Historical Drama Sparks Debate Over Educational Field Trip Plan

​Courtesy of Plus M Entertainment

The historical film "12.12: The Day," depicting the 1979 military coup in South Korea, has secured its position as the year's second-highest-grossing local film, generating approximately 5.47 million ticket sales and 52.2 billion won ($39.9 million) in revenue as of Thursday.

The movie, directed by Kim Sung-soo, centers around the intense nine hours of the 1979 military coup on December 12. Major General Chun Doo-kwang, portrayed by Hwang Jung-min, leads a group of military personnel in a bid to seize power, while Capital Defense Commander Lee Tae-shin, played by Jung Woo-sung, attempts to thwart the coup. 

▲ Courtesy of Plus M Entertainment

The film's success at the box office has been accompanied by controversy after an elementary school in Seoul planned a field trip for sixth graders to watch the film, aiming to deepen their understanding of historical events. Conservative YouTubers criticized the field trip, leading to its cancellation by the school, citing the sensitivity of the subject matter.

Despite the controversy, "12.12: The Day" has resonated particularly with younger audiences, comprising over half of the total viewership. Approximately 26 percent and 30 percent of ticket buyers on the CGV cinema chain platform are in their 20s and 30s, respectively.

▲ Courtesy of Plus M EntertainmentThe film's popularity among younger viewers has sparked interest in the historical context of the 1979 military coup, with related video clips explaining the political background gaining significant traction on YouTube.

Featuring a star-studded cast, including Hwang Jung-min, Lee Sung-min, Ahn Nae-sang, and Kim Sung-kyun, the film delivers a dramatized yet compelling portrayal of a significant historical event. Hwang's meticulous transformation, enduring four hours of special effects makeup for each shoot, enhances the authenticity of his portrayal of Major General Chun Doo-kwang.

The film's art director, Jang Geun-young, drew inspiration from historical footage of Gwanghwamun Square and downtown Seoul on the morning of December 13, immediately following the military coup, shaping the visual concept of "12.12: The Day."

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Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com