South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has extended his congratulations to the film ‘Man Living with the King’ after it surpassed 10 million viewers, a significant milestone for the domestic film industry. The President lauded the film’s success as a testament to the power of storytelling and the dedication of the creative team, as well as the enthusiastic support of the Korean public.
The film, which tells the story of King Danjong and the village headman Uhm Heung-do, achieved the 10 million viewer mark just 31 days after its release, as of 6:30 PM on March 6th, 2026, according to The Dailyian. This makes it the 34th domestic film to reach this benchmark and the first to do so in two years, since 2024.
President Lee took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his excitement, stating, “I heard the good news. It’s even more meaningful as it is an achievement made in two years after 2024.” He further emphasized that the film’s popularity demonstrates its ability to resonate with audiences on a deeply emotional level. “The fact that so many people have sought out this film means that the sincerity conveyed by the operate has touched the hearts of viewers and evoked a profound resonance,” he wrote, according to WikiTree.
He extended his gratitude to the director, cast, and crew for creating a “precious space for empathy” and expressed hope for continued success for Korean cinema. “I congratulate and thank the director, actors, and all the staff who worked hard to complete the work,” President Lee stated. “I seem forward to many more stories meeting the world and being loved. The government will do its best to create a country where creative freedom thrives and culture is a source of national pride.”
The President’s support for ‘Man Living with the King’ extends beyond social media. He and First Lady Kim Hye-gyeong personally attended a screening of the film during the Lunar New Year holiday on February 17th, 2026, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the Korean film industry, as reported by Nate News.
The film’s success is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by the industry in recent years. Reaching the 10 million viewer milestone signifies a resurgence in audience engagement and a renewed appreciation for Korean storytelling. The film’s narrative, based on the historical figures of King Danjong and Uhm Heung-do, has clearly struck a chord with viewers.
President Lee’s message underscores the importance of cultural initiatives and the government’s dedication to fostering an environment where creativity can flourish. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that cultural expression remains a source of national pride and a vital part of Korean identity.
As ‘Man Living with the King’ continues its run in theaters, its success is expected to inspire further investment and innovation within the Korean film industry. The film’s impact will likely be felt for some time, paving the way for future cinematic achievements and solidifying Korea’s position as a global cultural powerhouse.
What impact will this success have on future historical dramas? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
