D-8 Ticket Sales Open for Director Lee Myeong-se as ‘RAN 12.3’ Hits Theaters! Record of 300+ People, 15,000+ Backers!

Our film ‘RAN 12.3,’ made with on-site records from over 300 people and approximately 15,000 supporters, opens ticket sales today, April 14 (Tue). In response to President Yoon Suk-yeol’s sudden declaration of emergency martial law on December 3, 2024, ‘RAN 12.3’—a cinematic documentary by Director Lee Myeong-se that captures the gripping on-the-ground records of those who stepped forward to protect democracy—has been drawing intense attention even before its release. The true power of this highly anticipated theatrical release in April is that the intense records of citizens of the Republic of Korea and their steadfast participation were woven together into a single, completed work.

‘RAN 12.3’ was produced based on vivid materials provided by more than 300 people, including citizens, lawmakers, and aides. Through unprecedented archiving—video and photos contributed by 283 citizens, records from 65 lawmakers’ offices, on-site reporting, and online materials—the film depicts the emergency martial law incident from multiple angles. The fragmented materials have been reimagined with fresh visuals and a new grammar, reborn sensorially through the hands of cinematic filmmaker Director Lee Myeong-se, and will bring audiences back to the tense and fierce atmosphere of that day. In addition, the crowdfunding campaign, joined by about 15,000 backers, reached 110% of its target amount, proving strong expectations even before the film’s release.

Especially, during last weekend’s (11th) pre-release online screening for backers, intense praise poured in from those who got to see the film before its official debut, igniting the buzz and fueling word of mouth. Viewers praised the cinematic level of completion that breaks away from the usual mold of documentaries, saying, “The music is great, so I didn’t even need narration,” and “There’s unexpected humor, too.” They also shared heartfelt reactions and their distinctive satisfaction as active participants, such as, “I watched it with my family. It makes my heart feel so grand,” “I cried,” and “Seeing my name in the ending credits made me feel really good.” With so many people’s participation and support, ‘RAN 12.3’ is set to further solidify its presence as one of the most highly anticipated theatrical releases of April—opening in theaters on April 22.