[Kulture Issue] Novel-based hit movies "Mickey 17", "Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning" draw attention to original works

Award-winning Korean director Bong Joon-ho’s latest hit movie “Mickey 17“ and occult K-animation film “Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning“ have something in common.

Both have led to an increased interest in the original novels they are based on.

Today we want to take a closer look at this trend and the two movies in more detail with Jae Soh, Professor and filmmaker at Seoul Institute of the Arts. Hello Professor Soh!

Q1. It’s been exactly a month since Director Bong Joon-ho’s “Mickey 17“ was released here in Korea,

Q2. In Korea “Mickey 17“ has spurred sales of the original novel “Mickey7" by Edward Ashton. More than 100,000 copies have been purchased as of two weeks ago. But there are some distinct differences between the book and the film. Let’s talk about those.

Q3. Why do you think “Mickey 17” appealed to such a wide audience?

Q4. Let’s now talk about “Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning“ or “Toemarok“ which has been one of the most successful animation films lately. Ticket sales and book sales are both looking good. What’s behind its popularity?

Q5. “Toemarok“ was first published three decades ago. How has it been adapted to modern times? Also, are there any chances for season 2 to come out in the near future?

Q6. What are your thoughts on the impact resulting from the consumption of content that shares the same “universe“ as well as the positive impact that success at theaters brings to the bookstores?

Q7. Finally, what are some movies based on existing stories we can look forward to later this year?