Jang Hang Jun is opening up about the unexpected downside of his film’s massive success.
The director, who recently joined the ranks of Korea’s “10 million admissions” filmmakers, revealed that he may not receive a major box office bonus for The King’s Warden.
On March 23rd, the director appeared on VIVO TV’s mockumentary-style show “Acting Castle” alongside Lim Hyung Jun and Kim Ui Sung, where the trio chatted over drinks.
Reflecting on the film’s success, Jang Hang Jun said he’s already planning his next project. “I didn’t want to lose my original mindset just because I hit the 10 million mark,” he shared, adding that he’s developing a low-budget indie film to return to basics.
Lim Hyung Jun then brought up the film’s earnings, saying, “You must have made a lot, especially from the per-ticket bonus.” Kim Ui Sung added, “If it passed 10 million, that must be huge.”
The King’s Warden broke even at around 2.6 million viewers and has recently since surpassed 14.7 million admissions, putting it deep into profit.
In Korea, directors typically receive a per-ticket bonus—often 300 to 500 won per viewer—which could have earned Jang Hang Jun an estimated 3.5 billion to 6 billion won ($2.3 million to 4 million).
But he revealed, “That’s what everyone thinks—I didn’t set one up,” drawing stunned reactions.
“They suggested it, but I took an extra 5 to 6 million won upfront instead,” he explained.
Still, given the show’s mockumentary format, his claim may not be entirely factual.
Jang Hang Jun previously hinted at the same on another VIVO TV show, saying he only secured a small share in the film. “I didn’t expect it to turn out like this. It feels like such a missed opportunity.”
Meanwhile, producer Im Eun Jung recently said in an interview that profits for The King’s Warden will be shared. “We’re discussing ways to reward everyone involved,” she said. “It’s still in the early stages, but we want to find a way that benefits Korean cinema overall.”
>> ‘The King’s Warden’ Becomes the Highest-Grossing Korean Film of All Time
In the meantime, watch Yoo Hae Jin in The Night Owl on Amasian TV for free.S
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