The historical drama The Man Living with the King has officially crossed the 8 million mark, maintaining explosive box office momentum.

According to the Korean Film Council's integrated ticketing system, the film drew 655,227 moviegoers on February 28, reaching 7,667,228 admissions. By the morning of March 1, it added another 340,000 viewers, pushing its cumulative total to 8,006,236.

Racing Toward 10 Million

The film is now widely projected to join the coveted 10-million-admissions club. As of 10 a.m. on March 1, it held a dominant real-time reservation rate of 71%, with 389,125 tickets booked. Considering the substitute holiday on March 2 and expected weekday turnout, surpassing 9 million within the week appears highly likely.

To celebrate the 8 million milestone, the cast and crew released handwritten messages and commemorative photos.

Director Jang Hang-jun expressed heartfelt appreciation, stating, "I am deeply grateful to the audience. Not only I, but also the staff and actors, never imagined reaching 8 million viewers."

Lead actor Yoo Hae-jin, who plays Eom Heung-do, thanked audiences for the overwhelming love. Park Ji-hoon shared, "Thanks to your support, we achieved 8 million. I will always continue to work hard."

Yoo Ji-tae described participating in an 8-million film as a career-defining achievement. Jeon Mi-do extended special gratitude to older viewers and families who revisited theaters multiple times. Kim Min, Park Ji-hwan, Lee Joon-hyuk, and Ahn Jae-hong also shared messages of appreciation.

A Historic Tale Resonating Across Generations

Set in 1457 at Cheongnyeongpo, the film portrays the tragic fate of the young dethroned king Lee Hong-wi and places special focus on his relationship with Eom Heung-do—an angle rarely explored in Korean historical cinema.

Director Jang Hang-jun's casting choices have drawn particular praise. Park Ji-hoon's restrained yet resolute gaze shaped a dignified portrait of the young monarch, while Yoo Hae-jin's performance balanced humor and emotional depth, appealing to audiences of all ages.

The film's accessible storytelling and clear direction have broadened its appeal, attracting viewers across generations, including older audiences who traditionally visit theaters less frequently.

Park Ji-hoon, in particular, has emerged as a next-generation standout in Korean cinema, earning nationwide acclaim once again a decade after his earlier breakout popularity.

With sustained ticket sales, record reservation rates, and strong word of mouth, The Man Living with the King continues its rapid ascent toward becoming one of 2026's defining box office hits.