"The Man Who Lives with the King" and "Humint" are locked in a tight two-horse race as the Lunar New Year holiday box office intensifies.

According to the Korean Film Council's integrated ticketing system, "The Man Who Lives with the King" ranked No.1 on February 12, drawing 83,917 moviegoers. Its cumulative audience has reached 1,365,904.

"Humint" followed closely behind with 81,189 admissions on the same day, bringing its total to 212,817. Despite a strong opening, it ceded the top spot after just one day in first place.

A Neck-and-Neck Holiday Showdown

The gap between the two films stands at just 2,800 viewers, signaling a fierce head-to-head battle throughout the holiday period. Industry watchers expect the close competition to inject fresh momentum into theaters.

Different Genres, Distinct Appeal

"The Man Who Lives with the King," directed by Jang Hang-jun, is set around Danjong, the sixth king of the Joseon Dynasty. The film centers on a village chief who cares for the exiled former monarch. The on-screen chemistry between Park Ji-hoon and Yoo Hae-jin has drawn positive audience response.

Meanwhile, "Humint," directed by Ryoo Seung-wan, is a high-intensity action film set in Vladivostok, Russia. It portrays individuals with conflicting objectives entangled in a complex narrative. Performances by Jo In-sung and Park Jung-min have been praised as standout highlights.

With just a razor-thin difference in ticket sales, the Lunar New Year box office race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years.