Korean sci-fi thriller HOPE will no longer release in Indian cinemas on September 25, 2026, with the film’s theatrical debut now tentatively planned for October. The postponement comes as the certification process for its multiple dubbed versions is still underway.
Distributed in India by Star Entertainment, HOPE has already received its CBFC certificate for the English version without cuts. However, certification for the Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and other dubbed versions is yet to be completed.
As a result, the distributor has opted to move the film from its previously announced September 25 date, allowing additional time for the remaining certifications.
HOPE Release Postponed in India Amid Certification Process
The September 25 release date for HOPE has been postponed, with the film now tentatively targeting an October 2026 theatrical release in India.
While the English version has received certification without cuts, the certification process for the dubbed editions is still in progress. The film is expected to be released in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Korean for Indian audiences.
A final release date is expected to be announced once the remaining certification formalities are completed.
The decision to postpone the film is therefore linked to the ongoing certification process rather than a reported change in the film’s production or theatrical plans.
International Release Continues Through November
The Indian postponement comes as HOPE continues its international theatrical rollout.
The English-language certification in India is consistent with the film’s wider international release strategy, where an uncut version has reportedly been released in markets already covered by its theatrical rollout.
The film is scheduled to continue reaching international territories through November 2026, with releases in markets including the UK, Sweden, Switzerland and Ireland, followed by Argentina, Germany, France and Spain in October.
Other international markets are also expected to receive the film as its global rollout continues.
HOPE Crosses $7 Million in the US
The Korean sci-fi thriller has also recorded a notable theatrical run in the United States.
According to the supplied international box-office figures, HOPE has crossed $7 million during its US theatrical run, making it the highest-grossing Korean film in the US based on the reported international box-office performance.
Its overseas reception has added to anticipation surrounding the film’s eventual release in India, particularly among audiences interested in Korean cinema and large-scale genre productions.
Na Hong-jin Directs the Sci-Fi Thriller
HOPE is directed by acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Na Hong-jin, known for films including The Chaser, The Yellow Sea and The Wailing.
The story is set in an isolated port town, where the discovery of an unidentified object triggers a series of mysterious and dangerous events.
The film combines science fiction and thriller elements while expanding beyond the conventions typically associated with Korean genre cinema.
Hwang Jung-min, Jo In-sung and International Stars Lead Cast
The film features a major ensemble that brings together actors from Korean and international cinema.
The cast includes:
- Hwang Jung-min
- Jo In-sung
- Jung Ho-yeon
- Michael Fassbender
- Alicia Vikander
- Taylor Kitsch
The combination of Korean stars and internationally recognised performers has been one of the key factors behind the film’s global attention.
When Will HOPE Release in India?
At present, October 2026 is only a tentative release window for HOPE in India. The earlier September 25 date has been postponed, and the final theatrical date has not yet been announced.
The film will be released in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Korean, once the relevant certification process is completed.
