The Korean film The King’s Warden has surpassed 5 million cumulative viewers just 18 days after its release on February 4.10
Box office figures confirm the milestone on February 21, fueled by strong word-of-mouth and positive audience feedback. The movie continues to draw crowds amid growing competition in theaters.
Story and Setting
Directed by Jang Hang-jun, The King’s Warden unfolds in Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, a historical exile site for deposed Joseon King Danjong. The narrative portrays a village chief, played by Yoo Hae-jin, who volunteers for exile to revitalize his community. It captures poignant moments of village life, including a father observing his newborn’s early days alongside the challenges faced by the young exiled king.5
Director’s Track Record
Jang Hang-jun builds on successes from Night of Memories (2017) and Rebound (2023). This latest project positions him for a potential 10 million viewer title, a feat unseen in Korean cinema for two years since 2024’s The Roundup: Punishment.3
Distributor Insights
A Showbox representative highlighted the film’s appeal: “This realistic portrayal draws from imaginative takes on events leading to Danjong’s tragic fate.” They added, “Few films have centered on Danjong previously. Despite familiar themes, it captivates with fresh charm, steadily building momentum.”1
Despite the rise of streaming platforms, theatrical releases like this demonstrate enduring audience demand for compelling stories.
