The highly anticipated Korean film Florence, marking the big-screen return of veteran actor Kim MinJong, has already achieved significant international success ahead of its domestic premiere. On September 4, 2025, the movie secured three major awards at the Global Stage Hollywood Film Festival 2025 in Los Angeles, signaling a powerful start for the poignant drama and the celebrated Kim MinJong comeback.
A Triumphant Return for Kim MinJong in ‘Florence’
After a 20-year hiatus from the film industry, Kim MinJong returns in the lead role of Choi Seokin, a middle-aged man grappling with loneliness and regret while reflecting on his life in the picturesque Italian city of Florence. The Florence movie is described as a deep, artistic exploration of human emotion, a theme that has clearly resonated with international critics. His return to cinema has been a major point of discussion among fans and media, generating substantial buzz for the film’s artistic merits and his nuanced performance.
International Acclaim and a Hollywood Award Sweep
The film’s success in Los Angeles is a remarkable achievement. Florence was honored with three prestigious accolades: Best Picture, Best Screenplay, and Best Director for Lee Changyeol. This triple win underscores the project’s quality, from its compelling narrative to its masterful execution. For a Korean film to receive such a high-profile Hollywood award before its local release is a testament to its universal appeal and the growing global influence of South Korean cinema, a trend also seen with other productions like the Korean Film ‘Eojjeol Su Eopda’ Selected for Academy Awards.
A Testament to Director Lee Changyeol’s Vision
The Best Director award for Lee Changyeol highlights his crucial role in bringing the story’s emotional depth to life. His direction has been praised for beautifully capturing the melancholic atmosphere of the narrative and the stunning backdrop of Florence, Italy. This recognition solidifies his reputation as a filmmaker with a distinct and powerful artistic vision, making the Florence movie a must-watch for cinephiles.
Viral Sensation and Anticipation in Asia
Beyond the festival circuit, excitement for the film is reaching a fever pitch online. Promotional reels and clips related to Florence have exploded in popularity, surpassing 100 million cumulative views. This viral phenomenon has led Chinese media outlets to affectionately dub Kim MinJong the “God of 100 Million Views,” proving his enduring star power across Asia. The combination of critical acclaim and massive online engagement has created immense anticipation for the film’s official release.
The ‘Kim MinJong Comeback’ Sparks Excitement
The buzz is not just about the film itself but also about the celebrated Kim MinJong comeback. Fans who have followed his career for decades are eager to see him tackle a complex, dramatic role. This groundswell of support, coupled with the prestigious Hollywood award, sets the stage for a successful box office run when Florence officially hits theaters in South Korea on November 26, 2025. (Photo Credit: SVcom)
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