The Fortress (2017) is a South Korean historical drama directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, based on Kim Hoon’s novel Namhansanseong. Set during the Qing invasion of Joseon in 1636, the film portrays the harrowing 47-day siege of the mountain fortress Namhansanseong, where King Injo and his court seek refuge.
In December 1636, the Qing dynasty launches a massive invasion of the Joseon Kingdom. King Injo (Park Hae-il), along with his court and military, retreats to the fortified city of Namhansanseong, perched atop a remote mountain. Cut off from supplies and reinforcements, they endure a brutal winter siege.
Within the fortress, two opposing strategies emerge: Choi Myung-kil (Lee Byung-hun), a pragmatic official, advocates for negotiation to preserve lives and the kingdom’s sovereignty. In contrast, Kim Sang-hun (Kim Yoon-seok), a principled scholar, insists on resisting the invaders to uphold national honor and independence. As resources dwindle and morale deteriorates, King Injo faces a profound dilemma—whether to surrender or continue a potentially futile resistance.
- IMDB Rating - 6.8/10
- Director - Hwang Dong-hyuk
- Writers - Hwang Dong-hyuk, Hoon Kim
- Stars - Lee Byung-hun, Kim Yoon-seok, Park Hae-il
