Once upon a time it was us
Cast: Moon Ga Young, Koo Kyo Hwan
The film follows Eun Ho and Jeong Won, who were deeply in love during their college years but separated due to circumstances and personal choices. Almost a decade later, no longer the same people as once gathered together by chance, but adults shaped by time and experience.
The story centers on the conversations they never had and the lingering “What if…” questions, which ultimately lead to a bittersweet realization: not all love can go back to its beginning.
One of the film’s strengths are its emotionally nuanced performances, particularly those of Moon Ga Young, who convincingly portrays the inner turmoil of a woman torn between past and present. The script feels grounded and relatable to a mature audience, while the wintry atmosphere and evocative soundtrack deepen the sense of solitude and reflection.
The film ranked among South Korea’s highest-grossing films of 2025, breaking even in just 13 days and even surpassing Hollywood blockbusters to claim the top spot at the weekend box office. It sold 2.52 million tickets, earning approximately $17 million, with a single weekend attracting 340,000 moviegoers (approximately $2.3 million).
However, its slow pace and lack of dramatic climaxes may not appeal to viewers who prefer clear, tightly wrapped endings.
Heartman: Rock and love
Cast: Kwon Sang Woo, Moon Chae Won
This romantic comedy revolves around a former rock singer who now leads a quiet life running a musical instrument shop. His world changes when he reconnects with a woman who once made him want to transform his life. Yet the wounds of the past, family ties and the fear of getting hurt force him to choose between safety and love.
As one of the first major romantic comedies of 2026, the film achieved a Golden Egg CGV rating of 90% in South Korea, reflecting high audience satisfaction. It also marks Kwon Sang Woo’s return to the romance genre long considered one of his strengths.
Released nationwide on January 14, 2026, the film sold approximately 182,000 tickets during its first week.
Its strengths lie in its easy-to-watch narrative, uplifting tone, and star power. However, its familiar plot might explain why its initial box office performance didn’t explode.
Even if this love disappears from the world tonight
Cast: Choo Young Woo, Shin Si Ah
Premiering in South Korea on December 24, 2025, just in time for Christmas, the film was subsequently licensed and released on Netflix starting February 4. The story centers on a girl who suffers from short-term memory loss, whose memories disappear after every night of sleep. A young man chooses to love her despite knowing he may have to start over every single day.
Adapted from a bestselling novel, the film went viral on social media thanks to its “falling in love every day” concept.
It grossed approximately $5.7 million at the box office.
The film’s greatest strength is its emotional depth: it is undeniably moving and tear-jerking. However, its heavy and melancholic tone may seem psychologically intense to some viewers.
The world of love
Cast: Go Min Si, Jang Hye Jin
This coming-of-age romance tells the story of a 17-year-old girl experiencing her first love, friendship and personal crisis. More than just a love story, the film explores youth, growth and how young people face the world.
Critically praised for its realistic screenplay and emotional intensity, the film performed well despite limited screenings. It attracted over 30,000 viewers in just five days, an impressive feat for an independent release, and grossed approximately $1.3 million worldwide (South Korea and China).
While the film stands out for its authenticity and artistic value, its slower pace and limited commercial appeal may not resonate with mainstream audiences.
Sources: Ngoisao
