A South Korean smash-hit movie about a 16th-century Korean naval hero will open in Chinese theaters this year, the film’s local distributor said Monday.

“‘Roaring Currents’ will be shown in some 3,000 theaters throughout China within this year with China’s largest state-run movie distributor, China Film Group, in charge of the film’s distribution,” CJ E&M Corp. said.

Released on July 30, “Roaring Currents” drew a cumulative 17.6 million viewers in South Korea. On Aug. 15, it became the most-watched movie at theaters in the country, breaking the previous record of 13.62 million viewers held by the Hollywood blockbuster “Avatar.”

Starring veteran actor Choi Min-shik, the historical drama depicts a legendary naval victory over Japan led by Admiral Yi Sun-sin of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). In the Battle of Myeongnyang in 1597, the commander prevailed with only a dozen ships against Japan’s 300 warships.

“Chinese people are aware of the naval battle and are greatly curious about a film that drew a record number of viewers in South Korea,” said Lee Gi-yeon, an official in charge of Chinese investment and distribution in CJ E&M.

Up until now, the movie has opened in Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand as well as North America and will open in 13 other countries, including Taiwan, India, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand, in the future. (Yonhap)