-Sun tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.