Korea admissions driven by multiplex growth.(motion picture theaters)(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

Growth in Korea's cinema admissions is set to increase significantly this year following major development of multiplex sector. In 2000, Korean market recorded 64.6m admissions and around $270m in box office; in first nine months of 2001, box office has already passed this figure. Growth is being driven by rapid increase in screen numbers, particularly in multiplexes. At end 2000, there were 720 screens in South Korea, up 22.4 per cent on previous year and huge 45 per cent on 1997.

Three multiplex operators are behind this screen growth: CGV joint venture between CJ Entertainment and Village Roadshow, Megabox Cineplex--venture between Loews Cineplex and local groups …