Boss tops the Korean box office with a fresh gangster comedy. Jo Woojin Jung Kyungho Park Jihwan and Lee Kyuhyung star. Fans celebrate its record breaking Chuseok success.
This year’s long Chuseok holiday was filled with laughter. The action comedy film Boss, starring Jo Woojin, Jung Kyungho, Park Jihwan, and Lee Kyuhyung, shot straight to the top of the Korean box office. With a fresh concept about a gangster who doesn’t want to be the boss and a mix of witty comedy, the movie has become a must-watch for families during the holiday.
Boss tells the story of three candidates competing for the position of gang leader: Soon Tae, who actually dreams of opening a Chinese restaurant; Kang Pyo, known for his unexpected tango dancing skills; and Pan Ho, who desperately wants to be the boss but is seen as incapable. Chaos begins when the police disguise themselves as food delivery men, turning their power struggle into a series of hilarious and light-hearted action scenes. This unique storyline brings humor that viewers of all ages can enjoy.
BOSS cast | Instagram @hanbok89
Release and Box Office Achievements
Boss had its premiere at the Busan International Film Festival on September 18, 2025, and officially hit Korean theaters on October 3, 2025, just in time for the Chuseok holiday. According to the Korean Film Council (KOBIS), the movie broke records with 238,895 admissions on its first day. By October 5, 2025, the total number of moviegoers had reached 671,817 with a gross revenue of about 6.5 billion won (around USD $4.6 million).
Variety reported that over its opening weekend (October 3–5), Boss earned USD $4.6 million from 666,679 tickets and dominated 31.5% of total ticket sales across 1,168 screens. This put it far ahead of competitors like Park Chanwook’s action film No Other Choice (USD $3.3 million), anime Chainsaw Man (USD $3 million), Kimetsu no Yaiba: Infinity Castle (USD $970,000), and the newly released One Battle After Another (USD $690,000).
“As of 6 October (KST) BOSS already reached 671k admissions 😭😭😭”
“But the KNY clowns said it was failing 😭😭”
Boss also set a record as the highest October opening for a Korean film since the pandemic. Local entertainment media noted that this success was fueled by the Chuseok holiday momentum combined with the film’s refreshing mix of comedy and action.
Jung Kyungho via X @jkhindonesia | © Newsen
Creative Promotion and Fan Reactions
The success of Boss isn’t just about numbers; it’s also the result of smart promotional strategies. Produced by Hive Media Corp and distributed by Mindmark, the movie was released during the long holiday to attract families looking for light entertainment. On October 5, director Ra Heechan and the main cast greeted audiences at theaters dressed in hanbok designed by Park Sulnyeo. Park shared that she wanted to “spread the beauty of traditional Korean attire” and felt proud that her creations were used to promote the film. The actors’ colorful and character-matching looks, paired with their warm Chuseok greetings on stage, created a joyful and memorable atmosphere.
"His eyes look so red :( Hope he gets some rest! Please take care and don’t get sick! 😭💔"
Many fans expressed concern for the actors’ health amid their busy promotional schedule, especially for Jung Kyungho, who appeared tired during the event.
Several key reasons contributed to why Boss resonated with audiences:
- A fresh and funny story – A gangster reluctant to become the boss, wrapped in humor appealing to all generations.
- Perfect release timing – Launched during the Chuseok holiday, when families seek light and entertaining films.
- Strong cast chemistry – Jo Woojin, Jung Kyungho, Park Jihwan, and Lee Kyuhyung shine with natural comedic charm.
- Smart, audience-friendly promotion – A fan event with the cast wearing hanbok became a social media highlight.
With ticket sales still climbing and a noticeable trend of repeat viewers, Boss is expected to be one of the highest-grossing Korean films of October 2025. Those who haven’t seen it yet are encouraged to catch it in theaters for a mix of laughter, action, and heartwarming moments.
Sources: Sports Today, WowKorea, PressBee, en.wikipedia
It warms my heart to see traditional attire in such a joyful event. So elegant!
Now that’s a plot I can get behind. Sounds more interesting than my last pub quiz. Might have to check this one out!
