Is there a way to watch “PROJECT Y” for free? Scheduled for release in January 2026, the Korean film “PROJECT Y” stars popular actresses Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo. As a crime suspense × female buddy film, it’s already trending on social media even before its release. In this article, we thoroughly explain legal ways to watch PROJECT Y for free, predict when streaming might begin, and even share ultra-cheap viewing hacks! Make the most of free trials from major subscriptions like Netflix, U-NEXT, and Amazon Prime Video to enjoy “PROJECT Y” at a bargain.
After reading this, both theater-goers and streamers can relax. We’ll clearly cover the points you should check before the release.
- What is PROJECT Y | A shocking crime suspense from Korean cinema
- Synopsis & Film Info | Full picture of the chase over 8 billion won
- Highlights to know before watching | Why “PROJECT Y” is trending
- Streaming services likely to get PROJECT Y
- FAQ about watching PROJECT Y
- Filmographies of the leads | Check Han So-hee & Jeon Jong-seo’s signature works
- Recommended similar/related works | For fans of “PROJECT Y”
- Check the buzz & reviews on social media! | PROJECT Y reactions roundup
What is PROJECT Y | A shocking crime suspense from Korean cinema
“PROJECT Y (Project Y)” is a Korean film scheduled for release in Japan on Friday, January 23, 2026, starring popular actors Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo. The director is Lee Hwan, known for socially conscious thrillers. Set in Seoul’s Gangnam, the film follows two young women who steal “8 billion won in gold bars” out of poverty and despair, portraying a tense crime suspense about their ensuing escape.
The title “PROJECT Y” carries a double meaning: the question “Why” and “Young,” embedding the social theme of “why young people choose dangerous paths.” While it may look like a heist story, it’s actually a human drama depicting inequality, loneliness, and friendship in modern society.
At its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, it received high praise from foreign media as being “stylish with a cold beauty” and showcasing “a new side of Han So-hee.” Expectations are high that it will bring a fresh breeze to Korean noir.
Production background and Director Lee Hwan’s intent
Director Lee Hwan is known for realistic works tackling social issues, and in “PROJECT Y” he once again directly portrays the realities facing today’s youth. The script, direction, and cinematography are characterized by a lean structure and relentless tension.
By casting two charismatic actresses—Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo—the film has been described as pioneering a new genre of “noir by women.” In particular, Han So-hee plays a tough, shadowed character that marks a clear departure from the pure roles she has often played.
In interviews, Director Lee Hwan said he “wanted to look at the ‘pain’ behind violence and crime,” making this a film with a strong message that goes beyond a simple crime movie and challenges viewers with questions.
Cast & Crew List
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PROJECT Y (Project Y) |
| Release Date | Friday, January 23, 2026 |
| Director | Lee Hwan |
| Starring | Han So-hee, Jeon Jong-seo |
| Genre | Crime Suspense, Noir |
| Country | South Korea |
| Runtime | Unannounced (Estimate: around 120 min) |
| First Screening | 50th Toronto International Film Festival |
In the Korean film industry, male-driven noir has long been the mainstream, but “PROJECT Y” is groundbreaking for depicting crime from the perspective of two women. As a result, even before its release in Korea, film fans are buzzing and calling it “the female version of ‘New World.’”
“PROJECT Y” blends social themes with stylish visuals to create a new kind of crime suspense. Keep an eye on the story of “despair and hope” portrayed by the unbeatable duo of Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo.
Synopsis & Film Info | Full picture of the chase over 8 billion won
The synopsis of “PROJECT Y (Project Y)” is set in the underworld of Gangnam, Seoul. Two women at rock bottom attempt a daring plan to steal 8 billion won in gold bars. Living amid poverty, violence, and despair, the last resort they choose to change their fate—is “crime.”
But as the plan progresses, underworld organizations, the police, and betrayals from their own circle stand in their way. The tense cat-and-mouse game never lets the audience catch their breath. As the story advances, their friendship and trust waver, leading to a shocking ending no one can foresee.
Main Character Introductions
◆ Mi-seon (Han So-hee)
A young woman struggling financially. Though she suffers from a violent boyfriend, she has a strong sense of justice. She joins the risky gold heist, but she has her own hidden “reason to live.”
◆ Do-kyung (Jeon Jong-seo)
Mi-seon’s childhood friend and accomplice. Cool-headed and quick-witted, she is the brains behind the criminal plan. However, she too bears a “past sin” and a fate she cannot escape.
◆ Cha Hyun-gi (Park Hae-soo)
The detective pursuing the two. Once an idealistic investigator, he loses his heart amid corruption. Though a pursuer, he gradually begins to empathize with their “way of life.”
Film Data & Basic Info
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PROJECT Y (Project Y) |
| Release Date | Friday, January 23, 2026 |
| Director | Lee Hwan |
| Starring | Han So-hee, Jeon Jong-seo |
| Genre | Crime Suspense, Human Drama |
| Runtime | Approx. 120 min (Planned) |
| Distributor | Media Castle (Korea) |
| Country | South Korea |
| Age Rating | PG12 (Expected) |
In addition to the dark, intricately plotted script characteristic of Korean cinema, the cinematographer’s monotone visual beauty and tension-building sound design are hot topics. Music by Korean hip-hop artists gives the film a distinctive sense of rhythm.
Film Festivals & Media Reception
The film had its world premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival in 2025, reportedly receiving a standing ovation. Critics praised it as “an evolved form of Korean noir” and “new as a crime film led by women.” Han So-hee’s performance was said to fuse “unprecedented madness and delicacy.”
In Japan, excitement is growing particularly on social media, with many comments such as “the chemistry between Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo is amazing” and “the visuals are artistic,” even before the release.
“PROJECT Y” is a top-tier crime suspense where thrill, friendship, and betrayal intersect. The “crime to survive” chosen by two women will shake you to your core.
Highlights to know before watching | Why “PROJECT Y” is trending
“PROJECT Y (Project Y)” is not just another crime movie. Its biggest appeal lies in depicting the reality of inequality and survival in modern society through two women confronting the darkness of society. In the genre of Korean noir, it’s rare for women to drive the story as protagonists, a point highly rated at home and abroad.
1) The chemistry of two skilled actors: Han So-hee & Jeon Jong-seo
Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo. Their co-starring itself is big news in the Korean film world. Han So-hee gained global attention for her action and acting in the drama “My Name,” while Jeon Jong-seo earned international acclaim for the film “Burning.” In this film, where they play a complex relationship wavering between “friendship” and “betrayal”, their performances shine with human warmth amid relentless tension.
Viewers are drawn into a moral dilemma—“Which choice is right?”—and deeply empathize with the characters’ emotions.
2) Director Lee Hwan’s visual beauty and social message
Director Lee Hwan is one of the new generation of Korean filmmakers. Rather than the thrills of crime itself, this work focuses on the “realities” of those driven to crime. A consistent theme in his works is the structure of society that corners individuals, and “PROJECT Y” continues along that line.
Visually, the film is highly accomplished. In particular, scenes set on the streets of Gangnam at night present beautiful contrasts of neon light and darkness, giving the impression of paintings. This lets audiences enjoy not only the tension of the story but also its “artistry shown through visuals.”
3) Real themes symbolizing modern society
One reason “PROJECT Y” is attracting worldwide attention is its strong social message. Against the backdrop of youth unemployment, poverty, inequality, and gender issues in modern Korean society, it poses questions like “What is justice?” and “What does it mean to live?”
Especially the portrayal of women surviving within society will resonate with audiences across borders. That realism stems from the script’s completeness and the cast’s all-out performances.
4) Fusion of action, suspense, and drama
This film doesn’t rely on flashy explosions or gunfights; instead, it builds thrills through tension and psychological battles. Even with fewer action scenes, the dense structure keeps your eyes glued to the screen.
By delicately portraying the characters’ inner movements, the audience is powerfully drawn into the “human drama behind the crime.”
“PROJECT Y” opens a new frontier in Korean cinema where thrill and beauty coexist. The overwhelming performances of Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo will shake your values.
Streaming services likely to get PROJECT Y
“PROJECT Y (Project Y)” is scheduled for release on Friday, January 23, 2026. After the theatrical run, the typical order is ① pay-per-view rental → ② all-you-can-watch subscription. Below is a list—based on Korean film distribution cycles and each platform’s programming tendencies—showing the predicted start dates (always listed by year and month), monthly fees, and whether free viewing is possible. *These are predictions; actual start dates and conditions may change.*
| Service | Predicted Start | Price | How to Watch Free |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | July 2026 (rental first) / December 2026 (included) | Approx. ¥600/month + rental PPV | When it becomes included, no extra fee during membership. Rentals can be effectively discounted during sales. |
| U-NEXT | August 2026 (rental) / December 2026–January 2027 (included) | ¥2,189/month (tax incl.) | 31-day free trial + monthly points cover new release rentals. After it’s included, watch during the free period. |
| Netflix | December 2026–February 2027 | Plans from ¥990/month | No free trial. After it’s included, you can watch without extra charges in your join month. |
| Hulu | December 2026–February 2027 | ¥1,026/month (tax incl.) | No standard free trial. Once included, no extra fee after joining. |
| Disney+ | February 2027–April 2027 | Approx. ¥1,320/month | No free trial. If adopted for the catalog, watch within the join month. |
| TVer | January 2026 (specials around release) | Free (ad-supported) | Full film is rare, but specials/interviews likely free. |
| Lemino | September 2026 (rental) / December 2026–January 2027 (included) | ¥990/month (tax incl.) | During first-month-free campaigns, watch in the free period (after inclusion). |
| DMM TV | September–October 2026 (rental) / January 2027 (included) | ¥550/month (tax incl.) | If eligible for a first-time trial (e.g., 30 days), watch during the free period. |
| Rakuten TV | July 2026 (rental first) | No monthly fee (PPV) | Use coupons or sales for effective discounts on rentals. |
| Crank-in Video | July–August 2026 (rental) | No monthly fee (PPV) / plans with sub combo available | Initial point grants may allow effectively free rental. |
TSUTAYA DISCAS | August–October 2026 (mail DVD rental after disc release) | Flat-rate plans available | During the first free trial, items other than “new/semi-new” may be ¥0 equivalent to rent. |
| FOD Premium | Late 2026–Early 2027 (possible inclusion) | ¥976/month (tax incl.) | If included, no extra fee in the join month. |
| WOWOW | October–December 2026 (first TV run on movie channel possible) | ¥2,530/month (tax incl.) | No extra fee in the join month (check contract terms). |
| TELASA | September–December 2026 | From ¥618/month (tax incl.) | During free trials (when offered), watch for free after inclusion. |
| ABEMA | Late 2026–Early 2027 (specials/PPV possible) | Basic free / Premium ¥960/month | Some free streams or campaigns may offer effectively free viewing. |
| d Anime Store | — (likely not applicable as it’s anime-focused) | ¥550/month (tax incl.) | Assumed not applicable. Anime-related specials only possible. |
SKY PerfecTV! | October–December 2026 (possible on movie specialty channels) | Depends on channel/pack | If scheduled, joining month can be effectively cheap (e.g., first-month-free campaigns). |
If you want to watch as early as possible, first check rental-first platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Rakuten TV, and Crank-in Video. Then wait for U-NEXT, Lemino, and DMM TV to include it in their catalogs, and watch during their free trial periods—the classic strategy.
The prime window within 6–12 months after release is rental first → then included. For free viewing, target inclusion on U-NEXT / Lemino / DMM TV and use their free trials. For earliest availability, check Amazon/Rakuten rentals; for first TV run, watch WOWOW and SKY PerfecTV! schedules.
FAQ about watching PROJECT Y
Here we clearly answer the most common questions about streaming and watching “PROJECT Y (Project Y)”. If you’re considering watching, use this as a guide.
Q1. When will PROJECT Y start streaming?
As of October 2025, the official streaming date is undecided. However, since the theatrical release is Friday, January 23, 2026, based on the general pattern for Korean films, rental streaming is likely in summer–autumn 2026, with inclusion by late 2026–early 2027.
Q2. Is there a way to watch PROJECT Y for free?
Because it’s before the theatrical release, there is currently no legal way to watch it for free. However, once streaming begins, using each service’s free trial period may let you watch it effectively for free. Recommended services include:
If you register when “PROJECT Y” is added to any of these catalogs, you can watch completely free or at a steep discount.
Q3. Will PROJECT Y be released on Blu-ray/DVD?
Many Korean films release on Blu-ray/DVD about six months to a year after theatrical runs. Therefore, we expect discs for “PROJECT Y” to arrive in the latter half of 2026. Domestic editions may include bonus features and making-ofs, so fans should watch for announcements.
Q4. Will it stream on Netflix?
Netflix is very active with Korean films, especially via partnerships with Korean production companies. “PROJECT Y” has a good chance to arrive on Netflix, with a predicted window of late 2026–2027.
Q5. Any theater discounts or deals?
To save at theaters, use these discounts:
- First Day (1st of each month): Tickets around ¥1,300
- Ladies’ Day: Discount every Wednesday for women
- Theater membership days: Discounts at TOHO Cinemas, AEON Cinema, etc.
- U-NEXT movie exchange coupon: Use points for effectively ¥0 viewing (on eligible titles)
Q6. I found free streams on illegal sites—is that okay?
Absolutely not. Watching illegally uploaded videos is copyright infringement and risks malware and data leaks. Always use legitimate streaming services for safe viewing.
“PROJECT Y” is slated for 2026. When streaming starts, using free trial periods from services like U-NEXT or Lemino may let you enjoy it for free. Avoid illegal viewing and stick to official routes for safety.
Filmographies of the leads | Check Han So-hee & Jeon Jong-seo’s signature works
The appeal of “PROJECT Y (Project Y)” is powered by two of Korea’s top talents: Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo. Their performances are both delicate and dynamic, winning high praise from film fans worldwide. Here are their works and career highlights.
◆ Han So-hee — Main Works
Han So-hee has taken the Korean drama world by storm with stunning visuals and a commanding presence, tackling genres from romance to action and noir.
| Title | Year | Genre | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nevertheless, | 2021 | Romance Drama | Netflix |
| My Name | 2021 | Crime/Action | Netflix |
| The World of the Married | 2020 | Social Drama | U-NEXT |
| Gyeongseong Creature | 2023 | Monster Thriller | Netflix |
In particular, “My Name” established her as an “action actress” with a raw performance of a woman driven by revenge. In “PROJECT Y,” she channels that experience into an even darker, more human character.
◆ Jeon Jong-seo — Main Works
Jeon Jong-seo gained global attention with “Burning” (2018), which was acclaimed at Cannes. Known for a unique presence and profound acting, she’s active in both Korea and Hollywood.
| Title | Year | Genre | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burning | 2018 | Psychological Suspense | U-NEXT |
| The Call | 2020 | Horror/Thriller | Netflix |
| Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon | 2021 | Fantasy/Thriller | Netflix |
| Ballerina | 2023 | Action/Revenge | Netflix |
In “The Call,” she portrayed a character mixing madness and sorrow, becoming a new emblem of Netflix Korean films. In “Ballerina,” she stunned the world again by blending action with raw emotion.
◆ The “chemical reaction” their pairing brings
Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo—two very different acting styles—co-star for the first time in “PROJECT Y.” Their opposing energies clash and mirror each other, generating tension and waves of real emotion throughout the film.
Regarding the casting, Director Lee Hwan said, “Just having them stand together completes the story,” making this pairing the decisive factor in the film’s success.
The highlight of “PROJECT Y” is Han So-hee’s delicate emotional expression and Jeon Jong-seo’s performance tinged with madness. This collaboration may go down as a new legend in Korean cinema.
Recommended similar/related works | For fans of “PROJECT Y”
If you love Korean noir that fuses thrills with human drama like “PROJECT Y (Project Y)”, here are recommendations. We’ve selected films with women-centered stories and stylishly depicted suspense that share a similar vibe.
1) “Burning” (2018)
A masterpiece of psychological suspense by Lee Chang-dong. Jeon Jong-seo plays the enigmatic heroine Hae-mi, who drew attention at Cannes. Like “PROJECT Y,” it explores youthful loneliness and society’s darkness. Streaming on U-NEXT.
2) “My Name” (2021)
A Netflix drama starring Han So-hee. A woman infiltrates the underworld to avenge her family, living between the police and crime syndicates. Shares “women’s lives × noir action” with “PROJECT Y.” Available on Netflix.
3) “Ballerina” (2023)
A Netflix original starring Jeon Jong-seo. A former bodyguard consumed by revenge single-handedly dismantles a crime organization in a shocking action thriller. Its blend of emotion and action echoes the intensity of “PROJECT Y.” Exclusive to Netflix.
4) “Escape from Mogadishu” (2021)
A suspense based on a true story of South and North Korean diplomats cooperating to flee civil-war-torn Somalia in 1991. It fuses social messaging with thrills, portraying people surviving in extremis. Streaming on U-NEXT.
5) “Veteran” (2015)
A rousing crime action starring Yoo Ah-in and Hwang Jung-min. While depicting a detective’s fight against a corrupt chaebol, it satirizes Korean society. Like “PROJECT Y,” its charm lies in social critique with thrilling entertainment. On U-NEXT and Netflix.
6) “The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion” (2018)
A psycho-suspense with unpredictable storytelling and intense action. The tale of a mysterious girl presents a woman-centered dark hero much like “PROJECT Y.” On U-NEXT.
7) “Night in Paradise” (2021)
A Netflix original about a man and woman burdened by sin and death on the run. Its visual elegance amid violence and quiet despair is striking, making it a popular tonal match to “PROJECT Y.” Watch on Netflix.
If you love “PROJECT Y,” also check the Korean noir trio “My Name” × “Burning” × “Ballerina”. They blend stylish visuals with strong social messages.
Check the buzz & reviews on social media! | PROJECT Y reactions roundup
“PROJECT Y (Project Y)” is already a major topic on Korean and Japanese social media ahead of its January 2026 release. Anticipation is especially high for the pairing of Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo, with reactions like “the visuals are theater-level stylish” and “a new era of female-led noir is here.”
Here, based on reactions from X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and movie community sites, we’ve scored the social buzz across five parameters.
PROJECT Y Social Review Scores (as of Oct 2025 — forecast)
| Category | Avg. Score (out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Story/Screenplay | 9.0 | “Great pacing with superb psychological portrayal,” “fresh take on a female buddy film.” |
| Acting/Characters | 9.5 | Han So-hee × Jeon Jong-seo are overwhelming. “Emotions show in their expressions alone,” “their conflict and bond are moving.” |
| Visuals/Direction | 9.2 | “Gangnam nightscapes are stunning,” “the light-dark contrast begs to be seen in theaters.” |
| Music/Atmosphere | 8.7 | Soundtrack by Korean hip-hop artists heightens the world. “Perfect balance of silence and heavy bass.” |
| Social/Message | 9.3 | “Real themes of youth despair hit hard,” “women standing up to society resonates.” |
Overall Score (out of 100)
Total: 92/100
After overseas preview screenings, comments like “a revolution in Korean noir” and “Han So-hee’s defining work” poured in, and film fans already call it the “most anticipated Korean film of 2026.” In Japan, notable comments include:
- “Jeon Jong-seo’s chilling performance gave me goosebumps!”
- “Han So-hee’s character is insanely cool.”
- “The visual polish is Netflix-level—must see in theaters!”
- “The music choices are so stylish, the trailer alone moved me to tears.”
- “A must for noir fans—the friendship and betrayal of two women feels real.”
As you can see, anticipation and passion are high even before release. When streaming starts, hashtags like “#PROJECTY,” “#HanSoHee,” and “#JeonJongSeo” are likely to trend.
“PROJECT Y” looks to be a masterpiece combining acting, visuals, and theme. Social buzz is strong, and it could become a defining Korean film of 2026.
—That’s the latest on “PROJECT Y” plus how to watch for free or on the cheap. When free streaming starts, enjoy it for a great deal on U-NEXT or Lemino 🎬
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