South Korea Cracks Down on 'Odyssey' IMAX Ticket Scalping

The South Korean Film Promotion Committee has launched a crackdown on illegal ticket resales, particularly for the popular IMAX film 'Odyssey.' Online used-goods platforms are flooded with listings for prime seats, with pairs of tickets fetching over 100,000 won, a stark increase from the original price of 17,000 to 21,000 won. Some sought-after seats even reached 300,000 won shortly after the film's release.

The committee stated that the surge in scalping, often using macro programs to secure large numbers of tickets, is causing significant harm and dissatisfaction among regular moviegoers. 'Odyssey' has garnered immense attention, being the first film shot entirely on IMAX film, leading to fierce competition for tickets, especially for the 'Yongsan IMAX' theater, known for its massive screen and 1.43:1 aspect ratio.

“

We are constantly receiving reports of illegal trading where tickets for special theater seats, which are highly preferred by audiences when a popular movie is released, are secured in bulk using macro programs and then resold at a premium on online used-goods platforms and social media.

To combat this issue, the committee has established a dedicated reporting channel for the public to submit evidence of illegal ticket trading. They aim to collect detailed information on actual victim cases and suspicious transactions to develop effective measures against scalping. The committee emphasized its commitment to fostering a fair viewing environment for all audiences.

“

The committee is now accepting tip-offs on scalping-related offenses starting from the 18th to identify the reality of illegal trading of tickets for special theaters (IMAX, 4DX, Dolby Cinema, etc.) in domestic movie theaters and to prevent audience damage and create a fair viewing environment.