Filming to take place entirely in Korea; aiming for 2027 release

From left: Actress Yoo Ji-young and singer-actor Eric Nam
[ⓒ Amir Shafii·Kigon Kwak. Redistribution and database storage prohibited]

HYBE America, the U.S. subsidiary of HYBE, is set to produce a live-action film centered on K-pop.

According to HYBE on the 23rd, HYBE America is collaborating with U.S. film studio Paramount Pictures to produce a K-pop-themed movie, targeting a theatrical release in February 2027.

The film tells the story of a Korean-American girl who defies her family's opposition to participate in a televised audition program in hopes of becoming a K-pop girl group member. The film's title has not yet been decided.

Actress Yoo Ji-young, who voiced Zoey—the youngest member of the popular girl group HUNTRIX—in the Netflix animated movie K-Pop Demon Hunters, has been cast in the lead role.

Joining her is singer and actor Eric Nam, who appeared in last year’s Hollywood film Transplant.

Filming for the entire movie is scheduled to take place in South Korea starting this September.

The film will be directed by Benson Lee, with the screenplay written by Eileen Shim. Executive producers include Joshua Bearman, John Zaozirny, and Scott Manson from Epic Magazine.

James Shin, Head of Film & TV at HYBE America, and former HYBE America CEO Scooter Braun are also involved in the production.

Director Benson Lee stated, "This film is my love letter to K-pop," adding, "I sincerely thank Paramount Pictures for supporting the project, the production team for their unwavering commitment, and everyone who helped bring this story to life."