Harbin Surpasses 4 Million Viewers Amidst Current Turmoil

The film '하얼빈' (Harbin) has made a significant impact, reaching over 4 million viewers despite the challenging political climate. According to the Korean Film Council's integrated ticketing system, as of January 11, the film attracted 134,708 viewers across 1,247 screens, bringing its total to 4,062,055 and securing the top spot at the box office.

In comparison, '소방관' (Firefighter) drew 37,603 viewers for a cumulative total of 3,669,219, placing it second, while '동화지만 청불입니다' (Fairy Tale but Rated R) came in third with 27,678 viewers and a total of 79,415. '뽀로로 극장판 바닷속 대모험' (Pororo: The Movie - Underwater Adventure) added 24,744 viewers for a total of 253,679, ranking fourth, and '수퍼 소닉3' (Sonic the Hedgehog 3) rounded out the top five with 24,353 viewers, totaling 253,138.

Directed by 우민호 (Woo Min-ho) and distributed by CJ ENM, '하얼빈' is set in 1909 and follows a tense chase between those heading to Harbin for a singular purpose and those pursuing them. The film portrays the journey of An Jung-geun (played by 현빈), a general in the Korean independence army, as he and fellow independence activists, including 우덕순 (Park Jung-min), 김상현 (Jo Woo-jin), 최재형 (Yoo Jae-myung), 이창섭 (Lee Dong-wook), and 공부인 (Jeon Yeo-bin), plot to assassinate Ito Hirobumi (Lily Franky).

The film's release coincided with a state of emergency and political turmoil, resonating deeply with audiences and enhancing its thematic relevance. This has contributed to its success not only domestically but also in international markets.

'하얼빈' has achieved global sales across 117 countries, including the United States, Japan, France, Taiwan, Australia, and Spain. It premiered in the U.S. and Singapore on December 25, followed by an expanded release in the U.S. on January 3, with additional openings scheduled in Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, and Taiwan throughout January. The film is expected to spread the message of '까레아 우라' (Korean for 'Long Live Korean Independence') worldwide.

A representative from CJ ENM's international distribution noted that the anticipation for Woo Min-ho's new project, along with the star power of actors like Hyun Bin, and its recognition at prestigious film festivals such as the Toronto International Film Festival, have made it appealing to international buyers.

On January 11, '하얼빈' surpassed the 4 million mark, maintaining its position as the number one film at the box office for 19 consecutive days and leading in ticket reservations for 28 days. It has emerged as the first major hit of 2025.

Additionally, '하얼빈' has secured a spot in the top five highest-grossing Korean films of 2024, alongside titles like '파묘' (Burial), '범죄도시4' (The Outlaws 4), '베테랑2' (Veteran 2), and '파일럿' (Pilot). With its ongoing success, it is expected to continue attracting audiences during the Lunar New Year holiday.

As '하얼빈' has reached 4 million viewers, there is growing anticipation to see if it can surpass the 5 million mark.