Exhuma (2024 Film)

Exhuma (Korean: 파묘; RR: Pamyo) is a 2024 South Korean supernatural thriller film written and directed by Jang Jae-Hyun. The film explores themes of ancestral trauma, shamanism, and traditional Feng Shui practices.

Exhuma promotional poster — Promotional poster for the film Exhuma.

Plot

The story follows a wealthy family based in Los Angeles that is plagued by a series of inexplicable supernatural occurrences. Seeking answers, they enlist the help of two renowned young shamans, Hwa-Rim (Kim Go-Eun) and Bong-Gil (Lee Do-Hyun). Upon investigation, Hwa-Rim determines that the disturbances are linked to the family's ancestors. To resolve the issue, she collaborates with a master Feng Shui expert, Sang-Deok (Choi Min-Sik), and an experienced undertaker, Young-Geun (Yu Hae-Jin). The team travels to a remote village in South Korea to locate and exhume the ancestral grave, uncovering dark secrets in the process.

Cast

Choi Min-Sik as Kim Sang-Deok
Kim Go-Eun as Lee Hwa-Rim
Yu Hae-Jin as Ko Young-Geun
Lee Do-Hyun as Yoon Bong-Gil
Kim Jae-Chul as Park Ji-Yong
Kim Sun-Young as Oh Kwang-Sim
Kim Ji-An as Park Ja-Hye

Production and Release

The film was directed and written by Jang Jae-Hyun and produced by Kim Young-Min. It was distributed by Showbox and released in South Korea on February 22, 2024. The film has a runtime of 134 minutes.

Awards

Exhuma received significant critical recognition, including multiple wins at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards and the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards.

Blue Dragon Film Awards (2024)

Best Director: Jang Jae-Hyun
Best Actress: Kim Go-Eun
Best Cinematography & Lighting
Best Art Design

Baeksang Arts Awards (2024)

Best Director: Jang Jae-Hyun
Best Actress: Kim Go-Eun
Best New Actor: Lee Do-Hyun
Art Award: Kim Byeong-In