This Korean Film Just Became the Highest-Grossing R-Rated Release Since the Pandemic

The R-rated Korean crime action film Yadang, produced on a budget of approximately ₩13 billion KRW (~$9 million USD), has taken the box office by storm. Since its release, the film has dominated the No.1 spot for 13 consecutive days, never giving up its lead even once.

According to the Korean Film Council's integrated ticketing system on April 29, director Hwang Byung-kook’s Yadang surpassed 1.7 million cumulative viewers as of April 28. This figure overtakes the 1.67 million admissions of Dark Nuns starring Song Hye-kyo, making Yadang the 3rd highest-grossing Korean film of 2025.

What makes this even more notable is that Yadang has now become the highest-grossing R-rated Korean film released after the COVID-19 pandemic. It attracted 1 million viewers within just 8 days of release and is now sprinting toward the 2 million mark.

The film currently holds a 9.14 viewer rating on Naver (as of April 29), highlighting the strong word-of-mouth buzz that has kept it ahead despite a wave of new releases.

Yadang tells the gripping story of a drug broker named “Yadang,” an ambitious prosecutor aiming for power, and a determined detective out to crush the drug crime network — each driven by their own motives. With a stellar cast including Kang Ha-neul (Squid Game 2), Yoo Hae-jin (Exhuma), Park Hae-joon (When Life Gives You Tangerines), Ryu Kyung-soo (Itaewon Class), and Chae Won-bin (Sweet Home), the film has earned praise for its tight plot and powerful performances.

Behind-the-scenes stills released by the production team show off the chemistry among the actors. Kang Ha-neul, holding a prop bag and goofing around, lightened the mood on set. Yoo Hae-jin was seen chatting warmly with the director, reflecting their easy rapport. Park Hae-joon’s gentle interaction with a child actor revealed a surprisingly heartwarming moment on an otherwise intense set.

Other images show Kang Ha-neul and Park Hae-joon reviewing scenes together, exuding bromance vibes, while Park Hae-joon is also seen enjoying a casual conversation with the director. Ryu Kyung-soo’s focused stare into the monitor hints at his dedication to the role, and Chae Won-bin’s playful peace sign toward the camera contrasts sharply with her intense character onscreen.

“A total dopamine rush — this is the kind of film made for theaters.”

“Kang Ha-neul’s acting was incredible! We need more crime action movies like this.”

“One of the best films I’ve seen this year. Time flew by — I was fully immersed.”

“Yoo Hae-jin never disappoints. Great story, great cast. Loved it!”

Critics and viewers alike continue to shower praise on the cast's top-tier acting and the film’s compelling story.

“The synergy between Kang Ha-neul, Yoo Hae-jin, and Park Hae-joon was perfect.”

“Some scenes were brutally intense, but the solid plot and chemistry made it worth every minute.”

“The theme was fresh, the acting was 🔥, and those two hours went by in a flash.”

Despite its R-rating and graphic depictions of drug crimes, Yadang has drawn widespread acclaim for its immersive storytelling, dynamic acting, and razor-sharp tension. Audiences are calling it one of the year’s most satisfying movie experiences — even describing it as “so good, it felt real.”

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