South Korea showcases first movies created with generative AI tools

Two feature films with visuals generated entirely by artificial intelligence, "I'm Popo" and "Man in Hanbok," debuted in South Korean theaters on May 21, marking the country's first theatrical release of AI-generated movies. The films signal a potential shift in film production economics, as a hybrid AI horror film was produced for around $336,000, but audience reception and labor concerns remain open questions.

South Korea showcases first movies created with generative AI tools Two feature films with AI-generated visuals hit Korean theaters, signaling a production shift that could reshape how movies get made and funded Two feature films created using generative AI tools debuted in South Korean theaters on May 21, marking what appears to be the country’s first theatrical release of movies with visuals generated entirely by artificial intelligence. The films, “I’m Popo” and “Man in Hanbok,” are short by traditional feature standards, clocking in at 64 and 67 minutes respectively. What actually hit the screen “I’m Popo” is a sci-fi courtroom drama centered on a robot cop, exploring themes of AI accountability. It’s being recognized as the first full-length Korean feature to have its visuals generated entirely through generative AI tools. “Man in Hanbok,” the companion release, is adapted from a bestselling novel. South Korea isn’t starting from zero here. CJ ENM’s “Run to the West” debuted back in October 2025, relying on AI for special effects. Then in April 2026, the horror film “The House” was produced as a hybrid AI project for around $336,000. The infrastructure is already forming A dedicated Korea Artificial Intelligence Cinema Festival already exists to promote and showcase generative AI films. On the legal front, South Korea granted copyright to certain AI-generated works, including a project called “AI Suro’s Wife” back in 2023. What this means for investors If a feature-length horror film can be produced for $336,000, the economics of content creation change fundamentally. Studios currently spend tens of millions on mid-budget films. The risk side is equally real. Audience reception remains an open question. The technology proving viable and the technology proving commercially successful are two different milestones, and only the first one has been clearly reached. There’s also the labor question. The Hollywood strikes of 2023 included AI provisions as a central negotiating point. South Korea’s embrace of the technology could provoke similar friction domestically. Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy https://cryptobriefing.com/editorial-policy/ .