The interest in animation among Korean audiences is intense. With countless fans of Disney and Pixar animations, as well as of directors like Hayao Miyazaki and Makoto Shinkai, it’s curious why Korea, despite its globally recognized content in dramas and films and the popularity of its comics, has yet to produce a true master in animation.
Disney and Pixar have long cultivated a large fanbase in Korea. “Inside Out 2” surpassed 7 million viewers within 28 days of its release.
“Elemental” ranked third in the 2023 yearly box office, following “12.12: The Day” and “The Roundup: No Way Out.”
Esteemed directors like Hayao Miyazaki and Makoto Shinkai also have a substantial following in Korea. Miyazaki’s “The Boy and the 추천 Heron” attracted more than 2 million viewers without even holding a press screening last year. Shinkai’s “Suzume” ranked fourth in the 2023 yearly box office.
Considering the fervent interest in animation among Korean audiences, it’s surprising that a true maestro has yet to emerge from Korea.
This isn’t due to a lack of storytelling ability. Korean creators have repeatedly demonstrated their prowess.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk’s “Squid Game” (2021) achieved worldwide popularity, and Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite” (2019) made history with four Oscar wins. Director Park Chan-wook, nicknamed “Director Cannes,” is beloved by the Cannes Film Festival.
