Lobby

“Lobby” (Korean: “로비”) is a 2025 South Korean black-comedy thriller directed by and starring Ha Jung-woo, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Released on April 2, 2025, the film spans 105–106 minutes and targets audiences aged 15 and above.

Plot Synopsis

Chang‑wook (Ha Jung‑woo), the earnest CEO of a struggling EV‑charger startup, faces ruthless competition from his ex‑partner Gwang‑woo (Park Byung‑eun), who has stolen his tech and outmaneuvered him with unethical lobbying. The only hope lies in securing a KRW 4 trillion national project. Lacking connections, Chang‑wook enters the exclusive “lobby‑golf” scene to charm minister Cho’s husband, enlisting golf lessons, media manipulation, and a pro golfer he secretly admires. What begins as a strategic gambit on the green spirals into scandal, betrayal, and chaotic twists.

Cast & Characters

Main Cast

• Ha Jung‑woo as Chang‑wook: CEO of struggling startup.

Supporting Cast

• Kim Eui‑sung as minister Cho’s husband.
• Kang Hae‑rim as Jin Se‑bin: professional golfer.
• Lee Dong‑hwi.
• Park Byung‑eun as Gwang‑woo: rival and Chang‑wook’s former partner.
• Kang Mal‑geum.
• Choi Si‑won.
• Cha Joo‑young.
• Park Hae‑soo.
• Kwak Sun‑young.

Reception

Topped South Korean pre‑sales three days before release.

Ranked #1 at ticket purchasing on release day, pairing with Victory for a springtime box‑office showdown.

Debuted #2 at opening weekend, drawing around 37,000 viewers on day one and 101,500 over the weekend.

Praised for Ha Jung‑woo’s dialogue and ensemble chemistry, labeled “a strange, hilarious, crazy movie” that resonates with office workers seeking escapism.

Fun Facts & Highlights

Filming Period

Filmed September 14 – December 27, 2023.

Inspiration

Ha Jung‑woo based the film on his fascination with golf’s exclusivity and off‑record negotiations during the pandemic.

Creative Process

Creative process included 10+ full cast readings and scene rehearsals to nail the film’s rhythmic dialogue and dark-comedy beats.

Genre‑Blending Satire

Film combines sharp political commentary, slapstick golf-gambits, and underdog drama – dividing audiences with its shifts between dark comedy and emotional tension.

Satire of Power Dynamics

“Lobby” skewers the bureaucratic and corporate elites behind closed‑door deals on manicured greens.

Underdog Grit

It reflects fintech/start‑up struggles and social burnout in Korea’s fast‑paced economy.

Why Watch It?

• Ha Jung‑woo’s incisive satire bridges the comedic and the corporate.
• A fresh spin on political critique using the golf‑lobby metaphor.
• Strong performances from a star‑studded cast ensure both laughs and reflections.
• Offers insight into Korea’s startup culture and political networks with entertaining flair.

Final Thoughts

“Lobby” is a bold, offbeat political black comedy that uses golf as the arena for power plays, betrayal, and absurd tactics. It highlights Ha Jung‑woo’s growth as a director and actor, while delivering a sharp critique of modern institutional corruption – all with razor‑sharp humor and ensemble charm.

Where to Watch

Theatrical Release

It debuted on April 2, 2025.

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