Firefighter Movie Surpasses 1.19 Million Viewers in Just 10 Days

The film 'Firefighter' (소방관), directed by Kwak Kyung-taek and produced by ㈜에스크로드 픽쳐스 and ㈜아센디오, has made a significant impact at the box office, surpassing 1.19 million viewers just ten days after its release. As of December 13, 2024, at 3:20 PM, the film has been receiving rave reviews and is heating up the winter cinema scene.

The milestone of 1.19 million viewers holds special significance, as it reflects the emergency number '119' in South Korea. Additionally, 'Firefighter' is participating in the '119 Won Donation Challenge,' where 119 won from each ticket sold will be donated to the National Fire Hospital, set to open in 2025. So far, the film has raised over 141.61 million won, showcasing a commitment to making a positive impact alongside its audience.

The movie tells the gripping story of firefighters who, during the tragic Hongje-dong fire disaster in 2001, faced dire conditions while striving to extinguish the flames and rescue all victims. Notably, the film has seen an increase in audience numbers in its second week, indicating strong word-of-mouth and potential for continued success.

In terms of ticket pre-sales, 'Firefighter' is performing well against other December releases such as 'Big Family,' 'Moana 2,' and 'Harbin,' further proving its popularity. The heartfelt performances of the cast and the film's authentic portrayal of real events have garnered significant attention, not only for its emotional impact but also for raising awareness about the treatment of firefighters.

However, the film's director, Kwak Kyung-taek, has recently faced controversy due to his brother, lawmaker Kwak Gyu-taek, abstaining from a vote on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol. This has sparked calls for a boycott of 'Firefighter.' In response, Kwak Kyung-taek expressed his disappointment and anger over his brother's decision, stating that the impeachment was warranted.