The Korean film “Assassins” remained No. 1 at the South Korean box office on October 2, drawing 68,460 viewers and bringing its cumulative audience to 1.89 million, Newsis reported using Korean Film Council data.
The film is based on the 1974 shooting of former first lady Yuk Young-soo during an Independence Day ceremony. Its alternative interpretation of the historical event has triggered political and historical-accuracy criticism in Korea.
The controversy has led the production team to cancel scheduled promotional appearances by director Hur Jin-ho and cast members Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il and Lee Min-ho. Despite that, the film continued to lead daily admissions during the National Foundation Day holiday period.