What is Barunson E&A's strategy in response to the challenges facing the Korean film industry?

Barunson E&A, the studio behind "Parasite," is expanding its business into international markets and focusing on global co-production opportunities in response to rising production costs and declining film revenue in Korea.

Why is Barunson E&A particularly interested in the Indonesian market?

Barunson E&A sees Indonesia as the "fastest-growing country in the world" with "a lot of room for further growth." The company has also noted the emergence of talented new directors in Indonesia and a growing demand for diverse film genres.

What lessons did Barunson E&A and Japanese producer Kawai Shinya share about successful and failed Oscar campaigns?

Barunson E&A emphasized the importance of choosing the right overseas distributors and strategically targeting Academy members during the "Parasite" Oscar campaign. In contrast, Kawai shared his experience with the failed campaign for "Yi Yi: A One and a Two" due to technical ineligibility.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Korean Film Studio Barunson E&A Shifts Focus to Global Co-Productions

Korean Film Studio Barunson E&A Shifts Focus to Global Co-Productions

1 Nov

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Summary

Rising production costs and declining film revenue drive Korean producers to global co-productions
Barunson E&A expands into international markets like Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia
Insights on "Parasite" Oscar campaign strategy from Barunson E&A and Japanese producer

Korean Film Studio Barunson E&A Shifts Focus to Global Co-Productions

As of November 1st, 2025, Barunson E&A, the production and distribution studio behind the Oscar-winning film "Parasite," has reaffirmed that the Korean film industry is facing significant challenges. The company's CEO, Yoonhee Choi, noted that rising production costs and declining film revenue have driven local producers to focus more on global co-production opportunities.

Choi explained that as labor costs and general prices have increased in Korea, average production costs have risen sharply across the board. Since profits from films have decreased, these investments are becoming more difficult for local producers. In response, Barunson E&A has expanded its business into international markets, with a slate of completed films from Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia.