Actress Ryu Hyun-kyung’s feature directorial debut, “Don't Go Back,” has crossed its break-even point.
The film marks Ryu’s first feature as a director―and a one-woman operation at that. She oversaw everything from development through release, wearing the hats of director, producer, distributor, and star. Instead of spending on traditional P&A, Ryu personally handled theater outreach, scheduling, and a steady slate of audience Q&As to keep the run alive.
Her hands-on approach was literal: she bundled posters herself and delivered them to theaters, crafted and handed out movie merch, and tackled on-the-ground needs as they came up. While actor-led directing is increasingly common, it’s rare to see a filmmaker single-handedly manage distribution and marketing, too.
That resourceful strategy stands out amid a challenging moment for Korea’s indie scene, where audience numbers have dipped and exhibition has grown tougher. “Don't Go Back” leaned on direct audience engagement and grassroots operations rather than paid advertising to sustain its screenings.
The post-screening conversations became an engine for word of mouth, drawing names like actors Moon So-ri, Park Jung-min, Go Ah-sung, Kim Joon-han, and Oh Jung-se, directors Yoon Ga-eun and Lee Jong-pil, musician Lee Juck, and singer Jung-in―appearances that helped build trust around the film and fueled a steady, extended run.
“This milestone isn’t about comparing results to commercial films,” Ryu said. “It’s about proving that indie films can find new, sustainable ways to operate within a changed theatrical landscape. I hope it sparks fresh energy in a market that’s been feeling timid.”
“Don't Go Back” continues to play primarily at independent theaters, with more audience Q&As on deck: Jan. 15 at Film Forum with director Jang Hang-jun and producer Jang Won-seok; Jan. 16 at CGV Yongsan with actor Gong Myoung; Jan. 17 at Gwangju Theater with actress Yum Hye-ran; Jan. 20 at Indie Space with neuroscientist Jeong Jae-seung; and Jan. 25 at Cinecube with actress Kim Hyang-gi.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)