English-language Cinema in Seoul

Information on where and how to find full listings of what's on at the movies today, and in the near future. Where to find out what's showing in Seoul and how to book a seat at the cinema...

Seoul has large cinema chains and multiplexes (CGV, Megabox, Lotte Cinema) and small independent movie houses with one or two screens. The majority of cinemas in Seoul are located in modern multi-screen complexes with up-to-date technology, digital sound, I-max or 3D. Large cinema complexes can be found in most shopping malls. The majority of cinemas change their movie schedules and release new films on Thursdays, although there may be exceptions.

Most movies are shown in their original language with Korean subtitles; unless stated otherwise it can be presumed that a film will be shown in its original language. Children's films may be either dubbed into Korean or shown in the original language with Korean subtitles. Cinema listings may indicate how a foreign-language film will be screened in the following ways:

  • ??: dubbed
  • ??: with subtitles

A film's original language and other details can be checked with the Internet Movie Database, a complete film resource with information on the director, actors, reviews and awards.

Tickets

Some of the main cinema chains in Seoul include Lotte Cinema, Megabox and CGV. Tickets for films at the larger cinema chains can be bought online, and it is advisable to do so before going to the cinema, as screenings sell out quickly for popular films. However, the websites are in Korean only, and it may be necessary to have a Korean ID number in order to book online.

BookinBooks also provides a service to book movie tickets online in English.

Movie Listings

Useful resources for finding films and booking in English in South Korea include:

Non-Korean speakers can also call the Tourism and Translation Service for movie schedules and cinema locations:

  • Tel: 1330

For a comprehensive list of cinemas showing films in English and their website links see The Business Directory: Movies, Cinemas & Films.

Film Festivals in Korea

Film festivals are popular in South Korea and include the famous Busan International Film Festival. However, there are also a number of special-interest films festivals in Korea which include: