This year’s Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) theater scene is set to captivate audiences with a wide array of emotionally resonant Korean films that appeal to all generations. Among them, the remake of *Intern*, starring Choi Min-sik and Han So-hee, is undoubtedly generating the most buzz, with its release scheduled for September 16. I still remember sharing my excitement with a colleague while looking at a subway station billboard on my way home from work recently; it already feels like I can picture the bustling atmosphere of the theaters during the holiday break. By blending the solid foundation of the Hollywood original with a delicate portrayal of Korea’s unique workplace culture, the film promises to offer laughter and comfort that anyone can relate to. In this post, we will take a detailed look at the release information for *Intern* and explore the other major titles set to shake up the holiday box office. I hope this serves as a useful guide for those planning a movie outing to find a small respite from their tiring daily lives.
=
Intern: Choi Min-sik & Han So-hee Movie – Chuseok Theater Release Info & Viewing Highlights
1. A Cross-Generational Workplace Adaptation
The film *Intern* follows Ki-ho, who has dedicated his career to a single company, as he retires and takes on a new job as a silver intern at a fashion company. The story captures the process of adjustment and the humorous mishaps that ensue when a middle-aged man, who has spent his life in a conservative environment, enters a trendy startup filled with young employees. While preserving the warm sentiment of the original work, the film realistically adapts elements specific to Korean corporate culture, such as the “gap-ji” (abuse of power) and the struggles of hierarchical relationships, thereby enhancing audience immersion. Ki-ho, played by the veteran actor Choi Min-sik, whose performance exudes the wisdom of age, evokes memories of fathers or senior colleagues in our own lives, creating a deep sense of familiarity.
The chemistry between Ki-ho and the character played by Han So-hee, who portrays a third-year CEO leading the company at a young age, is arguably the most important reason not to miss this film. Initially, the two are uncomfortable with each other due to a severe generational gap and clashing values. However, over time, they evolve into partners who heal each other’s wounds and fill in each other’s gaps. Their wise handling of the small and large conflicts at work offers a heartwarming emotion perfect for a whole family to enjoy together this Chuseok. With realistic dialogue and situations that any office worker can relate to, viewers will experience both pleasant laughter and touching comfort throughout the runtime.
*Intern*, featuring the fresh combination of actors Choi Min-sik and Han So-hee, depicts true communication and growth that goes beyond generational conflicts.
2. A Rich Chuseok Theater Lineup
During this Chuseok holiday, in addition to *Intern*, various Korean films across different genres are expected to engage in fierce box office competition, catering to diverse audience tastes. *The Assassins*, starring Yoo Hae-jin, is a tense mystery thriller set against the backdrop of a turbulent period in modern Korean history, delving into the truth behind an assassination attempt on the First Lady. Based on a real historical event, it promises an immersive experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, stimulating their detective instincts.
*Tazza: The Longest Night* (or *Tazza: The Devil’s Song*, depending on the specific translation of the subtitle, but usually *Tazza* series), the finale of the beloved crime action series, also joins the holiday battle, showcasing a strong presence. By faithfully recreating the gripping tension and sharp character portrayals characteristic of the original manga, it is expected to quench the long-standing thirst of series fans. With a wide range of titles, from comedies to thrillers and crime action films, each offering its own unique charm, audiences will enjoy the pleasure of choosing a movie that suits their individual preferences.
With competing titles from various genres such as *The Assassins* and *Tazza: The Devil’s Song*, this Chuseok theater scene is set to be hotter than ever.
3. The Impact of Director Lee Chang-dong’s New Work
The most powerful variable and dark horse likely to shake up the box office landscape this Chuseok is undoubtedly the new film *Possible Love* by the master director Lee Chang-dong. The casting of top-tier actors representing the Korean film industry, including Seo Kyung-gu, Jeon Do-yeon, Jo Yeo-jeong, and Jo In-sung, generated massive buzz from the production stage. The film has already been invited to the prestigious Venice Film Festival, where it received enthusiastic praise from local critics and audiences, proving its artistic merit on a global scale.
Going beyond the scope of a simple holiday entertainment film, it offers a heavy message that deeply examines the underbelly of our society and delves into inherent human emotions. This balance of artistry and popularity, which leaves a deep resonance behind light laughter, is expected to have a significant impact on the overall box office landscape, extending from the holiday break through the end of the year. Audiences are expected to leave the theater not just as consumers, but having deeply empathized with the philosophical questions the film poses.
Director Lee Chang-dong