About
Quick guide
Speler-server
Yadang: The Snitch
20257123 min
DramaActieKomedieThrillerMisdaad
Uitgebracht
16 apr 2025
Land
South Korea
Productie
Hive Media Corp
Navigating both the criminal underworld and law enforcement agencies, professional snitches called "yadang" provide covert information about the drug world to prosecutors and police. When a drug bust at a party attended by high-profile second-generation VIPs entangles those involved into a dangerous conspiracy, a seasoned yadang must do everything in his power not just to make it out on top, but alive.
About
Quick guide
Yadang: The Snitch – a crime thriller that follows a drug informant entangled in a high‑stakes conspiracy.
Yadang: The Snitch follows Lee Kang‑su, a seasoned drug informant who becomes caught in a dangerous conspiracy when a high‑profile drug bust brings him into conflict with both criminals and law‑enforcement. The film explores the blurred line between justice and personal ambition, showing how loyalty and corruption collide in the underworld of Seoul’s drug scene.
What to know
- Released in South Korea on April 16 2025 and in the U.S. on April 25 2025.
- Runtime is 122 minutes (2 h 2 min).
- Directed by Hwang Byeong‑gug and produced by Hive Media Corp.
- Lead actors: Kang Ha‑neul (Lee Kang‑su), Yoo Hae‑jin (Ku Kwan‑hee), Park Hae‑joon (Oh Sang‑jae).
- Genre: Crime, action, thriller with political intrigue.
- Original language Korean, English subtitles available.
- Rated M18 in Korea and NR Not Rated in the U.S.
- Available for streaming on Apple TV and Prime Video after a limited theatrical run.
Watch if
If you enjoy layered crime dramas that balance slick action with political intrigue, and appreciate nuanced performances from Korea’s leading actors, Yadang: The Snitch offers a tense, thought‑provoking journey through the underworld.
Skip if
If you prefer lighthearted comedies or family‑friendly fare, this hard‑billed thriller’s intense violence, mature themes and bleak tone may not be to your taste.
crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyintense actioninvestigation heavylanguage somelanguage strongpsychological elementssuspenseful
The Concept of Yadang
The term ‘yadang’ refers to an informant who works covertly between the drug underworld and law‑enforcement. In the film, Lee Kang‑su uses his insider knowledge to broker deals for prosecutors, while constantly walking the thin line between survival and betrayal in a high stakes environment.
Plot Overview
Set during a drug bust at a high‑profile party, the story follows Lee Kang‑su, a seasoned snitch whose past actions catch up when a powerful prosecutor’s ambitions collide with corrupt forces. Forced into a conspiracy, he must outwit both the criminals and the police while fighting to protect his life and honor. The plot also explores the blurred lines between justice and personal vendettas, as well as the costs of playing both sides.
Main Cast and Characters
Kang Ha‑neul portrays Lee Kang‑su, the resourceful informant. Yoo Hae‑jin plays prosecutor Ku Kwan‑hee, a ruthless ambition seeker. Park Hae‑joon is detective Oh Sang‑jae, a disillusioned officer. Their performances combine sharp wit with physical intensity, creating a tense dynamic that propels the story forward. Their chemistry fuels a relentless chase through corrupt networks, keeping viewers on edge until the final confrontation.
Director Hwang Byeong‑gug
Hwang Byeong‑gug, known for gritty dramas, brings a nuanced vision to Yadang: The Snitch. Drawing from real police reports, he blends sharp dialogue with kinetic action, creating a story that feels both intimate and cinematic. His previous work includes The Unjust, where he showcased a similar blend of moral complexity and visual flair.
Production Details
Produced by Hive Media Corp., the film was shot in Seoul’s urban landscape, capturing the city’s gritty nightlife and high‑end party scenes. The production employed a mix of handheld and long‑take camera work, emphasizing realism. The score, composed by a seasoned Korean composer, underscores the tense atmosphere without overwhelming the dialogue. This careful balance allows viewers to immerse fully together.
Release and Availability
The Korean release debuted on April 16 2025, quickly earning over 3 million admissions. In the U.S., the film opened limited on April 25 2025, and became available for streaming on Apple TV and Prime Video shortly after. The distribution strategy combines traditional theaters with digital platforms, making it accessible for international audiences eager to experience Korean crime cinema. The film’s release strategy also includes festival screenings and promotional events worldwide.
Tone and Themes
Yadang: The Snitch embraces a dark, gritty tone, reflecting the moral ambiguity of its protagonists. Themes of loyalty, corruption, and the cost of truth dominate the narrative. The film balances intense action with sharp dialogue, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps audiences on edge while prompting reflection on power dynamics within law enforcement and the underworld. It also examines how personal ambition can both drive justice and lead to downfall.
Comparisons to Other Thrillers
The film’s blend of crime and political intrigue echoes classics like The Departed and Sicario, while its Korean flavor aligns it with recent hits such as The Chaser and City of God. Its tight pacing and moral complexity also bring to mind The Usual Suspects, making it a standout for fans of smart, action‑driven storytelling in a compelling and relentless package.
Similar vibes
6 titels
The Killing
Police investigation focus similar to Yadang’s procedural elements.
Film
★8/10
City of God
Fast‑paced drug drama mirrors Yadang’s rapid pacing.
Film
★8/10
The Usual Suspects
Complex crime plot and twists resonate with Yadang’s narrative.
Film
★8/10
The Departed
Undercover informants and crime‑filled plot echo Yadang.
Film
★8/10
The Chaser
Korean crime thriller with gritty underworld setting comparable to Yadang.
Film
★8/10
The Irishman
Aging informants and crime history reflect Yadang’s character depth.
Film
★8/10
FAQ
46 Q&A
Who is Lee Kang-soo?
Lee Kang-soo is a former police officer who becomes a snitch to get revenge.
What does the cockroach symbolize for Prosecutor Koo?
The cockroach represents Prosecutor Koo's guilt and inner turmoil.
Who is Detective Oh Sang-jae?
Detective Oh Sang-jae is a police detective who works with Lee Kang-soo to uncover corruption.
How did Lee Kang-soo end up in jail?
Lee Kang-soo was framed and sent to jail.
What deal did Koo Gwan-hee offer Lee Kang-soo?
Prosecutor Koo Gwan-hee offered Lee Kang-soo a deal to become an informant.
What is a 'Yadang'?
A 'Yadang' is someone who works as a police informant or snitch.
What is the staged overdose attack?
The staged overdose attack is a plan to make someone appear dead to avoid capture.
What is the role of Uhm Soo-jin in the story?
Uhm Soo-jin is a former colleague of Lee Kang-soo who gets involved in his revenge plot.
What pact do Kang-soo, Sang-jae, and Soo-jin form?
Kang-soo, Sang-jae, and Soo-jin form a pact to get revenge on those who wronged them.
What is the relationship between Lee Kang-soo and Koo Gwan-hee?
Lee Kang-soo and Koo Gwan-hee have a strained relationship, with Koo being Kang-soo's former superior who betrays him.
Who is Yeom Tae-soo?
Yeom Tae-soo is a corrupt official involved in the case.
Why does Koo Gwan-hee betray Lee Kang-soo?
Koo Gwan-hee betrays Lee Kang-soo to protect himself and cover up his own crimes.
Who is Cho Hoon?
Cho Hoon is a character involved in political corruption.
What is the significance of the cockroach hallucination at the end?
The final cockroach hallucination shows that Prosecutor Koo is haunted by his actions and cannot escape his guilt.
How does Goo frame Sang-jae and Soo-jin?
Goo frames Sang-jae and Soo-jin by planting evidence to make them look guilty.
How did Uhm Soo-jin get involved with drugs?
Uhm Soo-jin became involved with drugs as a result of being coerced and framed.
How does Lee Kang-soo become a 'pro' snitch?
Lee Kang-soo becomes a skilled snitch through his experience and determination to get revenge.
What evidence does Lee Kang-soo get at the rave?
At the rave, Lee Kang-soo obtains evidence of illegal drug activities and corruption.
What is Lee Kang-soo's job as a 'Yadang'?
As a 'Yadang,' Lee Kang-soo's job is to gather information for the police, often by going undercover.
What is Cho Hoon's connection to a presidential candidate?
Cho Hoon is connected to a presidential candidate through a corrupt deal.
Who is Prosecutor Koo Gwan-hee?
Prosecutor Koo Gwan-hee is a corrupt prosecutor who abuses his power.
What happens at the drug rave at Laurel Hill Hotel?
The drug rave at Laurel Hill Hotel is a cover for illegal drug dealing and a place where key evidence is gathered.
How does Oh Sang-jae's investigation get disrupted?
Oh Sang-jae's investigation is disrupted by internal corruption and interference from Prosecutor Koo.
What are the revenge targets of Kang-soo, Sang-jae, and Soo-jin?
The revenge targets of Kang-soo, Sang-jae, and Soo-jin are the corrupt officials and individuals who wronged them.
What happens to Oh Sang-jae and Uhm Soo-jin after the betrayal?
After the betrayal, Oh Sang-jae and Uhm Soo-jin are framed and face severe consequences.
What language is spoken in 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The movie 'Yadang: The Snitch' is primarily in Korean.
Who are the main actors in 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The main actors in 'Yadang: The Snitch' include Kim Mu-yeol, Jin Goo, and Lee Kyung-young.
Does the movie have a gritty tone, or is it different?
Yes, the movie 'Yadang: The Snitch' has a gritty and dark tone, exploring serious crime and corruption.
How much did the movie 'Yadang: The Snitch' cost to make?
Information about the exact production budget for 'Yadang: The Snitch' is not readily available.
What is the meaning of the title 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The title 'Yadang' refers to a type of illegal gambling or often a shady deal, and 'The Snitch' indicates a person who betrays others, suggesting a story about betrayal in illegal activities.
What does the film say about trust in institutions?
The film suggests that trust in institutions like the police and prosecution can be misplaced due to corruption and self-interest.
What is the main theme of the movie 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The main theme of 'Yadang: The Snitch' revolves around betrayal, corruption within law enforcement and the criminal underworld, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
What was the release date of 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The movie 'Yadang: The Snitch' was released in South Korea on March 23, 2022.
Who directed 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The movie 'Yadang: The Snitch' was directed by Kim Bong-han.
What country is 'Yadang: The Snitch' from?
The movie 'Yadang: The Snitch' is from South Korea.
How much money did 'Yadang: The Snitch' make at the box office?
Specific box office earnings for 'Yadang: The Snitch' are not widely publicized.
What is the plot of 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
'Yadang: The Snitch' is about a detective who gets involved with a drug kingpin and a prosecutor, leading to a dangerous game of cat and mouse with betrayal and moral compromises.
What is the 'blue meth' mentioned in the film?
The 'blue meth' mentioned in the film refers to a specific type of illegal drug, likely methamphetamine, known for its distinctive color.
Did Lee Kang-soo and Koo Gwan-hee consider each other brothers?
The relationship between Lee Kang-soo and Koo Gwan-hee is complex and fraught with conflict, not one of brotherhood.
Who wrote 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The screenplay for 'Yadang: The Snitch' was written by Kim Bong-han.
How long is the movie 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The runtime of 'Yadang: The Snitch' is approximately 1 hour and 57 minutes.
What is the relationship between Oh Sang-jae and Uhm Soo-jin?
Oh Sang-jae is a detective and Uhm Soo-jin is a prosecutor who become entangled in a dangerous investigation involving drug trafficking.
What is the ending of 'Yadang: The Snitch'?
The ending of 'Yadang: The Snitch' involves a violent confrontation and the consequences of the characters' choices, with a sense of unresolved danger and moral ambiguity.
What causes the downfall of the partnership between Kang-soo and Goo?
The downfall of the partnership between Kang-soo and Goo is caused by greed, betrayal, and the high-stakes nature of their illegal dealings.
What is the 'triangular gap' mentioned in the film?
The 'triangular gap' in the film refers to the complex and often corrupt relationship between police, prosecutors, and informants, where power and information create a dangerous dynamic.
How does the movie portray the relationship between police, prosecutors, and informants?
The movie portrays the relationship between police, prosecutors, and informants as a murky and often exploitative one, where trust is fragile and everyone is looking out for their own interests.
