‘Big Deal (Soju War)’: How a Bottle of Soju Became the Battleground for Korea’s Soul in 2025’s Most Talked-About Movie

What Is ‘Soju War’ and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?

If you’ve been anywhere near Korean movie news lately, you’ve heard about ‘Soju War’ (Big Deal). Released on May 30, 2025, this film has quickly become the talk of the town. Set during the 1997 IMF crisis, it tells the story of ‘Kukbo Soju’, a fictional company inspired by real events, as it faces collapse and takeover attempts. The movie’s blend of historical drama, corporate intrigue, and the emotional symbolism of soju has struck a chord with audiences of all ages.
‘Soju War’ isn’t just a business thriller—it’s a window into one of Korea’s toughest eras, making the struggles of its characters feel both epic and deeply personal.

Behind the Scenes: Real Events, Director Drama, and a Title Change

Did you know ‘Soju War’ was originally called ‘Moral Hazard’? The film’s journey to the screen was almost as dramatic as its plot. Inspired by the real-life downfall of Jinro Group, Korea’s legendary soju maker, the script was shaped by actual M&A battles and the pain of the IMF era. But things got messy: director Choi Yoon-jin was embroiled in a legal dispute with the production company, leading to his name being removed from the credits—a rare move in Korean cinema. The movie’s release date was even moved up to catch the holiday crowd, adding to the hype and controversy.
For international fans, this behind-the-scenes drama is a peek into how fiercely creative ownership and storytelling are guarded in Korea’s film industry.

Star Power: Yu Hae-jin and Lee Je-hoon’s Magnetic Chemistry

Headlining ‘Soju War’ are two of Korea’s most beloved actors: Yu Hae-jin as the loyal CFO Jong-rok, and Lee Je-hoon as the ambitious global investor In-beom. Their on-screen dynamic is electric—Yu brings warmth and authenticity, while Lee’s cold calculation is both chilling and captivating. Critics and fans alike have praised their performances, saying the film’s emotional punch comes from the tension and unexpected friendship that develops between these two men.
If you’re a fan of ‘Misaeng’ or ‘Inside Men’, you’ll love how ‘Soju War’ explores the gray areas of loyalty, ambition, and survival.

Plot Deep Dive: Soju, Survival, and the Korean Spirit

The story unfolds as Jong-rok fights to save Kukbo Soju from financial ruin, while In-beom, representing a foreign investment firm, moves in to acquire the company. What starts as a classic battle between defender and predator evolves into a nuanced exploration of trust, betrayal, and what soju really means to Koreans. The drink isn’t just a product—it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and the bittersweet taste of hard times.
Many reviewers have noted that the film’s use of soju as a metaphor for Korean identity gives it a unique flavor, setting it apart from other corporate dramas.

Community Buzz: What Are Korean Moviegoers and Netizens Saying?

On Naver, Daum, DC Inside, and Efem Korea, ‘Soju War’ is everywhere. Positive reactions highlight the film’s emotional depth, the chemistry between the leads, and its ability to make history feel alive. One popular comment reads: ‘Watching this made me want to share a drink with my dad and hear his IMF stories.’
However, some viewers find the plot a bit predictable and criticize the lack of directorial flair due to the behind-the-scenes disputes. Still, the consensus is that ‘Soju War’ succeeds in making a complex era accessible and relatable, with about 70% positive to 30% mixed or negative reactions across major forums.

Cultural Insight: Why Soju—and This Movie—Matters to Korean Fans

To truly get why ‘Soju War’ matters, you need to know how deeply soju is woven into Korean life. It’s not just a drink—it’s a ritual, a comfort, and a symbol of togetherness during both celebrations and crises. By using soju as the centerpiece, the film taps into collective memories of the IMF era, when families, friends, and even strangers leaned on each other to survive.
For overseas fans, this movie is a crash course in Korean resilience and the bittersweet nostalgia that flavors much of the nation’s pop culture. It’s also a reminder of how business, politics, and personal lives are often intertwined in Korean storytelling.

Box Office and Fandom: Breaking Records and Sparking Debate

Since its release, ‘Soju War’ has drawn over 50,000 viewers in its opening weekend, outperforming several Hollywood blockbusters in Korea. The film’s mix of nostalgia, star power, and real-life inspiration has made it a must-see, especially among viewers in their 30s and 40s who remember the IMF crisis firsthand. Fandoms for both Yu Hae-jin and Lee Je-hoon have been especially active, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and organizing group viewings.
Some fans even report that local bars have started offering ‘Kukbo Soju’ specials, turning movie night into a full cultural event.

Final Thoughts: ‘Soju War’ as a Mirror of Korea’s Past and Present

‘Soju War’ is more than a movie—it’s a cultural phenomenon that’s sparking conversations about history, identity, and the meaning of resilience. Whether you’re a K-cinema veteran or a newcomer, this film offers a powerful, emotional look at how a simple bottle of soju can carry the weight of a nation.
If you want to understand Korea—not just its movies, but its heart—‘Soju War’ is the shot you can’t miss.