Actors Lee Jae-in and Hong Kyung have been selected as the protagonists of the upcoming apocalyptic thriller film “Concrete Market”, which will bring intense chemistry to a post-disaster survival narrative set in a devastated urban landscape.
The film, directed by Hong Ki-won, takes place in the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake that leaves much of Seoul in ruins. Within this desolate environment, a single apartment complex is the sole survivor, transforming into an unlikely marketplace where residents engage in barter to support themselves. The story centers on the emergence of tensions and power struggles among the survivors who compete for resources and dominance within this isolated community
Lee Jae-in plays Choi Hee-ro, a mysterious newcomer whose unexpected the arrival upsets the precarious balance maintained within the market. His character projects a quiet menace through a cool demeanor and composed expression, introducing an element of unpredictability that destabilizes the established order.
Hong Kyung takes on the role of Kim Tae-jin, devoted collaborator of the market leader, Park Sang-yong. The character embodies a conflicted nature, characterized by his ruthless conduct alongside deeper internal struggles, presenting layers of complexity through rebellious energy and raw emotional intensity.
The supporting cast features have been completed Together members, including Jung Man-sik as Park Sang-yong, the market leader, Yoo Su-bin as Park Chul-min (Tae-jin’s rival), Kim Guk-hee as Mi-sun, and Choi Jung-woon as Se-hee. This overall composition aims to create multifaceted dynamics within the narrow environment of the market community
“Concrete Market” began as a planned drama series comprising seven episodes, but was eventually restructured into a feature-length theatrical film. The project began filming in November 2021 and has since completed production, although its release was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other logistical factors. The decision to prioritize theatrical distribution over streaming platforms was made following initial speculation about an OTT release.
Climax Studio, the production company behind the 2023 blockbuster “Concrete Utopia,” which attracted 3.84 million viewers, returns to supervise production of “Concrete Market,” bringing considerable experience in disaster-focused storytelling. Lotte Entertainment, which previously handled the investment and distribution of “Concrete Utopia”, also supports this project
The film is scheduled to be released in theaters on December 3, while the Korea Media Rating Board is currently reviewing the proposal to determine its rating.
