In a bold move to strengthen its global presence, “Parasite” studio CJ ENM has appointed industry veteran Jung Hyun-joo as the head of its film division, as reported by Variety on March 7, 2025. This strategic leadership change underscores CJ ENM’s ambition to build on its legacy as a powerhouse in South Korean cinema.
‘Parasite’ Studio CJ ENM Taps Industry Veteran Jung Hyun-joo to Head Film Division https://t.co/LPLiP1kkUv
— Variety (@Variety) March 7, 2025
Jung brings over two decades of expertise, having played a pivotal role in Bong Joon Ho’s “The Host” at Chungeorahm Film and guiding hits like “The Thieves” and “A Taxi Driver” during her tenure at Showbox. Her recent work at Acemaker on projects like “Noryang: Deadly Sea” further solidifies her reputation as a visionary in production, financing, and distribution. CJ ENM, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, aims to leverage Jung’s skills to enhance its film business and accelerate international expansion, aligning with its “Untold Originals” slogan and partnerships like Studio Dragon and Fifth Season.
This appointment comes at a thrilling time for South Korean cinema, which continues to captivate global audiences. The success of “Parasite”—winning Best Picture at the 2020 Oscars—set a benchmark, and recent milestones, like the 25th anniversary of Park Chan-wook’s “Joint Security Area” in February 2025, highlight the industry’s enduring appeal. Jung’s leadership positions CJ ENM to compete with streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon, potentially ushering in a new era of Korean cinematic dominance.
Fans and industry watchers are buzzing with excitement, with comments praising Jung’s track record and CJ ENM’s forward-thinking strategy. This move promises to keep South Korean films at the forefront of global entertainment.
