The sociopathic thriller The City of Evil, also known by its English title The Devil You Know, has been making waves since its nationwide release on June 20, 2025. Directed by and starring Hyun Woo-sung, the film delves deep into the dark recesses of human nature, exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and manipulation through a tense and gripping narrative.
At the heart of the story are three complex characters: Yu-jeong, played by Han Chae-young, who believes in the goodness of people; Kang-soo, portrayed by Jang Ui-soo, a skeptic who trusts no one; and Seon-hee, brought to life by Hyun Woo-sung himself, a manipulative figure who exploits others for his own gain. Their intertwined fates lead to a catastrophic series of events that peel back the layers of human nature’s darker side.
Han Chae-young’s return to the silver screen after an eight-year hiatus has drawn significant attention. Her last film was Neighbor Star in 2017, making her role in The City of Evil a notable comeback. In this film, she embodies Yu-jeong, a kind-hearted star instructor whose faith in humanity becomes her vulnerability. Yu-jeong’s life takes a harrowing turn when she crosses paths with Seon-hee, a charming yet sinister businessman who sets a trap that drags her into a spiral of mental and physical torment.
Seon-hee’s character is a study in contrasts. Hyun Woo-sung’s portrayal ranges from a suave entrepreneur to a violent mobster, showcasing the many faces of evil. His dedication to this role was evident, with critics noting that it was his passionate performance that helped sustain the film’s over 100-minute runtime. As Hyun Woo-sung explained during the film’s press conference, his motivation for making the movie was to shine a light on the harsh reality where good people often end up hurt. “I wanted to raise awareness about the reality where good people are often the ones who get hurt,” he said, emphasizing the film’s core message that “anyone can be a perpetrator or a victim.”
The film’s plot thickens as Yu-jeong’s close brother, Kang-soo, senses something amiss between Yu-jeong and Seon-hee. His mistrust leads him to confront Seon-hee, escalating the conflict and adding layers of tension and suspense. This triangle of trust, distrust, and exploitation drives the narrative forward, revealing the devastating consequences of manipulation and betrayal.
Alongside the leads, the film features strong supporting performances by Kim Hye-eun and Kim Won-woo, who add depth and nuance to the story. The production, a collaboration between SFDREAM and Dio Studio, was distributed by Movie City SMC, and carries a 15-and-older rating, with a runtime of 103 minutes.
To commemorate the film’s release, a sketch video from the press conference was unveiled, capturing the lively atmosphere among the cast and crew. The video reveals behind-the-scenes anecdotes and moments of laughter, offering fans a glimpse into the making of this intense psychological thriller. The event also featured heartfelt interactions between the actors and their audience during stage greetings, further enhancing the film’s connection with viewers.
Despite the film’s strong thematic ambitions and committed performances, some critics have voiced reservations. While Hyun Woo-sung’s portrayal of Seon-hee was praised for its intensity, the character failed to resonate as a truly compelling villain. Critics pointed out that Seon-hee’s character came across as somewhat one-dimensional, driven by raw desire and greed without the charismatic depth or backstory that would make him a memorable antagonist. This lack of complexity diminished the overall tension and weight of the film’s conflict.
Similarly, Yu-jeong’s character, while effectively depicting the psychological toll of stalking, harassment, and gaslighting, was seen as limited in scope. Some reviews highlighted that her role primarily served to showcase female suffering rather than offering a fully fleshed-out character arc. This was particularly disappointing given Han Chae-young’s return to film, which many hoped would provide her a more challenging and dynamic role.
Nevertheless, The City of Evil stands out as a bold exploration of human darkness and vulnerability. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about trust and manipulation in society. The film’s message—that anyone can be both a victim and a perpetrator—resonates strongly, especially in a world where the boundaries between good and evil often blur.
As the film continues its run in theaters nationwide, it invites audiences to reflect on the fragile nature of human relationships and the dangers lurking beneath the surface. Hyun Woo-sung’s dual role as director and actor underscores a personal commitment to telling stories that expose societal ills and provoke thought.
In the end, The City of Evil may not fully satisfy all expectations, particularly in character development and narrative depth, but it undeniably sparks conversation and offers a chilling glimpse into the complexities of human nature. For those drawn to psychological thrillers that probe the shadows of morality, this film offers a compelling, if imperfect, journey.
