Korean AI Movie The Middle World Hits #1 on Netflix After Box Office Flop

The South Korean film Jung-gan-gye has surged to the top of Netflix Korea’s movie rankings despite a theatrical failure that saw fewer than 30,000 viewers. Directed by Kang Yun-sung, the 61-minute project marks South Korea’s first feature-length film to utilize AI technology for character design and complex action sequences.

Why did a theatrical failure become a Netflix hit?

According to Netflix Korea, Jung-gan-gye recently secured the number one spot on the “Today’s TOP 10 Movies in South Korea” list. This follows a disappointing theatrical run starting October 15, where the film attracted only about 28,000 viewers.

The shift in performance is likely due to the film’s experimental nature and accessibility. A shorter 61-minute runtime and the curiosity surrounding its AI-driven production lowered the barrier for OTT viewers compared to cinema-goers.

The current Netflix Korea rankings place Jung-gan-gye first, followed by Master of the World at second, Number One at third, and The Light: The Devil Exists at fourth. Other entries include Office Romance, Are You Okay? Are You Okay, Are You Okay!, Humint, Woman of Unknown Identity, Iron Invincible, and Peninsula.

Did You Know? Director Kang Yun-sung noted that AI significantly accelerated production; a vehicle explosion scene that typically requires four to five days to complete was finished in just one to two hours using AI.

How was AI utilized in the production of Jung-gan-gye?

Director Kang Yun-sung, known for The Outlaws and the drama Casino, partnered with AI director Kwon Han-seul to integrate artificial intelligence into the filmmaking process. The production utilized AI to create 16 different types of characters, including grim reapers and creatures.

The technical workflow involved AI-driven character design and action sequences, such as building collapses and explosions in Gwanghwamun Plaza. Visual effects (VFX) were then used to supplement and polish areas where AI could not achieve the desired result.

Kang stated that while AI technology was underdeveloped during the pre-production phase in March, it evolved rapidly during filming. He emphasized that AI serves as a tool to replace or supplement CG technology, rather than replacing human actors.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter observes that the disparity between the film’s theatrical and OTT performance highlights a growing trend where experimental technology is more readily consumed in a home environment. The “uncanny” texture of generative AI may be jarring on a massive cinema screen but becomes a point of curiosity on smaller devices.

What did the cast experience during the AI-driven shoot?

The film features a high-profile cast, including Byun Yo-han as NIS agent Jang-won and Kim Kang-woo as detective Min-young. Other performers include Yang Se-jong, Lee Mu-saeng, Bang Hyo-rin, and Lim Hyung-jun.

Byun Yo-han noted that AI cannot exist without human imagination. Kim Kang-woo admitted to questioning the director frequently to understand how AI filming differed from traditional CG and how to time his movements.

Lim Hyung-jun suggested that while acting remains a human domain, the speed of AI development may eventually require actors to learn new ways of collaborating with the technology. Bang Hyo-rin added that the reliance on imagination required her to deliver more delicate emotional responses.

What are the technical limitations and future implications?

Despite its current popularity on Netflix, the film faced criticism for its technical execution. Some viewers noted that AI creatures did not blend naturally with live actors, and the specific texture of generative AI appeared alien on large screens.

However, the project is significant for expanding AI use from short 20-minute clips to a 61-minute feature film. It serves as an industrial experiment in how far AI can be integrated into commercial South Korean cinema.

Future developments in the industry may see AI being used more frequently to reduce VFX costs and production timelines. It is possible that future projects will focus on improving the seamless integration of AI elements with live-action footage to avoid the “unnatural” feel noted by critics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the plot of Jung-gan-gye?
The film is an action blockbuster about four people—an NIS agent, a detective, an actress, and a PD—who become trapped in “Jung-gan-gye,” a space between life and death, and must flee from grim reapers attempting to erase their souls.

Who directed the film?
The film was directed by Kang Yun-sung, with AI direction handled by Kwon Han-seul.

How many AI characters were created for the movie?
A total of 16 types of characters, including creatures and grim reapers, were produced using AI.

Do you think AI will eventually become a standard tool for all major film productions, or will it remain a niche experimental technique?