In a move set to shake the industry, content media group NEW announced on the 4th that it has locked a five-film investment and distribution slate and is kicking off full-scale production.
The biggest headline from this lineup is a blockbuster collaboration with three of Chungmuro’s most bankable hit-makers. Teaming up with these directors, NEW aims to proactively build “super IP” designed to dominate the box office.
First up, director Jang Jae-hyun—who joined the 10-million admissions club with Exhuma—returns with his next film, Baempireu. Touted to further expand the world of Korean-style occult cinema, the project has instantly emerged as one of the industry’s most anticipated titles. Director Um Tae-hwa, who proved his exceptional craft with Concrete Utopia, is preparing a meticulously made feature titled Salgi Joeun Jip, promising dense psychological detail and maximum immersion. Adding to the excitement, director Kang Hyoung-chul—celebrated for his unrivaled mainstream touch with hits like Scandal Makers and Sunny—will inject his signature, all-ages energy into the screen with Neowa Hamkkeramyeon.
On top of that, earlier this year NEW greenlit investments in two fresh, high-concept projects and is elevating their quality in partnership with top-tier production companies.
Starring Yoon Kyung-ho and Kim Hye-yoon, High School Detective teams up with acclaimed studio SANAI Pictures and is poised to become a new four-quadrant tentpole. Meanwhile, Covenant Pictures’ Six Lying University Students—selected for the Korean Film Council’s mid-budget production support program—has assembled rising stars including Cho Yi-hyun and Kim Jae-won, hinting at a refreshing wave at the box office.
Beyond film, NEW plans to accelerate company-wide revenue growth through major supply deals with global platforms and broadcasters, including the SBS drama Good Partner 2 in the second half of the year, Netflix original Nareul Chungjeonhaejwo, and Disney+ Naega Joeinio.