The Man Living with the King, Exceeds 10 Million Viewers

President Lee Jae-myung congratulated the movie 'The King and the Jester' on surpassing 10 million viewers, stating, "It is even more meaningful as it is an achievement made two years after 2024." The President conveyed his celebratory message through social media, saying, "​This is a valuable fruit borne from the outstanding imagination and power of storytelling of filmmakers, and the citizens who wholeheartedly supported them."

President Lee encouraged them by saying, "I offer congratulations and gratitude to the director and actors who created a precious space for empathy, and to all the staff who worked hard to complete the work." He added, "​I look forward to many more stories meeting the world and being loved." Furthermore, he supported the future of Korean cinema by stating, "​The government will also do its best to create a country where freedom of creation breathes and culture becomes the pride of the people."

The movie 'The King and the Jester' surpassed 10 million cumulative viewers on the 6th, its 31st day of release. This marks the 34th film to reach 10 million viewers among all domestic releases, and it is the first such film in two years since 'Exhuma' and 'The Roundup: Punishment' in 2024. President Lee had watched the movie with First Lady Kim Hye-kyung on February 17th, during the Lunar New Year holiday.

'The King and the Jester' surpassed 11 million viewers on its 33rd day of release, attracting audiences at a faster pace than 'Exhuma,' '12.12: The Day,' and 'Masquerade.' The film depicts the story of the deposed King Danjong, Yi Hong-wi, spending his final days with villagers, and has been loved by audiences of all ages for its focus on human connection.

Fueled by the movie's success, audiences are enjoying its lingering impact in various ways, such as visiting Yeongwol in Gangwon Province, the film's setting, or showing interest in the history of King Danjong. Director Jang Hang-jun has become a director with his first 10 million-viewer film, and actor Yoo Hae-jin has become the protagonist of his fifth 10 million-viewer film.