'Salmokji' Surpasses 3 Million Viewers, Becomes Second Highest-Grossing Korean Horror Film

The chilling Korean horror film 'Salmokji' has achieved a remarkable feat, crossing the 3 million viewer mark in just 33 days. This success places it firmly as the second highest-grossing horror film in South Korean cinematic history, a testament to its gripping narrative and widespread appeal. The film has now set its sights on breaking the all-time record, currently held by the 2003 classic 'A Tale of Two Sisters,' which drew over 3.14 million viewers.

Director Lee Sang-min, who debuted with 'The Ghost App' last year, has delivered a sophomore feature that resonates deeply with audiences. 'Salmokji' tells the unsettling story of road view service employees who venture into a mysterious reservoir known as 'Salmokji' for filming, only to encounter terrifying events. The film boasts a talented cast, including Kim Hye-yoon, Lee Jong-won, Kim Joon-han, Kim Young-sung, Oh Dong-min, Yoon Jae-chan, and Jang Da-ah.

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3 million is a number I could never have imagined; I wonder if this is reality. I truly feel I am receiving more love than I deserve.

In a statement released through distributor Showbox, Director Lee expressed his astonishment and profound gratitude for the overwhelming reception. "3 million is a number I could never have imagined; I wonder if this is reality. I truly feel I am receiving more love than I deserve," he shared. He further elaborated, "The numerous fortunes and records 'Salmokji' has created are, for me, another benchmark to overcome in the future. I will work hard to continue delivering good films that do not fall short of that feeling and expectation."

This box office triumph is particularly significant in the context of Korean cinema, where horror films often face an uphill battle for mainstream success. 'Salmokji's' performance demonstrates a strong audience appetite for domestically produced horror, challenging the dominance of international blockbusters. The film's ability to connect with local audiences, tapping into cultural anxieties and storytelling traditions, is a key factor in its success, offering a distinctively Korean cinematic experience that sets it apart from global horror trends.

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The numerous fortunes and records 'Salmokji' has created are, for me, another benchmark to overcome in the future. I will work hard to continue delivering good films that do not fall short of that feeling and expectation.