Director Jang Hang-jun's "The Roundup" Surpasses 5 Million Viewers

The film 'The King and the Man' is creating a box office sensation, being the first film released in 2026 to surpass 5 million viewers. Director Jang Hang-jun expressed his joy, saying, "I am very happy to hear continuous good news while attending stage greetings," and added, "I am relieved that the actors and staff who worked with me are all happy."

'The King and the Man' is set in Cheongnyongpo in 1457 and tells the story of a village chief who voluntarily exiled himself for the village's prosperity and a young former king who was banished from the throne. The film, which highlights the friendship that transcends class between the young King Danjong and Chief Eom Heung-do, who protected him until his end, is receiving enthusiastic responses from audiences.

Thanks to the film's popularity, tourists are increasingly visiting Yeongwol, the actual place of King Danjong's exile. Online communities and social media are abuzz with tourists visiting Cheongnyongpo, creating a spectacle reminiscent of the commoners in the movie. Director Jang Hang-jun was deeply moved, stating, "The fact that people are visiting Yeongwol itself shows their affection and interest in the movie, and I am grateful for that."

The director revealed that evaluations such as 'It captured the era well' or 'The actors' performances are epic' are memorable. The film features acclaimed performances from actors including Park Ji-hoon as Danjong, Yoo Hae-jin as Eom Heung-do, Jeon Mi-do as Mae-hwa, and Yoo Ji-tae as Han Myeong-hoe.

Meanwhile, speculation arose about a reward vacation when director Jang Hang-jun and the production team's European travel plans were revealed. However, it was not a reward vacation but the director's consideration to share the work with the staff. Director Jang stated, "I am taking a trip with the directing staff for a break," and revealed that they had already traveled to Western Europe after filming concluded.

'The King and the Man' surpassed 5 million viewers in 18 days of its release, a record faster than 'King and the Clown' and on par with 'Masquerade'. As a result, expectations are mounting among film industry insiders as to whether it will break the theater recession and achieve even greater box office success.

Director Jang Hang-jun expressed a cautious stance, saying, "As the film market is difficult, I initially hoped only to break even." However, he added, "I am simply grateful for the support and expectations of the audience," and is reciprocating the audience's enthusiasm with stage greetings and GV sessions across the country.