The Korean film industry is seeing a notable recovery already this year, according to industry experts, as the strong performance of mid-budget movies provides a much-needed boost to a market that has struggled for a long time without any blockbusters. They said the box office is currently being led by three distinct mid-budget hits: the historical drama “The King’s Warden,” the romance “Once We Were Us” and the breakout musical drama “Choir of God.” These films, all produced with modest budgets compared to typical blockbusters, are being praised for their storytelling and strong acting rather than relying on massive spectacle. Leading this resurgence is “The King’s Warden,” directed by Jang Hang-jun. As of Thursday, the movie has garnered over 4.17 million admissions, dominating the Lunar New Year holiday season. Produced on a budget of around 10 billion won ($6.9 million), the film has already easily passed its break-even point and is now the highest-grossing film released so far this year. Joining this success is “Once We Were Us,” starring Mun Ga-young and Koo Kyo-hwan. A rema
Budget-friendly films revitalize Korean box office in early 2026
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Latest News from Korea
- Budget-friendly films revitalize Korean box office in early 2026
The Korean film industry is seeing a notable recovery already this year, according to industry experts, as the strong performance of mid-budget movies provides a much-needed boost to a market that has struggled for a long time without any blockbusters. They said the box office is currently being led by three distinct mid-budget hits: the historical drama “The King’s Warden,”… Read more: Budget-friendly films revitalize Korean box office in early 2026 - Japan PM Takaichi warns of China ‘coercion’, vows security overhaulTOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned of growing Chinese “coercion” in her first post-election speech to parliament on Friday, and pledged to overhaul defence strategy, ease curbs on military exports and strengthen critical supply chains. Takaichi’s four-month tenure has been marked by a diplomatic dispute with China after she said Japan could deploy military force to counter any… Read more: Japan PM Takaichi warns of China ‘coercion’, vows security overhaul
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Learn People & History of Korea
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