'Winter Sonata' Returns as a 2-Hour Film, Opens in Japan Today

The drama often called the beginning of the Korean Wave, "Winter Sonata", is back as a two-hour theatrical film for Japanese audiences.

Remastered in 4K and re-edited for cinemas, "Winter Sonata" opens in Japan today (March 6).

According to producer Pan Entertainment, a special preview event held on Feb. 26 at Shinjuku Piccadilly in Tokyo sold out immediately after tickets were released, signaling strong local buzz.

Director Yoon Seok-ho visited Japan for the event and watched the film in person. Hosted by MC Tashiro Chikayo, voice actor Tanaka Misato―who voiced Yoo-jin, originally played by Choi Ji-woo―joined as a guest. They held a talk session with local media and audiences about the film.

"Winter Sonata" is widely seen as a starting point for cultural exchange between Korea and Japan. Since its 2002 broadcast, it has remained a legendary title, continuing to rank No. 1 in preference for Korean dramas in Japan in recent years. Japanese TV and newspapers have been actively covering the film’s release, reflecting the high anticipation.

Pan Entertainment planned the film adaptation to mark the 20th anniversary of the drama’s Japan broadcast in 2023, following ongoing requests from Japanese viewers for a theatrical version.

Original series director Yoon Seok-ho took part in the entire film production to preserve the drama’s signature emotions.

Music director Lee Ji-soo―whose work spans films "Oldboy" and "Silmido" and recent series "The Silent Sea" (Netflix), "Yonder" and "Bargain" (TVING)―led orchestra-centered rearrangements to enrich the score for theaters. The entire soundtrack, including the iconic main OST "My Memory", was newly recorded with full orchestration to deliver a deeper impact.

"Winter Sonata" will be in Japanese theaters starting March 6.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)