'Exhuma' achieves third-highest repeat viewership record

The poster of the supernatural thriller "Exhuma" that stands out not just for its storytelling but also for its appeal across age groups. Courtesy of CGV

The supernatural thriller "Exhuma" has carved out an extraordinary niche in the Korean film industry, securing the third spot in repeat viewership among blockbusters that have surpassed the 10 million viewer threshold.

Between its debut on Feb. 22 and April 8, "Exhuma" witnessed an impressive 2.1 percent of its audience returning to the cinema for three or more viewings. This rate was surpassed only by "Spring in Seoul" and "Masquerade" at 3 percent, and "The Outlaws 2" at 2.7 percent, according to statistics from CGV.

This resurgence of interest is particularly remarkable given the film's focus on the less conventional theme of occultism and supernatural events.

"Exhuma" draws its audience deeper into the narrative by weaving in historical tales, such as the alleged placement of iron stakes across mountains during Japan's colonial occupation to cut off Korea's spiritual energy — an aspect of history that might be unfamiliar to the younger generation. These historical nuances have significantly contributed to the film's allure, offering multiple layers for interpretation and engagement.

Furthermore, an additional 5.1 percent of the audience felt compelled to watch the film twice, contributing to a total segment of repeat viewers amounting to 7.2 percent.

Lee Jin-soo, 32, who has watched the film twice, said, "The first time I watched the movie, I missed some of the anti-Japanese messages and cinematic codes, so I wanted to revisit them. Unlike typical occult films, this one didn't just rely on shock. It used local elements to create a unique sense of horror, leaving an impression that drew me back for another viewing."

A viewer displays tickets to showcase multiple viewings of 'Exhuma.'/ Captured from X

Resonating across generations

This statistic indicates that roughly seven out of every 100 viewers felt drawn to revisit the movie's rich narrative and aesthetic presentation. In contrast, "Parasite," celebrated for its visual depiction of societal divisions and winner of the Academy Award for Best Picture, saw only 1.3 percent of its viewers returning for three or more viewings.

The film, which has been exported to 133 countries, explores the eerie premise of grave desecration set against the backdrop of Japan's colonial rule over Korea.

"Exhuma" stands out not just for its storytelling but also for its appeal across age groups, with a significant following among viewers in their 20s and 30s. Its international success is exemplified by its performance in Vietnam and Indonesia.

In Vietnam, the film attracted 2.23 million viewers just two weeks after its release, surpassing the record previously held by "The Admiral: Roaring Currents." In Indonesia, it eclipsed 2 million viewers, dethroning "Parasite" to become the top-grossing Korean film in the country.

Helmed by Jang Jae-hyun, "Exhuma" has dominated the Korean weekend box office for seven straight weeks following its debut, drawing in 11.4 million viewers as of April 9. The film features a star-studded cast including Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, and Lee Do-hyun.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, was translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.