Released during the highly competitive Lunar New Year holiday season, Dark Nuns has taken the box office by storm, captivating audiences both in South Korea and internationally. Since its debut on January 24, the occult thriller has drawn an impressive 588,501 viewers over its opening weekend and surpassed 600,000 cumulative viewers within just three days. This remarkable performance has solidified its position as a must-watch film during one of the busiest movie-going periods of the year.
The success of Dark Nuns isn’t confined to South Korea. In Indonesia, the film has broken records by attracting approximately 310,000 viewers in its first week, marking the highest opening for a Korean film in the country. It has also maintained the top spot at the Indonesian box office for three consecutive days, further cementing its international appeal and demonstrating the global fascination with Korean cinema.
What sets Dark Nuns apart from other releases is its bold and unconventional approach to storytelling. The film stars Song Hye Kyo, a beloved actress known for her iconic roles in dramas and melodramas, in a completely new light. Taking on the role of a nun battling dark forces, Song Hye Kyo delivers a gripping performance that showcases her versatility as an actress. This marks not only her first venture into the occult thriller genre but also her first film role in over a decade, generating significant buzz even before its release.

Co-starring Jeon Yeo Bin, Dark Nuns delves into the theme of exorcism in a way rarely explored in Korean cinema. The film’s fresh and innovative take on the genre has resonated with audiences, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. The chemistry between the two lead actresses, combined with the film’s intense and atmospheric storytelling, has been praised by reviewers and viewers alike.

The success of Dark Nuns reflects a broader shift in audience preferences. In an era where moviegoers are increasingly selective, box office success now hinges on positive word of mouth shared through social media and online forums. Gone are the days when big budgets and star-studded casts alone could guarantee a hit. Instead, unique storytelling, innovative concepts, and compelling performances have become the driving forces behind successful films like Dark Nuns.