[Edaily Starin Choi Hee-jae Reporter] It’s time to let go of the preconception that this is just an animation for children. For kids, it’s a thrilling adventure they can’t take their eyes off of; for adults, it’s a deeply moving drama that tugs at the heartstrings. It’s especially recommended for moms who might be tempted to call their daughters “naughty.”

“Hatchuping: The Legend of the Whale Gem” (Hatchuping 2) is a fantasy animated film depicting the miraculous adventure of Romi and Hatchuping as they set out to rescue Romi’s mother, who has vanished into the sea. With a whopping four years of meticulous work poured into everything from preparation to production, the film greets audiences with a level of polish that fills the screen.
“Now I see why everyone keeps saying ‘Hachuping, Hachuping,’” you’ll find yourself exclaiming. It shatters the stereotype that animation is only for children. The refreshing and vast ocean world, perfectly suited to the summer season, captivates viewers from the very start of the 105-minute runtime. The dazzling and majestic visuals, along with sequences reminiscent of a musical, delight both the eyes and ears.

The narrative is so robust that it cannot be fully captured by a single word like “coming-of-age.” It intricately weaves together the protagonist Romi’s journey to find her dreams, her collaboration with friends, a perilous quest to save her mother, and a story of great love.
The story, which sparks the imagination, the dazzling and majestic visuals, and the OST that supports them all double the film’s appeal. From performances reminiscent of a musical to the characters’ action sequences (?), there’s plenty to see.

The new characters also steal the spotlight. Kite, a new character who garnered attention for his “good looks” even before the film’s release, drives the story forward. The sight of the adorable TiniPings—including HachuPing, ChallangPing, BangulPing, and SoraPing—is enough to bring a smile to your face.
The highlight of the film is undoubtedly the emotional intensity that builds in the latter half. The heartfelt OST, featuring singer Baek Ji-young and actress Jung Ji-so, adds depth to the story of maternal love between Romi and her mother. In addition to Baek Ji-young and Jung Ji-so, the film boasts a star-studded OST lineup including Hearts to Hearts, NCT WISH, and “Singer Again 4” runner-up Gwyn Dorado.
Director Kim Soo-hoon, who helmed the film, identified the mother-daughter relationship as the core of this sequel. “They’re different yet similar, and though they have many conflicts, they love each other deeply,” he said, adding, “I hope viewers will watch the film from that perspective.”
The decision to feature the ocean was also driven by the focus on the relationship between Romi and her mother. Director Kim explained, “The ocean is the most important and comprehensive symbol representing the mother,” adding, “I believe the ocean and whales are the perfect setting and animals to express a mother’s maternal love.”
“Hatchuping 2” is this summer’s top choice for the whole family to enjoy, regardless of age. It offers the cuteness of the Tinipings that melts viewers’ hearts, visual delight, and a touching story that tugs at the heartstrings. Directed by Kim Soo-hoon. Runtime: 105 minutes. Opens on the 5th of next month.