Netflix’s Tokyo Showcase Spotlights Korean Animation Push

Netflix is making bold moves in the world of Korean content, as highlighted at the recent APAC showcase in Tokyo. The event shed light on the streaming giant’s upcoming projects, with a special focus on “Lost in Starlight,” Netflix’s first Korean animated feature film.

Scheduled for release in Q2, “Lost in Starlight” marks a significant milestone in Netflix’s Korean content lineup, following the success of hits like “Revelations” directed by Yeon Sang-ho. Vincent Taewon Kim, Netflix Korea’s content director, emphasized the company’s commitment to diversifying genres and enhancing quality across their seven-film slate for 2025, which includes animation, romance, thriller, sci-fi, and action.

Director Han Ji-won shared insights into the intricate five-year journey behind “Lost in Starlight,” a tale of love and longing set in a futuristic Seoul. Featuring voice performances from Kim Tae-ri and Hong Kyung, the film explores the emotional journey of an astronaut and a musician. Han’s vision for the film involved striking a balance between futuristic elements and nostalgic settings, drawing inspiration from films like “Her” and incorporating iconic locations like Euljiro.

Han expressed optimism about the global appeal of Korean animation, highlighting the country’s talented creators and storytelling prowess. The showcase also introduced upcoming projects from directors Kim Tae-joon and Namkoong Sun. Kim’s “Wall to Wall” delves into housing anxieties prevalent in Korean society, while Namkoong’s “Love Untangled” offers a youthful romance set in 1998 Busan.

With teasers for three more films closing out the year, including a spinoff from “Kill Boksoon,” a 1970s hijacking drama, and a sci-fi disaster blockbuster, Netflix is poised to continue its expansion in the Korean genre landscape. The showcase concluded with a special screening of “Lost in Starlight,” underscoring Netflix’s confidence in its Korean content offerings.

This exciting lineup of diverse and captivating films showcases Netflix’s commitment to showcasing Korean talent and storytelling on a global stage. Stay tuned for these upcoming releases that promise to captivate audiences with their unique narratives and visual storytelling.