Inside ‘The Snitch’: The High-Stakes Subway Scene That Had Only One Shot

‘The Snitch’ (Korean title: YADANG) continues to enthrall audiences with its gripping plot and high-stakes action sequences. The film, helmed by director Hwang Byung-gook, dives deep into the underworld of South Korea’s drug trafficking and judicial corruption, as three men – a broker, a prosecutor, and a detective – with conflicting motives entwine in intense pursuit.

One of the film’s most thrilling scenes unfolds in a subway station – the Namdong Station drug bust. In this pivotal moment, characters Lee Kang-soo, Gu Kwan-hee (played by Yoo Hae-jin), and Oh Sang-jae converge to capture the elusive smuggler. The particular timing of the subway’s arrival was critical to nail the perfect shot.

According to the production team, they had only two hours to film the entire scene with zero room for error. Once the train passed, they couldn’t re-board at a previous stop due to time constraints. Approximately 200 crew members, including the actors, were under intense pressure to synchronize every move. Gu Kwan-hee stepping out precisely at platform number 4-2 was a make-or-break moment.

Fortunately, thanks to seamless teamwork and meticulous planning, the shot was completed successfully in a single take. Director Hwang Byung-gook recollected, “Just thinking about that scene still gives me goosebumps.”

Beyond delivering the adrenaline of action, the film carries a sobering message on the dangers of drugs and systemic corruption. A particularly striking symbol appears in Gu Kwan-hee’s office – a framed scroll reading ‘Sohwae Nanpa’, meaning “When the nest is destroyed, the eggs are broken.” It’s a phrase often used by prosecutors to highlight the fragility of law and its protection of the people.

‘The Snitch’ isn’t just action-packed — it’s layered with social commentary and sharp detail, making audiences reflect on the structures that uphold justice. While the film captivates viewers on-screen, it leaves a lasting impact off-screen too, staging a compelling narrative of power, morality, and survival.

Currently screening nationwide, ‘The Snitch’ continues to see extended success, helped along by fascinating behind-the-scenes stories like this one.