Story perspectives

"No Other Choice" Tops South Korea Ticket Sales Before Release

9/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

Park Chan-wook's film "No Other Choice" leads South Korea's pre-sale ticket rankings with 110,787 tickets sold by September 8.
Starring Lee Byung-hun, it depicts a laid-off worker's struggle to protect his family.
The film has been pre-sold to over 200 countries, breaking the record of "Decision to Leave."
Premiering at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, it garnered positive reviews but no awards.
"No Other Choice" releases in South Korea on September 24, 2025, while Lee Byung-hun will receive a special award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, South Korea's film industry experienced a revival, highlighted by the international success of "Oldboy," which contributed to over 100 million domestic ticket sales. This resurgence reflected a growing demand for local stories, as seen in Park Chan-wook's "No Other Choice," which addresses contemporary economic struggles, further solidifying South Korea's influence in global cinema.

1 of 2

Story summary

Park Chan-wook's film "No Other Choice" leads South Korea's pre-sale ticket rankings with 110,787 tickets sold by September 8.
Starring Lee Byung-hun, it depicts a laid-off worker's struggle to protect his family.
The film has been pre-sold to over 200 countries, breaking the record of "Decision to Leave."
Premiering at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, it garnered positive reviews but no awards.
"No Other Choice" releases in South Korea on September 24, 2025, while Lee Byung-hun will receive a special award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

1 / 2