Stream K-Dramas at OnDemandKorea

Film Industry Seeks Higher Ticket Prices

South Korean filmmakers are lobbying for higher movie ticket prices to increase revenues as many in the industry face losses due to deep inequalities in market share. Current top level ticket prices in Seoul range from 7,000 – 8,000 won (US$7.50 to $8.60). The last major ticket price hike was in January of 2001 when top fares moved from 6,000 to 7,000 won.

With DVD piracy and illegal downloading a major issue across Asia, Korean films generate the bulk of their revenue from theatrical release. Movies with limited access to screens, short theatrical runs and inadequate marketing support struggle to turn a profit. With more than 100 films released in 2007, only 9 have so far earned back complete investment and become profitable.

The Korean Association of Film Art and Industry states that in the years 2002 to 2006, the consumer price index has risen 11.4%, however average movie ticket prices over the same period have increased by only 3.9%. Head of the association, LEE Chun-yeon said, "There has been no significant rise in ticket prices in the past seven years, so we are pushing for prices at the 10,000 won ($10.80) level".

Nigel D'Sa (KOFIC)

Advertisement

❎ Try Ad-free