This past February, CJ E&M unveiled a promotional 3-minute trailer of 'The Battleship Island' at the European Film Market. After the trailer was shown, the movie was sold to a total of 113 countries including: France, Italy, Russia, Turkey, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and parts of South America. The film is set during Japanese colonial rule when an estimated 400 Koreans were forcefully sent to Hashima Island to work as coal miners. The movie also follows the attempts of these miners to escape the island. 

Another key point for why the movie is gathering such public interest is the star-studded cast, which includes actors So Ji Sub and Song Joong Ki. Many have also expressed their surprise that Japan was among one of the countries to purchase the publication rights to the movie. 

Rimtech of Singapore Cloverfilm expressed, "A big factor in us deciding to purchase rights to 'The Battleship Island' was not only for its strong story plot, but also 'Descendants of the Sun' Hallyu star Song Joong Ki." Cyril Bucket of the French Metropolitan Filmexport described the film as "A war movie as well as a prison movie and an escape movie. The movie has enough factors to draw the attention of French viewers." 

In regards to the attention, Choi Yoon Hee, director of overseas distribution of CJ E&M, claimed, "Though we cannot reveal the actual monetary amount 'The Battleship Island' was sold for, this movie by far outruns the price of any other Korean movie that was sold internationally." 

Ryu Seung Wan is also renown for his directing in 'Veteran', which has received a lot of praise from viewers. 'The Battleship Island' officially premieres in July. Check out the trailer above!

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