These recommendations for the best Asian supernatural horror movies will take you on a thrilling experience. That is, when the difference between the real world and the supernatural becomes unclear.
From tales of urban legends to mystical fears arising from past events, this list of horror movies shows that Asia not only has a rich culture, but also a wealth of spooky stories that can compete internationally.
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Recommended Best Asian Supernatural Horror Movies
12. Ju-On: The Curse
Ju-on: The Curse is a Japanese supernatural horror film released in 2000 and is the first part of the Ju-on franchise, following two short films. The story in the film is told out of sequence through six segments, each titled according to the character that is the focus of the segment.
In a jealous rage, a man killed his wife and child in their home, and everyone who visited the place fell victim to a terrible curse.
11. Medium (2021)
Next up is Medium. If you like documentary-format horror movies that explore mystical beliefs, Thailand’s The Medium is a great choice.
The story follows the journey of a shaman and his niece who undergo mysterious behavioral changes, providing gripping moments that get the heart racing.
Despite using the common found-footage approach, The Medium manages to create an eerie and interesting atmosphere.
10. Incantation (2022)
The next best Asian Horror movie is Incantation. Along with The Medium, Incantation also stands out as a supernatural horror film with a found footage style that is worth noting.
The movie tells the story of Li Ronan (Tsai Hsuan Yen) who is trapped in a curse after visiting a remote village in Taiwan, providing real and powerful suspense.
In addition, the shocking climax of the story makes Incantation not only a scary movie, but also a thought-provoking one.
9. Metamorphosis (2019)
What if a malevolent, face-changing entity enters your family’s life? Metamorphosis invites viewers into the story of a family shaken by the presence of this supernatural being, which causes unexpected chaos and fear.
This horror movie provides a new perspective on the exorcism horror genre, by presenting an in-depth exploration of faith, family, and the fear of the unknown.
8. Munafik (2016)
The movie Munafik tells the story of a man who discovers a surprising fact about the cause of his beloved wife’s death.
After his beloved wife dies in an accident, Adam (Syamsul Yusof) continues to drown in grief and mourning. In addition, he also lost his faith in God and stopped helping people who needed his help.
One day, Adam was assigned to visit the home of someone who was experiencing serious problems related to the supernatural.
One of their family members, Maria (Nabila Huda), is suffering from depression which is causing her a lot of pain.
However, they also believe that mental illness is not the only reason for what happened to Maria.
Adam had no alternative but to meet with Maria and perform an exorcism. As the procession begins, Adam manages to discover shocking information about the connection between Maria and the accident that befell his wife.
7. Sebelum Iblis Menjemput (2018)
The next best Asian supernatural horror movies recommendation comes from Indonesia. Sebelum Iblis Menjemput invites viewers into a world of suspenseful horror in a style reminiscent of the works of director Sam Raimi.
The movie follows the adventures of a young woman who seeks answers to her father’s mysterious illness and discovers terrifying horrors in her family’s old villa.
With a combination of effective jump scares and creepy ghost makeup, Sebelum Iblis Menjemput is a must-watch movie for horror fans.
6. The Tag-Along (2015)
The Tag-Along has taken the Taiwanese horror industry by storm with its story inspired by local urban tales.
The movie tells the mystery of a little girl dressed in red who follows the characters in the movie, causing fear that hits the audience psychologically.
The unique storytelling style and deep exploration of the characters’ backgrounds make The Tag-Along one of the best Asian supernatural horror films you should watch.
5. Pengabdi Setan (2017)
Director Joko Anwar’s Indonesian horror film successfully evokes fear by reviving a legendary story.
The movie is set in an old house adjacent to a cemetery, and tells the story of a family entangled in a curse after the death of their mother.
Pengabdi Setan combines elements of classic horror with a thrilling modern twist. With excellent tension building, the movie offers a very gripping horror experience.
4. The Wailing (2016)
The Wailing is a South Korean supernatural horror movie that combines elements of mystery and terror in a remote village.
The movie tells the story of a series of serial killings and a mysterious disease that creates chaos, with a plot full of surprises.
By focusing on psychological aspects rather than just jump scares, The Wailing manages to create real tension and leave a lasting impression on the audience.
3. Di Ambang Kematian (2023)
On the Threshold of Death pushes the boundaries of the horror genre. The movie tells the story of Suyatmo’s family who are trapped in a tragic ritual, offering increasing tension from start to finish.
With strong performances from Teuku Rifnu Wikana and Taskya Namya, the movie not only touches the heart but also delivers joy through every scene.
Di Ambang Kematian is also elevated by a clever twist that enriches Indonesian horror films with an authentic and innovative local touch.
2. Exhuma (2024)
Next we have the latest horror movie on this list. Exhuma brings a story about the occult that appeals to the audience.
With actors such as Choi Min Sik, Lee Do Hyun, Kim Go Eun, and Yoo Hae Jin, the movie features unique characters such as a shaman, feng shui expert, and funeral director who are experts in their fields.
In Exhuma, viewers are taken through two layers of suspenseful storytelling: one side reveals the attempted removal of a respectable family’s tomb, while the other unravels the mystery behind a hidden ancient coffin.
Based on the direction of director Jang Jae Hyun (The Priests, Svaha: The Sixth Finger), the movie is not just about the mystical, but also a creepy journey to uncover stories that have been buried by time.
1. Bulbbul (2020)
The best Asian supernatural horror movies recommendation on this list comes from India. Set in Bengal in the 19th century, Bulbbul presents a story that is more than just horror, exploring social tragedy with a touch of fantasy and mystery.
The film criticizes society’s habitual silence on the injustices experienced by women, while featuring a powerful story and stunning visual depictions.
Bulbbul is quietly paced but still manages to hold your attention, making it a standout work of art in the Asian supernatural horror genre.
