Bounty Hunters (2016) is a high-energy action comedy that takes viewers on an international chase across Asia. Directed by Shin Terra, this Chinese–South Korean–Hong Kong co-production casts Lee Min-ho in the leading role as a preeminent martial-arts expert. It’s a playful, globe-trotting flick that blends martial arts, humor, and a dash of espionage for an entertaining ride.
Plot Summary
Lee San (Lee Min-ho) and his partner Ayo (Wallace Chung) are former Interpol agents turned voucher-chasing bounty hunters. After being framed in a hotel bombing in Incheon, South Korea, they become fugitives themselves. Joined by a quirky trio—a determined heiress named Kat, a tech-savvy hacker called Swan, and the muscle Bao Bao—they must clear their names by tracking down the real culprits of a series of bombings targeting an international hotel chain.
Highlights
- Lee Min-ho takes the lead in a fun, action-packed role, trading his usual romantic image for martial arts flair and comedic timing.
- Ensemble chemistry—the dynamic between Lee San, Ayo, and their eccentric allies adds humor and charm.
- Colorful international locales—filmed across South Korea, China, Hong Kong, and Thailand—bring visual energy and variety.
What Could Be Better
- Critics found the plot somewhat implausible and the film lacking in depth: “This amateurishly conceived action adventure has little going for it other than the rising star of Korean heartthrob Lee Min-ho.”
- Audience reactions are mixed, with some enjoying the action and visuals, while others found it shallow or overly chaotic.
Verdict
Bounty Hunters is spirited and stylish—a popcorn spectacle that lets Lee Min-ho showcase a different, more action-oriented side of himself. If you’re looking for lighthearted international escapism with punchy fight scenes, it’s a fun watch. But if you’re yearning for narrative weight or nuanced character growth, the film may feel superficial.