Na Hong-jin’s Milestone in Korean Cinema

South Korean director Na Hong-jin has achieved an unprecedented milestone with his sci-fi epic “Hope,” which has secured international distribution deals that shatter all previous sales records for a Korean film.

The ambitious project generated massive global interest following its premiere at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, where it competed for the Palme d’Or—marking the first time in four years that a South Korean film has entered the festival’s main competition.

The film boasts a star-studded international ensemble cast, including Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander, alongside acclaimed Korean actors Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, and Jung Ho-yeon, along with Taylor Russell.

“Hope” carries the largest budget in Korean cinema history, making it Na Hong-jin’s most ambitious undertaking since his 2016 hit “The Wailing.” Set in the remote Hope Harbor village near the Korean Demilitarized Zone, the sci-fi action thriller follows residents facing a terrifying struggle after discovering deadly extraterrestrial creatures.

“It’s the most expensive film in the history of Korean cinema,” Na Hong-jin told AFP at Cannes.

The film is currently in post-production with a summer 2026 release scheduled across international markets. With an 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on early reviews, the project has already generated considerable buzz among cinephiles.

Plus M Entertainment is handling international sales, while the UTA Independent Film Group secured North American distribution rights.

The record-breaking deal underscores South Korea’s escalating influence in global filmmaking. Coming a decade after “The Wailing,” Na Hong-jin’s latest venture signals renewed momentum for Korean sci-fi at the international box office, building on the momentum created by global hits like “Parasite.”