First Kiss Dominates Japanese Box Office with Record Opening

The highly anticipated film <첫 번째 키스> (First Kiss), written by Sakamoto Yuji and directed by Tsukahara Ayuko, premiered in Japan on February 7, 2025, and quickly claimed the top spot at the weekend box office, signaling a new wave of success for Japanese cinema this year.

The story follows Kanna (played by Matsu Takako), who faces a marital crisis after losing her husband Kakeru (Matsumura Hokuto) in an accident. In a twist of fate, she unexpectedly reunites with him 15 years later.

Sakamoto Yuji, known for winning the Best Screenplay award at the Cannes Film Festival for <괴물> (The Host), has once again captivated audiences with <첫 번째 키스>, which outperformed several strong competitors to secure the number one position. The film surpassed the animated foreign film <와일드 로봇> (Wild Robot) and achieved the highest ratings among newly released Japanese films, garnering both box office success and critical acclaim.

Notably, <첫 번째 키스> has outstripped the opening weekend earnings of South Korea's highest-grossing Japanese melodrama, <오늘밤, 이 세계에서 사랑이 사라진다 해도> (Even If Love Disappears from This World Tonight), as well as Sakamoto's previous work, <괴물>.

The film's success can be attributed to its universal appeal, with audiences praising it as a must-see for all ages. Comments such as "The combination of Sakamoto Yuji's writing and Tsukahara Ayuko's direction is exceptional!" and "Watching this film feels like reading a novel" highlight the enchanting performances of Matsu Takako and Matsumura Hokuto, as well as the unique directorial style of Tsukahara Ayuko. Viewers have expressed a desire to watch it multiple times with loved ones.

In addition to its success in Japan, <첫 번째 키스> will hold a special preview screening in South Korea before its official release. On February 14, 2025, coinciding with Valentine's Day, the film will be showcased, raising anticipation for how it will resonate with South Korean audiences on this special occasion.

Having topped the Japanese box office in its opening weekend, <첫 번째 키스> is set to hit theaters across South Korea on February 26, 2025.