By Hazel Camba
Following its success on streaming platform Netflix, the anime “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” has once again cemented its status as a blockbuster, breaking box office records in Japan and generating strong pre-ticket sales in South Korea.
The film, directed by Haruo Sotozaki and produced by studio Ufotable, brings the climactic “Infinity Castle” arc of Koyoharu Gotouge’s acclaimed manga to life.
It follows the story of Tanjiro Kamado, his sister Nezuko, and their allies as they confront the elite demons of the Twelve Kizuki, testing their courage, skills, and determination in a high-stakes battle to protect humanity.
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Record-breaking performance in Japan
Since its release on July 18, “Infinity Castle” has rapidly become one of Japan’s highest-grossing films.
According to Box Office Mojo, as cited by Fandomwire, it earned JPY22.07 billion (around USD149 million) in just 25 days, surpassing “One Piece Film: Red” as the fastest anime to reach this milestone.
Its domestic total has since reached approximately JPY24.70 billion (USD167.6 million) with 17.7 million admissions, ranking it sixth in Japan’s all-time box office hits, according to Twisted Voxel.
Reports say audiences praised the film for its gripping story, striking animation by Ufotable, and the emotional depth of its characters.
The intense battle scenes and Akaza’s backstory have also struck a chord with viewers, prompting repeat viewings and earning widespread acclaim.
South Korean pre-sales soar
Even before its official release in South Korea on August 22, “Infinity Castle” has recorded robust pre-sales.
As of Friday, August 15, a total of 411,835 tickets had been sold, accounting for 53.2% of all pre-sales, putting the film on track to sell nearly one million tickets before release.
Exclusive premium screenings this weekend are also expected to boost demand further, The Korea Herald reported.
However, the timing of its release has drawn criticism in South Korea as it coincided with the country’s Liberation Day celebrations on August 15.
Some critics have highlighted historical sensitivities, pointing to the protagonist’s earrings allegedly resembling the Rising Sun flag, the film’s Taisho-era (1912–1926) setting, and the Demon Slayer Corps’ teenage ranks, which some compare to wartime student soldiers.
Still, South Korean viewers have shown a tendency to separate entertainment from politics. When “Mugen Train,” the franchise’s first film, premiered in 2021, it drew 2.2 million viewers in the country despite facing similar scrutiny.
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