‘Toy Story 5’ Confirmed for Release on June 17… A “Survival War” Between Smart Devices and Toys

The legendary Pixar series ‘Toy Story,’ which rewrote the history of animation around the world, is returning with its fifth installment. On the 6th, The Walt Disney Company Korea officially announced that the domestic release date for ‘Toy Story 5’ has been set for the 17th of next month.

■ Back After 7 Years… The Toys’ Biggest Crisis: “Digital Devices”

Kicking off in 1995 with the world’s first full 3D animated film, ‘Toy Story’ has long been loved by all generations, chronicling the friendship and growth of living toys like Woody and Buzz who stand by Andy and Bonnie. After ‘Toy Story 4’ in 2019, this new film arrives seven years later and shines a spotlight on the most realistic and powerful threat the toys have ever faced.

The centerpiece of this installment is the appearance of the smart tablet ‘Lily Pad.’ As children become engrossed in digital devices instead of analog toys, the story of Woody and his friends—who start losing their place—will once again remind audiences of the precious values that get forgotten amid technological advancement.

■ ‘Greta Lee’ Joins the Original Voice Cast Like Tom Hanks

The casting lineup is also impressive. Tom Hanks (as Woody), the series’ iconic figure, along with Tim Allen (as Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (as Jessie), and other original voice cast members return as they are, offering fans a wave of nostalgia. In particular, Greta Lee, a Korean-American actor who gained global attention with the 2024 film ‘Past Lives,’ will lend her voice to a new character—raising expectations among domestic fans.

The production team further adds confidence. Andrew Stanton, the master who wrote the screenplay for ‘Toy Story 4’ and directed ‘Finding Nemo’ and ‘WALL-E,’ and the promising newcomer Mackena Harris will co-direct, combining the series’ signature depth of philosophy with a fresh sense of style.

■ Could It Be a “Cheat Code” to Restore Pixar’s Pride?

The ‘Toy Story’ series has not only recorded astronomical box office earnings worldwide with its previous four films, but it has also dominated awards ceremonies for its artistic merit, symbolizing Pixar’s identity.

An industry source said, “At a time when recent generative AI and digital environments are taking over the content market, the narrative of ‘Toy Story 5,’ which addresses this head-on, is very timely,” adding, “As the prior films showed a perfect ending, attention is drawn to what kind of new emotion this fifth installment will bring to carry the series’ vitality forward.”

A new miracle delivered by the toys from our memories, ‘Toy Story 5’ will be coming to theaters across the country on June 17.