The South Korean film Hi.5, starring Yoo Ah In, Lee Jae In, and a talented ensemble, will hit theaters on June 3, 2025, after a new poster revealed its unique superhero story. This comic action adventure promises a fresh take on ordinary people gaining extraordinary powers.
Hi.5 follows five individuals who gain superpowers after receiving organ transplants from mysterious donors. The film, delayed since 2023 due to legal issues involving Yoo Ah In, has now confirmed its release, sparking excitement among fans. Directed by Kang Hyoung Chul, known for hits like Sunny, the movie features a star-studded cast and a vibrant new poster showcasing the team’s dynamic personalities.
Story and Characters
The film centers on five strangers who unexpectedly develop superpowers after organ transplants. Each character’s unique abilities stem from their transplanted organs, creating a blend of humor and action.
- Wan Seo (Lee Jae In): A Taekwondo-loving girl who receives a heart transplant, gaining immense strength.
- Ki Dong (Yoo Ah In): An unemployed hipster who gets a corneal transplant, allowing him to see electromagnetic waves.
- Ji Seong (Ahn Jae Hong): An aspiring writer with a lung transplant, able to hold his breath for an extended time.
- Sun Nyeo (Ra Mi Ran): A convenience store manager who receives a kidney transplant, unlocking undisclosed powers.
- Yak Seon (Kim Hee Won): A factory manager with a liver transplant, becoming a healer who cures ailments.
The group faces challenges as others attempt to exploit their newfound abilities, leading to a battle to protect themselves. The story combines comedy, action, and heart, focusing on their journey as a team called Hi.5.
New Poster Details
The recently released poster highlights the five characters’ silhouettes, each glowing with symbols representing their powers. The bold Hi.5 logo stands out in the background, emphasizing the team’s unity. A caption on the poster reads:
We received superpowers through transplants.
This tagline hints at the film’s quirky premise, building anticipation for their extraordinary adventures. The vibrant design and distinct character poses showcase their individual personalities, from Wan Seo’s athletic stance to Ki Dong’s laid-back vibe.
Production Journey
Hi.5 began filming in June 2021 in locations like Songdo International Business District, Incheon, and Namhyeon-dong, Seoul. Production wrapped in November 2021 after five months. Initially slated for a 2022 release, the film faced delays due to a COVID-19 scare on set, though key cast members like Yoo Ah In and Ra Mi Ran were not present during the incident.
The release was further postponed from May 2023 after Yoo Ah In’s legal troubles. In February 2023, he tested positive for propofol, marijuana, cocaine, and ketamine during a police investigation, leading to a suspended sentence in February 2024. The film’s distributor, Next Entertainment World (NEW), considered editing out Yoo Ah In but decided against it, as his role was integral to the story.
In April 2025, NEW announced the June 3 premiere, though the exact date may shift due to external factors like South Korea’s presidential election on the same day. The success of Yoo Ah In’s other delayed projects, Goodbye Earth (April 2023) and The Match (March 2025), which topped the box office for nine days, influenced the decision to release Hi.5.
Cast and Crew
The film boasts a strong ensemble cast, including:
- Lee Jae In, known for Racket Boys, bringing youthful energy as Wan Seo.
- Yoo Ah In, a veteran actor from Six Flying Dragons, playing the quirky Ki Dong.
- Ahn Jae Hong, recognized for Reply 1988, as the determined Ji Seong.
- Ra Mi Ran, a comedy icon from The Himalayas, portraying Sun Nyeo.
- Kim Hee Won, seen in The Man from Nowhere, as the empathetic Yak Seon.
GOT7’s Jinyoung also joins as a villain, adding intrigue to the story. The film is written and directed by Kang Hyoung Chul, celebrated for Scandal Makers and Tazza: The Hidden Card, ensuring a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.
Yoo Ah In’s Involvement
Due to his ongoing legal issues, Yoo Ah In will not participate in promotional activities for Hi.5. This follows a similar strategy used for The Match, where his presence was minimized in marketing materials. In February 2024, the Seoul High Court sentenced him to a one-year prison term with two years of probation, a ₩2 million fine, 80 hours of community service, and 40 hours of drug counseling. He was released after five months in detention, but the case awaits a final Supreme Court verdict.
Despite the controversy, audiences have responded positively to Yoo Ah In’s performances, suggesting his star power remains strong. NEW has urged viewers to focus on the film’s merits, highlighting its unique concept and talented cast.
Public and Industry Response
Fans and netizens have expressed excitement for Hi.5, praising its fresh storyline and diverse cast. On X, posts celebrated the poster and June 3 release, with users like @kth_foxglove13 and @SIKseekers sharing enthusiasm for Lee Jae In and Yoo Ah In’s roles.
The official poster for the film Hi-Five (Hi.5) has been released. It will be in theaters on June 3. #HIFIVE #LeeJaein #이재인
HIGH FIVE (Hi-Five or Hi.5) new poster is out. In theaters on June 3rd. #유아인 #하이파이브 #YooAhIn #Hi5 #Hifive
The film’s release coincides with heightened public interest, partly due to its timing with the presidential election, which may amplify its visibility. The success of The Match, despite similar controversies, has bolstered confidence in Hi.5’s potential at the box office.
Current Updates
As of April 21, 2025, Hi.5 is on track for its June 3 theatrical release. The film’s distributor continues to monitor external factors, such as political events, that could affect the premiere date. Post-production is complete, and the cast’s chemistry, evident in the first stills released in November 2021, promises a lively and engaging film. Fans eagerly await the trailer to see more of the team’s superpowered antics.
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CREDITS: Soompi, NEW
