[Edaily Reporter Choi Hee-jae ] The military comedy series "Rookie" is returning as a movie set in a military hospital.

Distributor KT Studio Genie announced on the 29th, “The movie ‘Rookie: The Movie’ has been confirmed for release on December 30.”

“Rookie: The Movie” tells the story of a group of rookies admitted to a military hospital dreaming of a sweet respite, who are forced to uncover its secrets after encountering terrifying rumors about the hospital they once believed to be paradise.

The “Rookie” series, which has been beloved season after season for its realistic portrayal of military life and the delightful ensemble of distinctive characters, now shifts its setting to a military hospital. “Rookie: The Movie” is set to deliver a unique blend of comedy and horror by introducing new characters, an unfamiliar setting—the military hospital—and bizarre incidents.

The first-look stills released on the 29th feature “Park Min-seok” (Kim Min-ho), “Choi Il-gu” (Nam Tae-woo), “Kang Chan-seok” (Lee Jung-hyun), “Kim Dong-woo” (Jang Seong-beom), “Im Da-hye” (Jeon Seung-hoon), “Choi Byeong-nam” (Kim Hee-soo), and “Seong Yun-mo” (Kim Hyun-kyu)—all gathered at the military hospital. The images capture the cheerful vibe of the familiar “Rookies” crew alongside the mysterious aura of the newly introduced characters, instantly drawing viewers’ attention.

First, the sight of the new recruits—dressed in hospital gowns and gathered together, all pointing in the same direction as if they’ve discovered something—hints at the unpredictable events to come at the military hospital, while also raising expectations for the unique, cheerful chemistry of a group that has worked together for a long time.

In contrast, the mysterious soldier “Yoo Jae-hoon” (Ryu Kyung-soo), gazing alone out the window, exudes a cool and somber aura that sparks curiosity about the story he is hiding.

Additionally, nursing officer “Yoo Jeong-yeon” (played by Yoo Jeong-yeon), who appears at the military hospital looking neat and composed, heightens interest in what role she will play amid the suspicious events to come. Jeong-yeon, a member of the group TWICE, makes her screen debut through *Rookie: The Movie*.

“Rookie” gained immense popularity after the release of Season 1 in 2022, leading to the production of four seasons and establishing itself as KT Studio Genie’s flagship intellectual property (IP). “Rookie: The Movie,” which continues the “Rookie” universe, is directed by Min Jin-ki, who helmed the “Rookie” series.