Director Kim Yong-gyun's Low-Budget Film Sells 281,000 Tickets, Marking First Success for Korean Indie Cinema in Five Years

Courtesy of Lotte Entertainment

In a noteworthy achievement for the Korean independent film scene, director Kim Yong-gyun's "Picnic" has surpassed its breakeven point, recording 281,000 tickets sold as of Friday. This marks a significant milestone as the first Korean indie film to achieve such success in the past five years. 

▲ “Picnic” / Courtesy of Lotte EntertainmentThe low-budget production, with a cost of approximately 1.2 billion won ($900,000), reached its breakeven point at 270,000 admissions. Since its release on February 7, "Picnic" has consistently dominated the art film box office, standing out as the first film this year to surpass this pivotal threshold.

Starring Na Moon-hee, Kim Young-ok, and Park Geun-hyung, "Picnic" revolves around the story of two best friends who return to their hometown of Namhae, South Gyeongsang Province, after 60 years. The narrative unfolds as they reminisce about their shared memories from when they were 16 years old.

The film's appeal extends beyond its heartwarming storyline, delving into weighty themes such as preparations for the end of life, death with dignity, family conflict surrounding finances, and life in a nursing home. Notably, "Picnic" has garnered attention for featuring the song "Grain of Sand," performed by popular trot singer Lim Young-woong.

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