KJCKorea
Journal Central

The film <Pamyo>(Exhuma), released in 2024, achieved significant public success, becoming the first occult genre film to surpass 11 million viewers. Several factors contributed to this success, with the theme of familism playing a crucial role in resonating with the audience. Pamyo addresses the issue of pro Japanese collaboration within a family. The character Park Geun hyun, who was never held accountable for his pro-Japanese actions, returns as an evil spirit to torment his descendants and reveal his past transgressions. His family, who had previously benefited from condoning his misdeeds, is forced to confront the consequences, leading to a dramatic reckoning for the eldest grandchildren. In contrast, Kim Sang-deok, a figure opposed to Park Geun hyun and an external evil spirit, represents the righteous patriarch. Despite facing dire circumstances, Kim remains committed to fighting for his family’s well-being. His sacrifice not only protects his family’s daily life but also the broader community, benefiting other ordinary families. The collective victory achieved through this struggle eventually transforms the participants into a new, extended family unit. The film’s portrayal of familism, while aligning with common elements of the Korean occult genre, also presents unique distinctions.

occult, Jang Jae-hyun, <Pamyo>(Exhuma), pro-Japanese liquidation, blood relation, familism