Korean Film '1600만' Hits Box Office Milestone

The movie "12.12: The Day" surpassed 16 million viewers on the morning of the 5th, 61 days after its release. This makes it the third film in domestic box office history to draw over 16 million viewers, following "The Admiral: Roaring Currents" (17.61 million) and "Extreme Job" (16.26 million). At its current pace, it is expected to surpass "Extreme Job" this week and become the second highest-grossing film of all time.

"12.12: The Day" has shown a unique box office trend, with explosive initial audience numbers followed by sustained popularity driven by word-of-mouth. The high proportion of "N-time viewers" who watched the movie multiple times is considered a significant factor in its success. According to a CGV member survey, 8 out of 100 viewers watched the film more than twice, and the rate of those who watched it three or more times is tied for first place among all movies that have surpassed 10 million viewers, alongside "12.12: The Day" and "Masquerade." The word-of-mouth from these "loyal viewers" is believed to have influenced the film's 16 million viewer milestone.

The film's success is also boosting related content. The script for "12.12: The Day" topped bestseller lists even during its pre-sale period, and the ballad "A Friend," sung by actress Jeon Mi-do who plays Mae Hwa in the movie, was released on the 3rd and has been well-received. The song was composed by the film's music director Dalpalan and written by singer Yoon Jong-shin.

The film's impact is also positively affecting the local economy in Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, where it was filmed. Yeongwol is experiencing a "trickle-down effect" with an influx of tourists revitalizing local businesses. Director Jang Hang-jun has expressed his hope that this film will serve as an opportunity for the domestic film industry to leap forward.

Meanwhile, "12.12: The Day's" reign at the top was briefly interrupted by the release of the Hollywood sci-fi film "Project Hail Mary" on the 4th. "12.12: The Day" had maintained its number one position at the box office for 51 days since its release on February 4th.