CGV Cinema Indonesia invited media and reporters to the premiere screening of the 91-minute Korean film “Streaming” starring Kang Ha-neul at CGV Grand Indonesia. Among the attendees were Siti Rosidah and Thoriq Hafidz, who participated as representatives of “Sahabat Korea” and “Honorary Reporters for Korea.net.” Their presence highlighted the growing cultural bridge between Korea and Indonesia. The evening began with registration at 6:00 PM (JKT), followed by the screening at 7:00 PM (JKT).
CGV Cinema Indonesia Special Screening: “STREAMING”
This screening stood out because “Streaming” — a real-time Korean thriller film starring Kang Ha-neul as the sole lead—centers on YouTube culture. He plays Woo Sang, a serial killer chaser who broadcasts the entire process live. The story revolves around Idol, a mystery streamer with the highest subscriber counts whose primary goal is gaining more viewers and subscribers.
Kang Ha-Neul: A New Face and Character
Kang said this new role showcases his refreshing side. Woo Sang isn’t someone you’d want to approach. Though he appears polished, he’s hollow inside, driven by arrogance.
The character’s look was reimagined with a sharp black suit and tie, emphasizing his intense on-screen persona. Though dubbed a “one-man show,” Kang said it was a team effort.
He emphasized the power of words: “It’s not just because I’m a celebrity—everyone has that power. But since my words reach more people, I feel a stronger responsibility.”
In today’s smartphone era, Kang said “Streaming” offers a rare chance to experience a live stream on the big screen.
“STREAMING” Korean Film Synopsis
“Streaming” is a thriller featuring Kang Ha-neul as Woo Sang, the top streamer on a competitive platform where only the highest-ranked streamers take home all the sponsorship earnings. Upon discovering clues to an unsolved serial murder case, Woo Sang begins to track the killer—live on his channel.
Woo Sang is a famous streamer who always maintains the top rank. When a trending serial murder case catches his attention, he starts tracing clues, broadcasting everything live.
“Woo Sang might have once tried to live a decent life, but once he found the WEG platform [a fictional site in the film], he was swallowed by money. He thought, ‘Even as a cop, I couldn’t earn this much,’ and stayed on.”
Kang Ha-neul, playing the arrogant but popular criminal broadcaster Woo Sang, interacts live with fans via chat.
A Serial Killer Case Investigation Through Live Streaming
Directed and written by Cho Jang-ho, this marks Cho’s directorial debut, known previously for the mystery novel “The Rapture 1992” (2017) and the web-based novel Justice. “It’s an unusual film format, but I liked how the director took a bold approach.”
A Unique Thriller Storyline
“I’d never read a script like it before in terms of both structure and originality—it pulled me into the story.”
Kang Ha-neul.
The film is structured in real-time, making it feel like a genuine live broadcast. Kang had to act alone in front of the camera, typical of streaming formats. The script featured four or five lines per scene, but Woo Sang had long monologues.
This psychological thriller explores media, obsession, and identity. The unique format was a challenge for everyone involved. Kang enjoyed playing a character unlike himself. Though Woo Sang is hard to understand, he is still relatable.
Kang based his portrayal on streamers Kim Won and Deeva Jessica, both known for true crime stories. Woo Sang’s tone drew from Kim Won, while Deeva Jessica inspired his use of on-screen visuals.
Context & Social Message
The film arrives at a timely moment, as cyberbullying becomes a critical social issue. So-called “cyber wreckers”—streamers who harass others for views—have been jailed for blackmailing and defaming mukbang YouTubers.
“Streaming” aims not to educate viewers about internet dangers but to make them reflect before consuming online content. The film shows how people speak unfiltered truths online—though not always factual—and how repeated exposure makes viewers start believing them.
Climax & Psychological Depth
Woo Sang, the most-followed streamer on the fictional WAG platform, becomes desperate to reclaim his top spot after losing it. He finds a lead on an unsolved murder and begins broadcasting his pursuit. But things spiral when he realizes the killer has been watching his stream all along.
The film explores Woo Sang’s vanity through visual elements—slicked-back hair, a black three-piece suit, tattoos, earrings, and an expensive watch. Kang mastered the live-stream feel, switching glances between live chat, camera, and his monitor to build rhythm and believability.
He channeled cyber wrecker arrogance—bold, boastful, and showy.
Streamers Solving Crimes: Truth Or Staged?
Kang wanted to portray Woo Sang not just as a villain but as someone constantly justifying his misdeeds out of pride. Woo Sang thrives in a brutal streaming ecosystem where only the top creators earn from sponsors.
After discovering a lead on a brutal serial murder, he aims to reclaim his fame—but realizes the killer is watching him.
To be the number one crime streamer, Woo Sang goes all out—studying criminal profiling, recreating crimes FBI-style, and even chasing real criminals on the live broadcast. But in the fast-paced streaming world, popularity can vanish in seconds.
How far will he go to stay on top? Will streamers reveal the truth—or fabricate it for fame?
With its intense plot and thrilling atmosphere, “Streaming” offers an adrenaline-pumping viewing experience. The audience is taken on a “live stream” throughout the film. Want to know the truth?
“Streaming” premiered in Korea last month. Catch it in Indonesian cinemas starting April 16, 2025, exclusively at CGV and Cinepolis.
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