The Spy Gone North

The Spy Gone North (Korean: 공작; RR: Gongjak) is a 2018 South Korean espionage film directed by Yoon Jong-bin. The film is based on the true story of Park Chae-seo, a former South Korean military officer who operated under the code name "Black Venus" while infiltrating North Korean nuclear facilities during the 1990s.

Plot

Set in 1993, the narrative follows Park Suk-young (played by Hwang Jung-min), a former military officer recruited by the South Korean National Intelligence Service (NIS). Tasked with gathering intelligence on North Korea's nuclear weapons program, he assumes the identity of a businessman to infiltrate the country's elite circles. Operating under the code name "Black Venus," he eventually gains the trust of high-ranking North Korean official Ri Myung-un (Lee Sung-min). As he navigates the dangerous political landscape, he discovers clandestine agreements between high-ranking officials from both North and South Korea, leading to a moral crisis.

Production

The film was directed by Yoon Jong-bin, who co-wrote the screenplay with Kwon Sung-whee. Principal photography commenced on January 24, 2017, and concluded on July 25, 2017. The production features a notable ensemble cast, including Hwang Jung-min, Lee Sung-min, Cho Jin-woong, and Ju Ji-hoon.

Release and Reception

The Spy Gone North held its world premiere at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival, where it was screened in the "Midnight Screenings" section. The film was officially released in South Korea on August 8, 2018.