Terror Man Defies Korean Animation Conventions Through Homegrown Creation
A New Era for Korean Animation
The protagonist races across Busan’s Gwangan Bridge. Dodging a hail of bullets, they leap into the sky as the bridge explodes behind them. This is the opening scene of “Terror Man,” a popular animation series on domestic OTT platform Tving. The show delivers tension and visual spectacle rivaling blockbuster action films.
Global OTT platforms have seen soaring demand for adult-oriented animations like “Sorcery Rotation” and “Demon Slayer.” Amid this trend, Tving released its original eight-part Korean series “Terror Man” (rated 15+) on the 29th of last month. With domestic animation largely dominated by children’s content, this adult-focused series is seen as a bold and refreshing challenge.
Eom Sang-yong, 58 years old, general director of DR Movie, met with Tving at its headquarters on the 9th. “Korea’s animation industry, specialized in OEM production for Japanese and American studios, hasn’t changed much in over 30 years,” he said. “Shouldn’t Korean animators eventually tell their own stories?” “Terror Man,” he added, was created “to lay the foundation for that future.”
Eom has collaborated with North American studios since his 30s. He directed the second episode of “The Simpsons’” Halloween special “Treehouse of Horror XXXIII,” which won an Emmy Award in 2023. He also worked on episode four of Netflix’s Japanese anime “Pluto” (2023).
He emphasized that “Terror Man” represents the “culmination of my 30-year career.” Unlike OEM projects guided by foreign studios, this series is entirely domestically produced. “Korean animators receive praise for OEM work,” he said, “but it leaves nothing behind for us or the industry.”
“Terror Man” was co-produced by CJ ENM’s Studio Bazooka and DR Movie over three years. Based on a webtoon serialized since 2016, it follows high school student Jung-woo, who foresees disasters like building collapses and grows into a hero. Featuring Korean landmarks like Hapjeong Station, the action series balances thrills with narrative depth, sparking calls for a second season.
The Rise of Adult Animation
Adult animation is a rapidly expanding global market. Netflix reported a threefold increase in anime viewers over five years. However, investments remain concentrated in Japan and the U.S., prompting concerns that Korea could miss this opportunity. Eom hopes domestic production growth will bring back skilled Korean animators working abroad.
Reflecting on the success of “KPop Demon Hunters,” he said, “As a Korean, it stung.” With Korean culture at a historic peak, he urged animators to seize the moment. “I sincerely hope animation survives,” he added. “It carries a unique emotional resonance created by human hands—one that dramas and films cannot replicate. I hope the day comes soon when we can fully express our own sensibilities through animation.”
Subscription Offers and Benefits
For those interested in accessing a wide range of publications, there are several subscription options available:
- Monthly membership: 5900 won, offering access to a variety of newspapers and magazines.
- Newspaper readers: 2900 won, providing exclusive benefits tailored for newspaper subscribers.
- Chosun Membership: 55000 won, allowing access to 8 different newspapers and magazines worth up to 55000 won.
- Chosun Membership: Receive 7000 points that can be used like cash for shopping, making it a cost-effective choice for regular readers.
