Overview of the Global Film Industry
The film industry is widely regarded as one of the most important creative industries across the world. In Korea, the film sector continues to produce a wide range of films each year, yet it has recently faced structural disruption.
Over the past few years, the industry has experienced unprecedented disruption, largely driven by the COVID-19 aftermath. By September 2025, Korean movie attendance had fallen drastically, reaching only a fraction of pre-pandemic figures. As a result, the industry now stands at a strategic crossroads.
Key Trends Restructuring the Film Industry
One of the most widely discussed trends in today’s film industry is the rapid expansion of OTT platforms. Services such as Netflix, Watcha, and TVING have changed audience expectations.
Audiences increasingly prefer on-demand consumption over traditional theater visits. This shift presents filmmakers with new challenges, while simultaneously opening up new opportunities.
The Role of OTT Platforms
The rise of OTT platforms has introduced a range of industry benefits. Content production now spans a broader variety of genres, formats, and storytelling styles.
Additionally, global distribution has become far more accessible, allowing Korean films to reach overseas markets with greater ease. This has contributed to the qualitative growth of Korean cinema.
Audience Decline and Key Causes
The decline in theater attendance can be attributed to multiple factors. Pandemic-related capacity limitations significantly reduced FilmIndustry cinema accessibility. At the same time, OTT platforms encouraged audiences to adopt streaming-oriented behavior.
These shifts are restructuring the industry, forcing creators to pursue innovative strategies.
The Globalization of Korean Cinema
Korean cinema has emerged as a world-class cultural force. Films such as Parasite achieved industry milestones, elevating Korea’s status within the global film market.
This globalization enables filmmakers to explore cross-cultural narratives, enriching content through the integration of diverse perspectives.
Changes in Film Distribution
Traditional theatrical releases are no longer the sole distribution model. Instead, OTT-based releases are becoming increasingly common.
This evolution offers creators expanded creative control, while audiences benefit from enhanced accessibility.
Future Outlook and Forward-Looking Responses
The future of the film industry is expected to be increasingly competitive. As audience preferences continue to evolve, creators must focus on content differentiation.
Simultaneously, strengthening the global presence of Korean cinema will remain essential for maintaining market relevance.
Conclusion
The Korean film industry is actively seeking future-ready strategies amid ongoing transformation. The success of this evolution ultimately depends on the ability to meet audience expectations.
Beyond box office figures, these changes are exerting a long-term influence on society as a whole. Observing and adapting to these trends will be critical as the industry continues to evolve.