SEOUL — President Lee Jae-myung extended his heartfelt congratulations on Saturday to the creators and cast of the historical drama The Man Living with the King as the film officially surpassed the 10-million-viewer mark, a prestigious milestone in the South Korean film industry.
The President used the occasion to reaffirm his administration's commitment to fostering a vibrant creative ecosystem, promising to transform the cultural sector into a primary driver of national pride and economic growth.
A Historic Milestone for Korean Cinema
According to the film’s distributor, Showbox, the movie reached the 10-million-viewer threshold on Friday afternoon, just 31 days after its initial release. Directed by the acclaimed Jang Hang-jun, the film is the 34th in South Korean box office history to reach the "10-million club" and the 25th domestic production to do so. This marks the first time a Korean film has achieved such a feat since the 2024 action hit The Roundup: Punishment.
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on March 7, President Lee praised the collective effort behind the achievement. "Korean cinema has grown steadily through the passion and challenge of creators and the unwavering love of the audience," the President wrote. "The government will do its utmost to create a country where the freedom of creation breathes and culture becomes a source of pride for all citizens."
The 'Danjong Syndrome' Sweeps the Nation
The Man Living with the King explores the poignant historical narrative of King Danjong, the young deposed monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, and Eom Heung-do, a village head at the King’s place of exile. The film’s nuanced portrayal of loyalty and tragedy has resonated deeply with the public, sparking what local media have dubbed the "Danjong Syndrome," leading to renewed interest in Joseon-era history.
President Lee’s connection to the film is personal. During the Lunar New Year holiday last month, the President and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung were spotted at a local theater attending a public screening of the movie.
Reflecting on that experience, the President noted, "The fact that so many people sought out this film means its sincerity moved the hearts of the audience and created a deep resonance. I send my congratulations and gratitude to the director, actors, and all the staff who worked tirelessly to complete this work and provide us with a precious space for empathy."
Culture as a New Economic Engine
Beyond the artistic achievement, President Lee emphasized the strategic importance of the film industry. He characterized the 10-million milestone as a "valuable fruit" born from the superior imagination and storytelling power of Korean filmmakers, backed by the support of the public.
The administration has signaled that it views the "K-Culture" wave not just as a diplomatic tool, but as a critical "future food" (new growth engine) for the South Korean economy. By ensuring creative freedom and providing institutional support, the government aims to help more local stories find success on the global stage.
"I look forward to more stories meeting the world and being loved," President Lee concluded. "I will vigorously cheer for the new challenges and the shining future of Korean cinema."
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