A scene from the animated film "Mr. Robot" / Courtesy of NEW

Korean animation is broadening its scope beyond primarily children's content with a surge of wider themes and genres aimed at capturing adult audiences, as seen in recent releases "Mr. Robot" and "Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning."

Traditionally, the Korean animated film market has been overshadowed by productions from American giants like Walt Disney and Pixar, and the works of Japanese star directors such as Makoto Shinkai and Hayao Miyazaki.

However, the growing diversity in content is signaling a change, with Korean studios producing works that appeal to more diverse viewers.

A scene from "Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning" / Courtesy of Showbox

"Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning," based on Lee Woo-hyuk's 1990s fantasy novel, premiered on Feb. 21 and drew 447,150 viewers as of Wednesday, receiving acclaim from both original novel fans and new audiences.

The film's successful adaptation of the expansive world combining martial arts, exorcism and religion into a high-quality animated feature has been praised for aligning with Korea's occult genre boom, sparked by the 2024 movie "Exhuma."

Though not a mega-hit, its steady interest suggests a long theatrical run, with sales confirmed in 12 countries, including North American nations, Germany and Switzerland, it's expected to perform well overseas.

Another Korean animation, "Mr. Robot," slated for release on April 4, is a self-proclaimed "robot blockbuster."

Directed by Lee Dae-hee, known for "Swimming to Sea" (2012) and "Stress Zero" (2021), his third animated feature tells the story of a man-turned-robot and a bereaved girl, featuring dynamic robot action sequences.

Using Unreal Engine, an animation tool primarily used for video game development, "Mr. Robot" boasts exceptional visual quality.

"Unlike traditional 3D animation, we aimed to express realistic camera work akin to live-action films. By utilizing Unreal Engine, which allows for real-time rendering of time-consuming 3D video work similar to video games, we were able to achieve the unique visuals you see now," the director said.

Rated for viewers 12 and up, its aesthetic reminiscent of sci-fi classics like "Blade Runner" (1982) could pave the way for Lee to create more adult-oriented animations in the future.

Also anticipated is "Bad Girl: Run Hani," set for release in the latter half of the year. This animated feature is based on cartoonist Lee Jin-joo's comic "Run Hani."

Originally published between 1985 and 1987, the comic's popularity led to a successful KBS television adaptation in 1988.

Both the comics and its televised version chronicle the journey of Hani, a gifted track-and-field star who overcomes adversity with unwavering determination, alongside the supportive presence of her mentor and the competitive dynamic with her rival, Aeri.