Jungkook's Shoutout Sparks Flood of Memes, Parodies, and AI Content: The True Power of Word-of-Mouth for 'HOPE' Begins Now

The film "HOPE" has entered its third week since release, a period when the true power of word-of-mouth begins to show.

Released on July 15, "HOPE" surpassed 3 million moviegoers nationwide through its second week without any major direct competitors. However, starting today (July 29), it faces a head-to-head showdown with its biggest competitor, "Spider-Man: Brand New Day." While trailing behind the new release in advance ticket reservation rates and sales volume, "HOPE" aims to achieve its initial milestone of breaking even (approximately 5 million viewers) through a prolonged theatrical run.

The realistic goal is not retaining the number one spot, but rather securing a solid second place that can keep the top contender in check. The film needs to surpass 4 million viewers without falling too far behind "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," thereby building a stepping stone toward the 5 million mark. With another competitor, "Odyssey," scheduled for release next week, the box office score over the next two weeks is expected to determine its final audience numbers.

"HOPE" enjoyed an explosive box office run upon its release, and even now entering its third week, its buzz remains unmatched. Extreme polarization in audience reactions has simultaneously spawned passionate fans and critics, heating up online discourse and communities.

Following the polarization debate, viewers are now engaging in interpretive play with the film. Audiences who have watched the movie are searching for the meanings embedded by the director or focusing on contexts not explicitly shown, offering a diverse range of interpretations.

The buzz surrounding "HOPE" can also be seen in the production of memes, parodies, and AI content. Memes and parodies depicting specific scenes are drawing laughter, while AI-generated content such as a "HOPE" prequel and an interview video with the alien Bamigir are drawing admiration for their intricate detail and wit.

Recommendation videos from figures across various fields are also expected to give a major boost to word-of-mouth. BTS member JUNG KOOK posted a review on his social media story on July 27, saying, "HOPE is fun." In a subsequent live broadcast, he shared that he went to the theater alone late at night to watch "HOPE," stating, "I enjoyed it a lot. Reactions seem quite divided, though. But I watched it in 4DX and had a really great time."

He went on to describe the specific features and strengths of the film, saying, "There are so many chaotic and entertaining parts, and I found myself clenching my fists while watching the chase scenes." He added, "There may still be ARMY (fandom) members who haven't seen it yet, but the vividness and pacing are insane."

In response, director Na Hong-jin reacted immediately by reposting JUNG KOOK's social media story. Additionally, directors Bong Joon-ho, Lee Chang-dong, and Jang Jae-hyun, as well as webtoon writer Kang Full and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Whiyoung, have watched "HOPE," sharing their personal reviews and interpretations while recommending the film to audiences.

As "HOPE" enters its third week in theaters, the time has come to draw audiences in through active promotion and the power of word-of-mouth. The film's main cast and crew, including director Na Hong-jin, Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, Jung Hoyeon, and Eum Moon-suk, plan to continue communicating with moviegoers by attending stage greetings this weekend.

(Photo: Yonhap News) (SBS Entertainment News | Reporter Kim Ji-hye)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.