Tom Cruise Returns To Korea For Mission: Impossible Finale

Hollywood star Tom Cruise is back in South Korea to promote the highly anticipated eighth installment of the "Mission: Impossible" franchise, titled "Mission: Impossible: Final Reckoning." This marks his 12th visit to the country, demonstrating his long-standing affection for its culture and people. At a press conference held on May 8, 2025, at Lotte Cinema World Tower in Songpa-gu, Seoul, Cruise expressed his admiration for Korea, stating, "This place is really amazing. Korea is a really beautiful country. It's so good to be able to come again."

The new film, which will premiere in Korea on May 17, 2025, tells the gripping story of Ethan Hunt, played by Cruise, and his IMF team as they face a dire global crisis that threatens humanity. The film has been five years in the making, and fans are eager to see how the franchise continues to evolve after nearly three decades.

Since the release of the first "Mission: Impossible" film in 1996, the series has grossed an astonishing 4.14 billion dollars (approximately 5.7 trillion won) worldwide, making it one of the most successful action franchises in cinema history. This success is largely attributed to Cruise's dedication to performing many of his own stunts, a hallmark of the series that adds authenticity and excitement to the viewing experience.

At 62 years old, Cruise remains committed to delivering thrilling action sequences without the use of a stunt double. In "Final Reckoning," audiences can expect to see him engage in extreme stunts, including body diving into the ocean and an aerial stunt where he dangles from a rotating plane at an altitude of 2,438 meters, battling winds of 225 kilometers per hour. Reflecting on this daring stunt, Cruise shared, "I imagined 'What would it be like to go up to the plane's wing?' since I was 6 years old. It was a dream come true when director Christopher McQuarrie jokingly suggested I try it out."

Director McQuarrie, who has collaborated with Cruise since the 2009 film "Operation Valkyrie," praised Cruise's dedication and talent, noting, "During the underwater filming, Cruise rehearsed outside the water and then went into the water to act based on his memory. His performance is truly remarkable."

Cruise's commitment to his craft is apparent in his approach to the film's production. He stated, "I feel a sense of privilege in experiencing the burden and responsibility of being the lead actor. Although I often get asked if extreme stunts scare me, I’ve reached a point where I don’t fear those feelings anymore." His passion for filmmaking is evident as he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in action cinema.

As the press conference unfolded, Cruise expressed gratitude for the support he has received from fans over the years. He remarked, "Making movies is a privilege, and I am thankful to the audience for their continued support. This film was made with the hope that viewers would have a lot of fun. I can say that it is the culmination of the 30-year franchise."

The "Mission: Impossible" series has become synonymous with high-octane action and intricate plots, showcasing the teamwork and camaraderie of the IMF team. With each installment, the franchise has maintained its unique spirit, striving to create more engaging and innovative content. McQuarrie emphasized the importance of character development and emotional storytelling, stating, "This film is an action movie, but the story is just as important. We wanted to ensure that the characters were well-developed and relatable to the audience."

As the franchise approaches its 30th anniversary, speculation about the future of the series is inevitable. While some rumors suggest that "Final Reckoning" may be the last film in the series, Cruise remains optimistic about continuing to create films that resonate with audiences. He commented, "I hope to apply what I've learned from this film to future projects. Every day presents a new challenge, and I am committed to facing those challenges head-on."

With its blend of breathtaking stunts, compelling storytelling, and Cruise's unwavering dedication, "Mission: Impossible: Final Reckoning" is poised to captivate audiences around the globe. The film's release in Korea on May 17 will set the stage for its North American debut on May 23, 2025. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in this iconic franchise, one thing is clear: Tom Cruise's legacy in action cinema is far from over.