The upcoming Korean film Humint is already creating strong buzz ahead of its theatrical release, positioning itself as one of the most anticipated spy thrillers of 2026. Directed by renowned filmmaker Ryoo Seung-wan, the movie is scheduled to hit cinemas on February 11, 2026, aligning with the Lunar New Year holiday season, a prime period for major box-office releases in South Korea.
Known for his gripping action storytelling and politically charged narratives, Ryoo once again explores the high-stakes world of espionage, following in the footsteps of his acclaimed works such as The Berlin File and Escape from Mogadishu.
Humint, short for “human intelligence,” centers on covert intelligence operations involving both South and North Korean agents. Set against an international backdrop near Vladivostok, the story dives into the dangerous mission to rescue a missing informant, triggering a chain of tense encounters, shifting alliances, and moral dilemmas.
The film emphasizes human-driven espionage over technological surveillance, focusing on trust, betrayal, and survival within secret intelligence networks.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast led by Jo In-sung, who plays a highly skilled South Korean intelligence agent tasked with navigating the mission’s growing risks. Park Jung-min stars as a key North Korean security figure whose motives remain ambiguous, adding layers of tension to the narrative.
Park Hae-joon appears as a powerful North Korean diplomat stationed overseas, while Shin Se-kyung portrays a North Korean restaurant worker whose involvement unexpectedly places her at the center of the intelligence conflict. The characters’ intersecting paths suggest a story driven as much by emotional stakes as by action.
First-look posters and promotional images highlight the film’s intense atmosphere, with icy visuals and guarded expressions reflecting the film’s themes of secrecy and confrontation. The overall tone suggests a grounded yet suspenseful spy drama, blending political tension with personal struggle. With its large-scale production, international setting, and emotionally complex characters, Humint is shaping up to be a major theatrical event.
As the Lunar New Year release date approaches, expectations continue to rise. Combining Ryoo Seung-wan’s proven direction, a powerhouse cast, and a story rooted in human intelligence and geopolitical conflict, Humint is poised to captivate audiences looking for a smart, gripping, and action-packed Korean thriller in 2026.
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