BTS JUNGKOOK's Shoutout Sparks Memes and AI Content for 'HOPE' as Film Enters Crucial Third Week

As the movie "HOPE" enters its third week since release, it has reached the stage where it begins to show the true power of word-of-mouth.

Having opened on July 15, "HOPE" surpassed 3 million moviegoers nationwide through its second week without any major direct competition. However, starting today (the 29th), it faces a head-to-head matchup with its biggest competitor, "Spider-Man: Brand New Day". Although it trails the new release in advance ticket reservation rates and volume, "HOPE" must establish its primary goal of surpassing the break-even point (approximately 5 million viewers) through a steady, long-run theatrical run.

The realistic goal is not holding the number one spot, but rather being a strong second place that can keep the top rank in check. It needs to surpass 4 million moviegoers without falling too far behind "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" and build a bridge toward breaking the 5 million mark. With another competitor, "Odyssey", scheduled for release next week, the box office scorecards over the next two weeks are expected to determine the final audience tally.

"HOPE" enjoyed an explosive box office run upon its release, and even now entering its third week, its buzz remains unmatched. Extreme polarized reactions have simultaneously bred ardent supporters and detractors, fueling heated online discourse in communities.

Following the debates over differing opinions, viewers are now diving deep into interpreting the film. Audiences who watched the movie are sharing diverse interpretations by searching for underlying meanings planted by the director or focusing on contexts not explicitly shown in the film.

The buzz surrounding "HOPE" is also evident through the production of memes, parodies, and AI-generated 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 structured composition and wit.

Recommendation videos from prominent figures across various fields are also expected to give a massive boost to word-of-mouth momentum. BTS member JUNGKOOK shared a review on his social media story on the 27th, writing, "HOPE is fun." During a subsequent live broadcast, he mentioned visiting a theater alone late at night to watch "HOPE," sharing his thoughts by saying, "I watched it very enjoyably. Reactions seemed quite divided though. But I watched it in 4DX and had a really great time."

He added, "There are so many hectic and fun parts, and I found myself clenching my fists while being chased in the film." He specifically detailed the film's characteristics and strengths, saying, "There are probably still some ARMY (fandom) members who haven't seen it yet, but the realism and pacing are insane."

In response, director Na Hong-jin promptly reacted 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 Hwi-young, have also watched "HOPE" and shared their personal evaluations and interpretations while recommending the film to audiences.

As "HOPE" enters its third week of release, the time has come to draw audiences into theaters through ground-level promotions and the power of word-of-mouth. The film's main cast members, including director Na Hong-jin along with Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, Jung Hoyeon, and Eum Moon-suk, are scheduled to go on stage greeting tours this weekend to communicate with moviegoers.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)