Prison World Cup (2001 Film)

Prison World Cup (Korean: 교도소 월드컵; RR: Gyodoso Woldeukeop) is a 2001 South Korean comedy film written and directed by Bang Sung-Woong. The film explores the premise of a soccer tournament organized for prison inmates, centered on a team known as the 'Hope Team.'

Promotional poster for the film Prison World Cup.

Plot

The narrative is set against the backdrop of a proposal by a United Nations human rights committee to host a soccer tournament for prisoners, promoting themes of liberty and equality. In South Korea, prison officials face the decision of whether to allow their inmates to participate. The 'Hope Team' is formed, consisting of inmates with extensive criminal records. Motivated by the incentives of reduced sentences and temporary leave, the team members attempt to navigate the tournament despite internal conflicts, external corruption, and the escape of their leader.

Production and Release

The film was released in South Korea on May 19, 2001. It has a runtime of 104 minutes and is presented in the Korean language.

Cast

Jung Jin-Young as Bang
Cho Jae-Hyun as Question
Hwang In-Sung as Superintendent
Jang Du-Yi as Parole officer
Kim Il-Woo as Fussy
Cheol-su Kim as Sparky
Ki-won Kang as Chicken
Yeong-tak Song as Religious man
Cheol-woo Jeon as Chimney
Lee Kan-Hee
Park In-Hwan
Kim Jong-Min