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Today in History: North Korean monster film Pulgasari premieres in Tokyo

7/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On July 4, 1986 the North Korean-produced monster film Pulgasari debuted in Tokyo, marking the widest international release of any North Korean movie. Directed by abducted filmmaker Shin Sang-ok, the co-production with Japan and China retells a Korean folklore tale of a metal-eating creature created by a blacksmith’s daughter during the Goryeo dynasty.

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Story summary

On July 4, 1986 the North Korean-produced monster film Pulgasari debuted in Tokyo, marking the widest international release of any North Korean movie. Directed by abducted filmmaker Shin Sang-ok, the co-production with Japan and China retells a Korean folklore tale of a metal-eating creature created by a blacksmith’s daughter during the Goryeo dynasty.