“EXHUMA: The Vicious Emerges” is garnering anticipation as a standout film in 2024.

It remains uncertain how much attention “EXHUMA: The Vicious Emerges” will attract from audiences, but it is poised to become one of the most talked-about films of 2024. On the 16th, Showbox, the distributor, announced that the first teaser for “EXHUMA: The Vicious Emerges,” released on January 8th, has surpassed 18 million views in just 8 days.

Beyond the impressive viewer numbers, the teaser for “EXHUMA: The Vicious Emerges” is captivating. Drawing parallels with the film ‘The Wailing,’ the director’s consistent exploration of occult themes becomes evident upon examining their filmography. The much-anticipated film “EXHUMA: The Vicious Emerges” is set for theatrical release in February 2024.

What do ‘exhuma’ or ‘파묘’ exactly mean in Korea, considering the local culture? These terms refer to a burial practice where a segment of a grave, tomb, or burial site is cleared to excavate the remains of the deceased for the relocation of the grave. Following this, cemetery stones like tombstones or memorial tablets are disposed of as part of the grave’s relocation. In Korean culture, the arrangement of the grave holds significance, as there is a belief that the proper handling of the burial site contributes to the well-being of the descendants.

This practice is deeply rooted in the belief that a well-maintained grave positively influences the fortunes of the deceased’s family. While various reasons may prompt exhuma, in the past, it was occasionally carried out for cultural and traditional reasons, underscoring the importance of heritage.

Official Trailer 1 of EXHUMA

Official Trailer 2 of EXHUMA

Synopsis of EXHUMA

When a series of mysterious supernatural events unfolds in the opulent Lee family’s residence in Los Angeles, they beckon the renowned young shamans Hwaram and Bonggil for assistance. Upon their arrival, Hwaram and Bonggil not only rescue an endangered baby but also unearth the ominous shadow of ancestral spirits looming over the family. In a quest to save the ancestors and unravel the dark secrets, Hwarim seeks aid from the foremost feng shui expert, Sangdeok, and the funeral director, Younggeun. To their surprise, the tomb is discovered in a secluded corner of a remote village in Korea, and the exhumation process begins. However, with the excavation comes an eerie energy emanating from beneath the tomb.

Casting of EXHUMA

Choi Min-sik Portrays Sangdeok, A feng shui expert on a quest for suitable land

He is widely acknowledged as one of the leading actors in South Korea. Choi Min-sik’s journey began with the popular 1994 series, “The Moon of Seoul,” and since then, his filmography has been adorned with successful works such as “No.3,” “Happy End,” “Swiri,” “Failan,” “I Saw the Devil,” “Nameless Gangster: Rules of Time” (a Netflix-recommended Korean film), “New World,” “Roaring Currents (Myeong-ryang),” and more. His acting prowess is so profound that there’s a saying that even when a film he participates in faces challenges at the box office, Choi Min-sik’s performance is lauded and remembered.

Internationally, he gained widespread recognition as the protagonist of the film “Oldboy”

Kim Go-eun Portrays Hwarim, a shaman soothing wandering spirits

In 2012, Kim Go-eun soared to fame with the film “Eungyo,” and she continued to elevate her stardom in 2016 with the drama “Goblin.” Despite encountering the challenges of “The King: Eternal Monarch,” she remains a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, showcasing her talent in series like “Yumi’s Cells” and “Little Women.”

For her role in “EXHUMA,” Kim Go-eun embraced the challenge, immersing herself in the intricate world of Korean shamanistic rituals. She learned the nuances of body movements, dance, and facial expressions under the guidance of a real shaman. Going above and beyond, she even visited the shaman’s home, sharing meals and dedicating herself to intensive practice. Kim Go-eun disclosed, “There was a strong determination that every aspect, from reciting ritual texts to performing and playing instruments, should exude professionalism.”

In a notable scene where Kim Go-eun performs a shamanistic ritual in the movie, co-star Choi Min-sik reportedly hailed it as the epitome of excellence within the film “EXHUMA.”

Yoo Hae-jin Portrays Yeong-geun, a funeral director with a proper demeanor

Yeong-geun is depicted as the foremost funeral director, entrusted with overseeing even the funeral of the president. Yoo Hae-jin reportedly delved into the intricacies of actual corpse-handling procedures to authentically capture his role.

Lee Do-hyun – Portrays Bonggil, a shaman reciting ritual texts

In 2022, he swiftly gained attention for his role as Ju Ye-jeong in the Netflix series “The Glory.” Despite his current military service, which limits his activities, “EXHUMA” presents a delightful opportunity for Lee Do-hyun’s fans to appreciate his performance.

Production crew of EXHUMA

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“Director Jang Jae-hyun takes charge of both the direction and screenplay for “EXHUMA.” This marks his third work, following his debut with “The Priests” and subsequent project, “Svaha: The Sixth Finger.”

During the production announcement, Director Jang Jae-hyun, renowned for his contributions to the occult film genre in Korea alongside Director Na Hong-jin of “The Wailing,” emphasized that “EXHUMA” would significantly diverge from his earlier works, “The Priests” and “Svaha: The Sixth Finger.” Contrary to his previous emphasis on aesthetically pleasing shots, he expressed his intention to capture the unique energy exuded by the actors in “EXHUMA,” acknowledging the challenge of focusing on the unseen aspects.

He clarified, “I approached it as a realistic fantasy rather than an occult film, avoiding heavy reliance on CG effects. Instead, I chose to immerse the actors in the actual environment, foregoing blue screens, and encouraged them to perform within that setting. It was a deliberate choice to demonstrate respect and consideration for the actors.”

In practice, “EXHUMA” notably refrains from heavy use of CG effects.”

Behind the scenes of EXHUMA

• Kim Go-eun’s involvement in the film has an interesting origin – apparently, actor Park Jung-min personally called her to request that she review the script for “EXHUMA” to consider taking the role. Park Jung-min, expressing his deep admiration for Director Jang Jae-hyun and citing him as his favorite director, particularly enjoyed their collaboration on “Svaha: The Sixth Finger.” According to Park Jung-min, he preemptively discussed the matter with Kim Go-eun, sharing that Director Jang Jae-hyun was very eager to have her on board and expressing concerns that she might decline.

• Choi Min-sik, who is not usually a fan of horror films, made his debut in the occult genre after 35 years in the industry.

Another prominent director in the occult genre is currently in the process of filming. Check out the details at https://triviaaboutkorea.com/director-na-hong-jin-with-his-new-film-hope/

You can still enjoy excerpts from “Goblin” for free at https://tvn.cjenm.com/ko/dokebi/

What does Shamanism in Korea truly look like? Explore it in this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCXMw5NdhGE&t=4s