Watching movies alone is becoming a new trend. Courtesy of CGV By KTimes As solo activities like dining alone, drinking alone and even going on solo vacations gain popularity, a new trend has emerged in the film industry: watching movies alone. This phenomenon is becoming increasingly common, with more moviegoers opting to enjoy films by themselves.
According to CGV, one of South Korea's largest cinema chains, the percentage of single-person viewings reached about 25 percent during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, influenced by social distancing measures. Post-pandemic, the trend persisted, with single-person audience percentages recorded at 17 percent in 2022, 19 percent in 2023, and a slight rise to 21 percent as of Sept. 18, 2024.
Similarly, Lotte Cinema reported a 1 percent year-on-year increase in single-person ticket sales from January to August 2024. Celebrities have also embraced this trend, sharing their solo movie experiences with fans. Kang Min-kyung of the musical duo Davichi, for example, showcased her solo movie outing on her YouTube channel.
Solo moviegoers, with their growing numbers, have become a key audience segment for cinemas. Why is solo movie watching rising? Traditionally, movie theaters were viewed as places to spend time with partners or friends. However, the presence of solo moviegoers has become increasingly prominent.
Kim Heon-sik, a popular culture critic, attributes this shift primarily to changing social and cultural perceptions. He explain.