[Edaily Reporter Son Eui-Yeon ] Director Na Hong-jin’s film “Hope” surpassed 2 million viewers on the 19th, its fifth day in theaters.

According to the Korean Film Council’s Integrated Computer Network on the 19th, “Hope” recorded 2,001,469 viewers around 1:00 p.m. that day.

This sets a new record for the fastest achievement this year, surpassing the pace of *Gunchye*, which crossed the 2 million mark on the evening of its fifth day in theaters. Following its breakthrough of 1 million viewers in just three days—already surpassing the 2026 record—*Hope* went on to exceed 2 million viewers over its opening weekend.

Analysts attribute this to the film’s diverse appeal generating word-of-mouth buzz among audiences. Scenes that blend humor with intense suspense are receiving positive reactions. Moments such as the argument between “Beom-seok” and “Nak-yeon” as they search the town together, and the scene where “Ha-sul” recounts his eyewitness account, ease the tension and elicit unexpected laughter from the audience.

The mise-en-scène, captured by cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo through the active use of natural light, and the original action sequences unfolding within it are also highlights. The detailed art direction—which transforms diverse locations ranging from Romania to Haenam, Jeju Island, and Hapcheon into a single space called Hopo Port—doubles the audience’s immersion in the film.

Unlike conventional films that typically feature creatures at night or in dark spaces, this film has received praise for the overwhelming impact created by the creature’s appearance in broad daylight.

The actors’ all-out, no-holds-barred performances are also drawing attention. From Hwang Jung-min’s high-speed action sequences as “Beom-seok,” who drives the early part of the film, to Jo In-sung’s horseback action and chase scenes as “Seong-gi,” these moments are the talk of the town among audiences. In particular, Jeong Ho-yeon obtained a Class 1 driver’s license immediately after being cast for the car chase scenes and, after training in drifting and J-turns, personally performed the car chase action sequences in the film.

Interest is also focused on the ending, which invites a variety of interpretations. From the meaning behind the aliens’ dialogue to the characters’ backstories, relationships, and what happens next, viewers are offering a wide range of interpretations.

“Hope,” director Na Hong-jin’s new film released about 10 years after “The Wailing,” is a sci-fi action thriller set in Hopo Port near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that depicts the struggle of people who encounter an unidentified entity. The film has garnered significant attention for its star-studded cast, which includes Korean actors Hwang Jung-min, Jo In-sung, and Jung Ho-yeon, alongside international stars such as Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, and Taylor Russell.