Director Jang Hang-jun Cancels 10 Million Viewer Pledge for 'The King and the Clown'

Director Jang Hang-jun, known for his work on the film 'The King and the Clown,' has decided to cancel his pledge made for reaching 10 million viewers. Previously, Jang had promised to change his name, undergo plastic surgery, naturalize, and change his phone number if the film hit the 10 million mark.

On the 4th, a recording of SBS's 'Bae Sung-jae's Ten Wednesday Live' was released, featuring director Jang Hang-jun and film producer Jang Won-seok as guests. Jang mentioned Gangwon-do Yeongwol, the exile site of King Danjong depicted in the film, saying, "Tourism has increased ninefold compared to 2025. I've heard that there are long lines at local restaurants."

Jang also noted that more people recognize him now. "Even when I wear a mask, people recognize me, which is quite frustrating. I often take the subway, and people recognize me there too. It makes it hard to go to the cinema because people’s attention shifts," he joked.

He shared an anecdote about receiving a text from director Park Chan-wook. "He congratulated me, saying I accomplished something significant and deserved applause. It was an honor to receive such praise from him," Jang recalled. When Jang Won-seok asked if it was okay to share this story, Jang replied, "When Director Park texted me, he must have been prepared for it to be shared," eliciting laughter.

Regarding the impending 10 million viewer milestone, Jang expressed his gratitude and disbelief, saying, "My family feels the same way." He added, "I was initially disappointed with the opening day numbers, expecting around 200,000 viewers, but only 110,000 watched. It wasn't a good figure, and I thought, 'Here we go again. Who should I blame this time?' I blamed others because blaming myself was too hard."

Jang, who had previously pledged to change his name, undergo plastic surgery, naturalize, and change his phone number, commented, "I appreciate the attention, but I didn't think it would become newsworthy. I never expected the film to reach 10 million viewers." He continued, "I joked about it to bring some humor, but it became a pledge, leading the investors to hold strategy meetings."

Instead of fulfilling the pledge, Jang announced a coffee truck event. "Looking back, I'm relieved I didn't promise to give away half my fortune. It's chilling to think about. As an alternative, I'll hold a coffee truck event in a couple of weeks," he said with a smile.

Reporter Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr