The Fortress

Set during the Second Manchu invasion of Korea in 1636, this historical drama follows the harrowing plight of King Injo and his retainers as they seek refuge in the mountain fortress of Namhansanseong. As the Qing forces lay siege, the king and his advisors face moral and strategic dilemmas, torn between fighting for their sovereignty and negotiating peace. The film stars Lee Byung-hun and Kim Yoon-seok, delivering powerful performances that capture the tension and desperation of the era. Directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, known for his meticulous attention to historical detail, the movie offers a gripping portrayal of loyalty and sacrifice. For those interested, it can be viewed for free on Soap2day.