Achieving ten million viewers in cinemas is a remarkable milestone for any film, indicating immense popularity and market appeal. While Indonesia has only one film, KKN in Penari Village (2022), reaching this achievement, South Korea boasts several films that have crossed this threshold. Interestingly, three South Korean actors made their film debuts in movies that exceeded ten million viewers. Let’s take a closer look at these fortunate actors, the reasons behind their successful debuts, and their remarkable achievements.
Kim Soo Hyun
Kim Soo Hyun gained immense popularity through the dramas Dream High (2011) and The Moon That Embraces the Sun (2012). His big-screen debut came with the comedy-action film The Thieves (2012), where he played Zampano, a professional thief. The reasons behind the film’s success include its star-studded cast, which featured senior actors like Kim Yoon Seok, Kim Hye Soo, and Jun Ji Hyun, as well as its engaging plot and high production values. Kim Soo Hyun’s performance and the ensemble cast’s chemistry drew in 12.9 million viewers. This impressive performance earned him nominations for Best New Actor at the 21st Buil Film Awards and the 33rd Blue Dragon Film Awards, where he also won the Popularity Award.
Kim Soo Hyun is known for his versatility and ability to immerse himself in diverse roles, making him one of South Korea’s most sought-after actors. His transition from television to film was seamless, showcasing his talent and appeal to a broader audience. His subsequent projects continue to garner attention, cementing his status as a leading figure in the industry.
Im Si Wan
Im Si Wan debuted in acting through the drama The Moon That Embraces the Sun (2012), playing a young Heo Yeom. He transitioned to films with The Attorney (2013), portraying Park Jin Woo, a student activist in a film based on the true story of the 1981 Burim case. The film’s success can be attributed to its compelling true story, strong performances, and its relevance to South Korean political history. This film sold over 11.37 million tickets and won several awards, including Best Film at the 50th Baeksang Arts Awards and the 35th Blue Dragon Film Awards.
Im Si Wan’s ability to convey deep emotions and his natural acting skills have made him a standout performer. His portrayal of complex characters, especially in historical and socially relevant films, resonates with audiences and critics alike. Im Si Wan continues to take on challenging roles, further establishing his reputation as a talented and dedicated actor.
Lee Do Hyun
Lee Do Hyun’s big-screen debut, Exhuma (2024), is an occult genre film where he plays Bong Gil, a tattooed shaman. The reasons for its success include its unique and gripping storyline, the strong performances of its cast, and the growing popularity of occult-themed films. Released on February 22, 2024, the film attracted 11.88 million viewers and became the best-selling South Korean film in Indonesian cinemas, with over 2.5 million tickets sold. The film won several awards at the Baeksang Arts Awards, including Best Director, Best Actress, Best New Actor, and Technical Award. Lee Do Hyun also previously won Best New Actor at the Baeksang Arts Awards 2021 for his performance in the drama 18 Again (2020).
Lee Do Hyun is recognized for his dynamic range and the intensity he brings to his roles. His background in theatre has honed his acting skills, allowing him to deliver powerful performances on screen. Lee Do Hyun’s commitment to his craft and willingness to explore diverse genres make him an exciting actor to watch in the future.
These three actors have shown exceptional talent and dedication in their performances, contributing significantly to their films’ success. The combination of compelling stories, strong casts, and high production values were key factors in attracting massive audiences. It’s fascinating to see how their debuts in such high-grossing films have set a high bar for their future projects. Who do you think will be the next actor to debut in a film that reaches ten million viewers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
