Tidal Wave

A hardworking local from Haeundae who is emotionally guarded after past losses. He is practical, stubborn, and protective, yet the looming disaster drags him toward hope and a chance at love. His arc centers on choosing to pursue Yeon-heui and rebuilding a life with her and the community.

Owner of an unlicensed seafood restaurant who is strong-willed and resilient. She seeks connection with Man-shik while navigating independence and vulnerability under the pressure of disaster. Her decisions affect both personal and communal hopes for the future.

A geologist and the ex-husband of Yoo-jin, father to Ji-min. He wrestles with paternal responsibility and the desire to protect his daughter, ultimately choosing to reveal his paternity at a critical moment. He dies in the megatsunami that follows, leaving his daughter and former partner to cope with loss.

The ex-wife of Hwi and mother to Ji-min, who has a new boyfriend, Hae-chan. She and Hwi keep their daughter's knowledge of their relationship central to Ji-min's sense of family. Her choices reflect the complexities of post-disaster life and reconciling with an ex-partner.

The daughter of Hwi and Yoo-jin, sheltered from the truth about her paternity. Her presence anchors the family dynamics and highlights the impact of adult secrecy on a child's sense of identity. She experiences the strain of parental tensions amid the citywide crisis.

A lifeguard who rescues Hee-mi and makes a fateful choice to sacrifice himself for others. His bravery and ultimate surrender illustrate the human cost of heroism during the disaster.

A wealthy Seoul student who falls into the sea and is rescued by Hyeong-sik. Their growing connection adds a human warmth to the film’s catastrophe and underscores the possibility of new beginnings after tragedy.

The head chairman of Busan who advocates redevelopment. He ultimately sacrifices himself to save Man-sik, a pivotal act that underscores duty over self-preservation during crisis.

Man-sik's half-brother who becomes entangled in illegal schemes with his son Seung-hyun. Their later police confrontation highlights moral conflict within a family fractured by hardship.

Dong-chun's son who witnesses the chaos around the Gwangan Bridge and the city’s collapse. His experience adds a youthful perspective to the disaster’s aftermath and the family’s struggle to endure.