Korean Cinema at a Crossroads: Can Theaters Survive the Streaming Surge?
Seoul, South Korea – October 16, 2025 – A stark warning is echoing through the South Korean film industry: theaters are facing an unprecedented crisis. Attendance has plummeted since the COVID-19 pandemic, and recovery is proving stubbornly slow, threatening the very foundation of Korean cinema. This isn’t just a local issue; it’s a global trend, but Korea’s situation is particularly concerning, prompting urgent discussions about the future of the big screen experience.
The Numbers Tell a Grim Story
Through September of this year, a mere 75.2 million Koreans visited movie theaters – a staggering 22% decrease compared to the same period last year. Experts predict annual attendance could fall below 100 million for the first time in 21 years. Consider this: in 2019, over 200 million moviegoers flocked to Korean theaters. Now, that number has been effectively halved. The shift is undeniable, and the implications are far-reaching.
The Rise of OTT and a Changing Audience
The culprit? The convenience and affordability of Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Wavve. Younger generations are increasingly choosing to enjoy films from the comfort of their homes, unwilling to pay premium ticket prices and endure the constraints of a traditional theater visit. The fact that many theatrical releases become available on OTT platforms within 2-3 months further exacerbates the problem.
This isn’t simply about convenience; it’s about value. As one industry insider pointed out, a single movie ticket can cost as much as a monthly subscription to a major streaming service. For many, the equation simply doesn’t add up.
A Vicious Cycle: Declining Investment and Fewer Blockbusters
The decline in theater attendance is creating a dangerous cycle. As audiences dwindle, investment in film production decreases. Fewer films are released, and the quality suffers, making it even harder to attract viewers back to theaters. It’s a downward spiral that threatens the vibrancy of the entire Korean film ecosystem.
Finding a Path Forward: Lessons from Recent Successes
However, all is not lost. Recent box office successes offer glimmers of hope and valuable insights. “Zombie Daughter,” a film based on a popular webtoon, attracted 5.6 million viewers, becoming the highest-grossing Korean film of the year. Its success was fueled by a dedicated fandom, strong performances, and a unique blend of zombie horror and family drama. Crucially, its release coincided with government-sponsored discount coupons, making tickets incredibly affordable.
But government subsidies are only a temporary fix. The real solution lies in reminding audiences why the theatrical experience is unique and irreplaceable. Films like “Demon Slayer Movie: Infinite Castle” and “F1 The Movie” have demonstrated this power. Viewers lauded these films as “must-see” experiences on the big screen, praising the immersive visuals, the shared atmosphere, and the emotional impact that simply cannot be replicated at home.
The Importance of Differentiation and Quality
Jaeyong Lee, Director of the Culture Department, emphasizes the need to reclaim the “reason why movie theaters exist.” This means focusing on films that truly benefit from the big screen treatment – visually stunning spectacles, immersive action sequences, and emotionally resonant stories that demand to be experienced collectively.
As Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi eloquently stated at the Busan International Film Festival, there are two types of movies: those that follow the audience and those that lead it. The industry needs more of the latter – films that offer something truly special, something that can’t be found on any streaming platform.
The challenge is clear: Korean filmmakers must prioritize quality, innovation, and a deep understanding of what makes the theatrical experience truly magical. The future of Korean cinema depends on it. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continuing coverage of this developing story and in-depth analysis of the evolving film landscape.
