According to the Korean Film Council’s integrated ticketing network, Salmokji: Whispering Water has remained at No. 1 at the Korean box office for 21 consecutive days since its release on April 8. The film held the top spot every day through April 28, maintaining its position for 3 straight weeks.
The achievement marks the longest No. 1 streak among films released in 2026. It is also reportedly the second-longest box office run of the year, following the popular The King’s Warden . Salmokji: Whispering Water is a horror film about a filming crew that returns to a reservoir for a reshoot after an unidentified figure is caught during road-view filming. Once they arrive, the crew encounters an unknown presence, leading to a tense and mysterious story.
The film’s dark water setting, eerie atmosphere, and suspenseful mystery have helped it gain strong word of mouth among moviegoers. Its success is especially notable because horror films rarely maintain such long-term dominance at the box office. In April’s theatrical market, Salmokji: Whispering Water has stood out as one of the most talked-about Korean films.
The film’s momentum has reportedly grown thanks to strong support from viewers in their teens and 20s, especially after midterm exams ended. Even in its fourth week of release, audience interest remains high, raising curiosity over how much further Salmokji: Whispering Water can extend its record.
Salmokji: Whispering Water stars Kim Hye-yoon, Lee Jong-won, Kim Jun-han, Kim Young-sung, Oh Dong-min, Yoon Jae-chan, and Jang Da-ah. The film is currently playing in theaters nationwide.
Sources: Daum | 스포츠동아
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