Introduction

Moon So Ri, a revered veteran actress, film director, and screenwriter, recently opened up about the alarming decline of the Korean film industry, highlighting the unsettling reality that even established stars like herself are struggling to make ends meet.

Career Overview

In her latest endeavor, the Netflix K-Drama *When Life Gives You Tangerines*, Moon has gained considerable international fame. With an impressive career spanning over 25 years, she has an extensive filmography that includes notable works such as *Queenmaker*, *Hellbound*, *Little Forest*, and *Seoul Vibe*. However, despite her success, Moon paints a grim picture of the industry at large.

Concerns About the Film Industry

In a candid interview with Newsen, Moon expressed her thoughts on becoming a regular presence in Netflix projects, humorously referring to herself as the streaming platform's "eldest daughter." She acknowledged her happiness in securing roles on such a prominent platform but lamented the increasingly precarious nature of making a living in the traditional Korean film landscape.

The Numbers Speak

"The number of movies being made has drastically decreased," Moon said. "We're mostly seeing a few major summer and winter blockbusters or ultra-low-budget indie films. Without Netflix, I would genuinely be worried about my financial stability in this industry."

Adapting to Change

Moon went on to express her gratitude for her ongoing career, underscoring the necessity of evolving alongside the industry's rapid transformations. "The world has changed so much since I began acting in 1998,” she reflected. “Back then, we shot on film, and multiplex theaters were not as prevalent. The transition to digital and the decline of single-screen cinemas were monumental. Now, with the rise of OTT platforms, I've been fortunate to adapt, and I intend to keep evolving as an actress."

Industry Challenges

Her sentiments not only highlight her personal resilience but also shine a spotlight on a larger crisis facing the Korean film industry, which has been grappling with severe investment shortages, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. As shared by various industry insiders, this decline has led to a worrying trend: a growing number of talented actors and crew members finding it increasingly difficult to secure work.

Conclusion

Moon So Ri’s powerful insights serve as both a personal reflection and a call to action for the industry. As the fate of Korean cinema teeters on the brink, one must wonder — can the industry innovate and revive its creative spirit, or are we witnessing the twilight of a vibrant cinematic culture?