This year, the South Korean box office has seen an eclectic mix of genres dominating the charts, reflective of the diverse tastes of Korean moviegoers. Here is a rundown of the top 10 highest-grossing movies in South Korea for the year.
Photo for illustrative purposes. | Livewell
10. “Super Mario Bros”
Starting the list at number 10 is Super Mario Bros, released on April 26. The film managed to attract 2,395,138 viewers, generating a whopping ₩23.6 billion KRW (about $18.1 million USD) in sales. The video game adaptation has proven its lasting appeal by drawing in substantial audiences eager to experience the nostalgia and fun associated with the iconic characters.
9. “Oppenheimer”
Next, at number 9, Oppenheimer hit the screens on August 15. The film drew in 3,230,243 viewers, accumulating sales of ₩34.3 billion KRW (about $26.3 million USD). The historical biopic captured the imagination of viewers, offering a deep dive into the life of one of the most influential figures in modern science.
8. “Concrete Utopia”
The 8th spot goes to Concrete Utopia, released on August 9. With an attendance of 3,849,242, the film grossed ₩37.4 billion KRW (about $28.7 million USD). This movie, a blend of speculative fiction and drama, has made a significant impact, signaling the audience’s appreciation for thought-provoking cinema.
7. “Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One”
At number 7, Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One took the audience on another thrilling adventure from July 12. It amassed 4,022,072 viewers and sales of 4₩429 million KRW (about $329,000 USD), a testament to the enduring popularity of this high-octane action franchise.
6. “Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3”
Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3, which opened on May 3, is 6th on the list, with 4,209,119 viewers and sales of ₩44.4 billion KRW (about $34.0 million USD). The film’s successful mix of humor, action, and heart has clearly struck a chord with Korean audiences.
5. “The First Slam Dunk”
Number 5 is The First Slam Dunk, which opened on January 4 and has since seen 4,767,031 viewers, translating to ₩49.8 billion KRW (about $38.2 million USD)in sales. The anime’s blend of sports action and compelling storytelling has undoubtedly captivated fans.
4. “Smugglers”
The 4th spot is occupied by Smugglers, released on July 26. This film, which delves into the world of smuggling, attracted 5,143,005 viewers and made ₩49.7 billion KRW (about $38.1 million USD). Its position highlights the audience’s interest in crime and thriller genres.
3. “Suzume”
Suzume, opening on March 8, sits comfortably at number 3. The film’s viewership reached 5,573,128, and it garnered sales of ₩57.1 billion KRW (about $43.8 million USD), showcasing the unyielding popularity of animated features.
2. “Elemental”
The runner-up of the year is Elemental, which opened on June 14. It pulled in a massive 7,236,896 viewers and achieved sales of ₩71.1 billion KRW (about $54.5 million USD). The film’s universal themes and imaginative storytelling evidently resonated well with the audience.
1. “The Roundup: No Way Out”
Finally, at the top of the list is The Roundup: No Way Out, which opened on May 31. It shattered expectations with 10,682,813 viewers and sales of ₩105 billion KRW (about $80.3 million USD), proving to be the most successful film of the year. Its gripping narrative and action sequences have clearly set a high bar for cinematic success in South Korea.
