In a remarkable feat that has electrified the South Korean film industry, the historical drama 왕과 사는 남자 (The Man Who Lives With the King) has surpassed four million cumulative viewers just 15 days after its release—a milestone that not only cements its status as 2026’s box office juggernaut, but also sets a new pace for period films in the country.
According to data released by the Korean Film Council’s box office information network on February 18, 2026, The Man Who Lives With the King soared past the four million mark on its fifteenth day in theaters. This achievement comes hot on the heels of the film’s previous milestone: just a day earlier, on February 17, the movie had already broken through the three million viewer barrier, as reported by Showbox, the film’s distributor. The rapid surge—one million new viewers in just 24 hours—has been nothing short of astonishing for industry watchers and fans alike.
Set against the evocative backdrop of Cheongryeongpo in the year 1457, the film tells the intertwined stories of a village chief who voluntarily chooses exile for the prosperity of his community and a dethroned, young King Danjong, who is himself banished to the same remote locale after losing the throne. Crafted by director Jang Hang-jun, the movie weaves together themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and unlikely friendship, offering fresh insight into a well-known chapter of Korean history.
The cast has played no small part in the film’s runaway success. Veteran actor Yoo Hae-jin takes on the role of the self-sacrificing village chief, delivering what many critics have described as a career-defining performance. Park Ji-hoon, formerly of the idol group Wanna One, steps into the shoes of the tragic young King Danjong, earning widespread praise for his emotional depth and nuanced portrayal. Rounding out the ensemble are Yoo Ji-tae as the powerful official Han Myeong-hoe, musical theater star Jeon Mi-do in her first historical film as the court lady Maehwa, Lee Joon-hyuk as Geumseong Daegun, and Park Ji-hwan as the governor of Yeongwol.
The film’s momentum at the box office has been relentless. For six consecutive days, The Man Who Lives With the King has held the top spot in daily ticket sales, a streak that included the highly competitive Lunar New Year holiday period—a time when families traditionally flock to cinemas across the country. The movie’s performance during this critical season has only further solidified its reputation as the must-see film of 2026.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is the speed at which the film has reached its milestones. As reported by BizEnter and KBS, The Man Who Lives With the King reached the four million viewer mark faster than two of its most notable predecessors. The historical epic 왕의 남자 (The King and the Clown), which became the first period drama in Korean cinema to draw over ten million viewers, reached four million on its seventeenth day. Similarly, 좀비딸 (Zombiedaughter), the top-grossing Korean film of 2025, also hit the four million mark on its seventeenth day. In contrast, Jang Hang-jun’s latest film did it in just fifteen—two days quicker, an impressive feat in today’s crowded theatrical landscape.
The film’s critical reception has matched its commercial fortunes. Audiences and reviewers have showered praise on both the storytelling and the performances. One viewer remarked, “The acting is superb, the narrative is compelling, and everything just feels perfect.” Another chimed in, “Yoo Hae-jin’s performance is, as always, outstanding, and Park Ji-hoon delivers the role of a lifetime.” The chemistry between the leads and the ensemble’s powerful dynamic have been repeatedly cited as reasons for the film’s broad appeal.
Adding to the film’s cultural cachet, President Lee Jae-myung and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung attended a screening at Yongsan CGV theater on Lunar New Year’s Day, February 14, 2026. According to Sports Chosun, the president took to the social media platform X before the screening, posting, “The power of Korean culture! We’re here to watch a movie. Where and what we’re watching is a secret for now.” After the screening, the presidential office confirmed both the film and the location, sparking further public interest and conversation around the movie.
For those unfamiliar with the historical context, the film revisits the story of King Danjong, a child monarch dethroned and exiled in the mid-15th century—a tale that has long resonated with the Korean public. By focusing on the relationship between the exiled king and the village chief, the movie offers a new emotional lens through which to view familiar events, emphasizing themes of resilience, community, and the search for redemption in times of adversity.
Director Jang Hang-jun, well-known for his narrative prowess, brings a deft touch to the film’s pacing and character development. His ability to blend historical authenticity with modern storytelling sensibilities has drawn accolades from both fans and critics. The film’s distributor, Showbox, has been quick to highlight the movie’s achievements, noting its record-breaking speed and continued dominance at the box office.
As of now, The Man Who Lives With the King continues to be screened in theaters across South Korea, attracting audiences eager to witness what many are calling the definitive historical drama of the year. Its impressive trajectory suggests that even greater milestones may be on the horizon, as word-of-mouth and critical acclaim fuel ongoing public interest.
With its compelling narrative, standout performances, and record-setting box office run, The Man Who Lives With the King has not only captured the hearts of millions but also set a new benchmark for historical films in Korea. The story of a dethroned king and a selfless village chief, once relegated to the annals of history, now finds vibrant new life on the silver screen—reminding audiences of the enduring power of storytelling and the collective strength of cultural heritage.