As the festive season drew to a close, the South Korean box office continued its vibrant performance, showcasing a diverse array of cinematic offerings that captivated audiences across various genres. From epic sci-fi spectacles to poignant local romances and cherished animated features, the final days of December — specifically the December 26-28 frame — painted a picture of a robust and dynamic film market. Dominating this landscape with an undeniable force was James Cameron’s highly anticipated Avatar: Fire and Ash, asserting its global appeal and technological prowess on Korean screens.
The latest installment in Cameron’s visually groundbreaking Avatar saga, Fire and Ash, demonstrated an extraordinary hold over the Korean market, further cementing its status as a cinematic event. During the specified three-day period, the film commanded an impressive $8.6 million from over a million admissions, according to KOBIS, the official tracking service of the Korean Film Council. This formidable weekend tally propelled its cumulative earnings to a remarkable $32.5 million. The Avatar franchise, known for its immersive world-building, revolutionary CGI, and profound ecological themes, has consistently resonated with audiences worldwide since its inception. Cameron’s vision for Pandora, with its breathtaking landscapes and intricate ecosystems, offers an escape into a fantastical realm that transcends cultural barriers. For many viewers, the opportunity to witness such a spectacle on the big screen, particularly in advanced formats, is a driving factor behind its sustained success. The film’s extended run and impressive totals reflect not only the enduring legacy of its creator but also the Korean audience’s appreciation for high-concept blockbusters that push the boundaries of cinematic artistry. Its narrative, often exploring themes of nature, community, and the fight for survival, provides a compelling backdrop to its visual splendor, offering a rich experience that appeals to a broad demographic, including those who appreciate strong, empathetic characters and a powerful underlying message.
Holding firm in the runner-up position was Disney’s animated powerhouse, Zootopia 2, which continued to charm its way into the hearts of families and animation enthusiasts alike. The sequel added a substantial $3 million to its coffers over the weekend, elevating its total cumulative gross to an impressive $50.3 million. Having surpassed 7.4 million admissions, Zootopia 2 has firmly established itself as one of the top-performing imported animated releases of 2025. The original Zootopia captivated audiences with its clever storytelling, vibrant characters, and timely themes of prejudice, diversity, and the pursuit of dreams. Its success was largely attributed to its ability to entertain children while simultaneously offering profound social commentary for adults. The sequel appears to be replicating this winning formula, benefiting from the nostalgia and affection generated by its predecessor. For a women-focused audience, Zootopia‘s central character, Judy Hopps, a determined and ambitious rabbit police officer, serves as an inspiring figure, embodying resilience and breaking stereotypes. The film’s continued strong performance underscores the enduring appeal of quality animated storytelling that combines humor, heart, and meaningful messages, making it a beloved choice for family outings during the holiday season.
Making a significant debut in third place was the South Korean romantic drama, Even If This Love Disappears from the World Tonight. The film, which opened with $1.2 million over the weekend and accumulated $2.5 million in its first five days, immediately carved out a space for itself amidst the international giants. Directed by Kim Hye-young, a rising voice in Korean cinema, and based on the poignant novel by Ichijo Misaki, the film stars the promising talents of Choo Young-woo and Shin Si-ah. This bittersweet high-school romance centers on a girl afflicted with anterograde amnesia, whose memories tragically reset each morning. Such a premise, exploring the fragility of memory and the steadfastness of love, is a hallmark of the popular K-drama genre, known for its emotional depth and intricate character development. For a women-focused audience, this film’s exploration of enduring love in the face of insurmountable challenges, coupled with the captivating performances of its young leads, offers a deeply resonant and moving cinematic experience. The success of local romantic dramas like this highlights the strength and diversity of South Korean filmmaking, which continues to produce narratives that connect profoundly with its domestic audience and increasingly, with a global fanbase. The presence of a female director like Kim Hye-young further enriches the industry landscape, bringing unique perspectives and storytelling sensibilities to the forefront.
Following closely in fourth place was another animated hit, the Japanese release Crayon Shinchan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers. This latest installment in the long-running and beloved Crayon Shinchan franchise grossed $773,000 for the weekend, bringing its total to $1.8 million. The series, known for its irreverent humor and quirky characters, maintains a dedicated following, particularly among families and those who grew up with the mischievous Shinchan. Its consistent performance demonstrates the lasting appeal of established animated brands in the Korean market.
The fifth spot was occupied by the local family favorite, Pororo the Movie: Sweet Castle Adventure. Adding $147,000 to its cumulative total, the film has now reached $1.2 million. Pororo, the adorable penguin character, is a cultural icon in South Korea, beloved by generations of children. Films featuring Pororo consistently draw in young audiences and their parents, providing wholesome entertainment and reinforcing the importance of friendship and adventure. These family-centric films play a crucial role in the box office, offering accessible and engaging content for the youngest moviegoers.
Continuing its steady and impressive run in sixth place was the South Korean comedy-drama The People Upstairs, pushing its cumulative haul to $3.6 million. Directed by the multi-talented Ha Jung-woo, who also stars in the film, this feature boasts an ensemble cast of industry heavyweights including Gong Hyo-jin, Kim Dong-wook, and Lee Ha-nee. The film delves into the relatable and often exasperating plight of a downstairs couple driven to the brink by the incessant noise from their upstairs neighbors. What begins as a tense dinner aimed at resolving the issue quickly unravels into an evening of sharp confessions, shifting dynamics, and unexpected revelations. This film’s strength lies in its keen observation of human nature and social dynamics, transforming an everyday annoyance into a compelling narrative. For a women-focused audience, the presence of acclaimed actresses like Gong Hyo-jin and Lee Ha-nee, known for their versatile performances and strong screen presence, adds significant appeal. Their portrayal of complex characters navigating modern urban challenges, often with a blend of humor and pathos, resonates deeply, offering both entertainment and food for thought about interpersonal relationships and societal pressures.
The box office also welcomed new contenders from diverse genres. Stephen King’s adaptation, The Life of Chuck, made its debut in seventh place, earning $43,642. King’s mastery of the macabre and profound storytelling continues to attract a global audience, and this film, exploring themes of mortality and the human condition, offers a different flavor to the festive offerings. Eighth place saw Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 add $38,622, bringing its total to $1.5 million, highlighting the continued popularity of horror films, particularly those adapted from successful video game franchises, among a younger demographic.
Rounding out the top ten were two Japanese anthology features, Tatsuki Fujimoto 17–26 Part-1 and Tatsuki Fujimoto 17–26 Part-2, which earned $44,274 and $44,473 respectively. These films cater to a specific and dedicated fanbase of manga and anime enthusiasts, particularly those familiar with the distinct and often experimental work of Tatsuki Fujimoto, creator of the critically acclaimed Chainsaw Man. Their appearance in the top ten underscores the diverse tastes within the Korean market and the strong appeal of Japanese animation beyond mainstream blockbusters.
Collectively, the top ten films grossed $14.02 million over the Dec. 26-28 weekend. While this figure represented a slight dip from the previous weekend’s $15.2 million, it nonetheless signifies a healthy and competitive market. The continued success of both international blockbusters and cherished local productions, alongside a variety of animated and genre-specific films, indicates a thriving cinematic landscape. The festive period proved to be a time for audiences to embrace both grand spectacles and intimate narratives, demonstrating the enduring power of storytelling in all its forms. The Korean box office, with its blend of global hits and homegrown gems, continues to be a vibrant and crucial cultural touchstone, offering a rich tapestry of entertainment for every viewer.
