A South Korean filmmaker known for his intense and suspenseful storytelling, he gained international recognition with his debut feature, "The Chaser" (2008), a gripping thriller that showcased his skill in blending crime and psychological tension. His follow-up, "The Yellow Sea" (2010), continued in the same vein, cementing his reputation for dark, gritty narratives. In 2016, he directed "The Wailing," a critically acclaimed horror film that further established his prowess in creating atmospheric and haunting cinema.