Welcome to Dongmakgol (2005 Film)
Welcome to Dongmakgol (Korean: 웰컴 투 동막골) is a 2005 South Korean film directed by Park Kwang-Hyun. Set during the Korean War, the film blends elements of drama and comedy to explore themes of conflict and reconciliation. It was released in South Korea on August 4, 2005, and features a screenplay written by Jang Jin, Kim Joong, and Park Kwang-Hyun.
Plot
The story takes place in Dongmakgol, a remote mountain village that remains isolated from the ongoing Korean War. The village becomes a sanctuary for soldiers from opposing sides: a U.S. fighter pilot who crashes in the mountains, three retreating North Korean soldiers, and two South Korean soldiers who have lost their way. Although initial tensions arise between the North and South Korean troops, the influence of the villagers leads them to a temporary truce. As the soldiers assist the local farmers, they learn of a planned U.S. air strike targeting the area due to suspected enemy presence. The soldiers ultimately choose to cooperate to divert the attack and protect the village.
Cast
The film features an ensemble cast, including:
- Jung Jae-Young as Chief Comrade Lee Su-Hwa
- Shin Ha-Kyun as 2nd Lt. Pyo Hyun-Chul
- Kang Hye-Jung as Yeo-Il
- Steve Taschler as Smith
- Lim Ha-Ryong as Jang Young-Hee
- Seo Jae-Kyung as Army Medic Moon
- Ryu Deok-Hwan as Seo Taek-Ki
- Jung Jae-Jin as the Mayor
- Jo Deok-Hyeon as Teacher Kim
- Hong Ye-In as Dong-Ku's mother
Reception
The film was a commercial success in South Korea. During its opening weekend from August 5 to August 7, 2005, it reached number one at the box office, selling 689,330 tickets across 387 screens. By the end of its run, the film sold a total of 8,008,622 tickets, making it the second highest-grossing film in South Korea for 2005.