Korean Exhibition Giant Continues to Innovate

CJ CGV, Korea’s top cinema chain, has become the first exhibitor in the world to enter the metaverse. 

The cinema chain launched Zepeto CGV World on January 28, a full-service metaverse multiplex with a lobby and an auditorium. Patrons can purchase a virtual ticket at the box office stand, drinks and popcorn at the concession stand or take selfies in the photo zone, just like in a real CGV lobby.

Inside the theater, viewers can choose from a range of seating options, which reflect the different styles of viewing experiences available at physical CGV cinemas. These include the ‘Sweet Cinema’ private suites, ‘Tempur Cinema’ with lay-down bed-style chairs, the nature-themed ‘Cine & Foret’, and the chain’s popular interactive 4DX seats.

The 1.43:00 ratio screen is modelled after the IMAX screen in CGV’s flagship Yongsan Station location in Central Seoul. While feature films are currently not available for viewing, patrons can take in a variety of trailers as well as prize-winning user-generated content from a recent CJ-run “Make Your Own Movie” contest.

CJ CGV is no stranger to exhibition innovations, having introduced popular formats such as 4DX and Screen X to the world. In addition to being the top cinema chain in Korea, one of the world’s top theatrical markets, CJ CGV is also operational in Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar, Turkey, China and the United States.

Rival Korean company Lotte announced last month that it will also be expanding its forays into the metaverse, which include virtual cinemas and concert halls.