Robert Downey Jr. Returns to Marvel as Doctor Doom as 'Avengers: Doomsday' Builds Buzz in South Korea
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Marvel's upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday is generating growing attention in South Korea, where promotional campaigns, limited-edition restaurant menus and confirmed appearances by two of the franchise's biggest stars have pushed the movie's title into trending search results.
The film opens in South Korean theaters Dec. 16, two days before its scheduled U.S. release on Dec. 18. The latest promotional activity has also extended into gaming, advertising and the country's restaurant industry.
Fifth Avengers film brings Robert Downey Jr. back as Doctor Doom
Produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, Avengers: Doomsday follows 2019's Avengers: Endgame. It is the 39th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the third installment of Phase Six and the fifth live-action Avengers movie.
Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, the film follows heroes from three different universes as they confront Doctor Doom amid a multiverse collapse. The screenplay was written by Michael Waldron and Stephen McFeely. Production took place at Pinewood Studios in the United Kingdom and wrapped Sept. 19, 2025.
One of the film's biggest talking points is Robert Downey Jr.'s return to the MCU. After playing Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man, from 2008's Iron Man through Avengers: Endgame, Downey will now portray the villain Victor von Doom, better known as Doctor Doom.
Downey announced the casting at San Diego Comic-Con, declaring, 'New mask, same task.' He said he enjoys playing complex characters. Joe Russo said the actor was deeply involved in developing the role, including ideas for Doctor Doom's backstory and costume.
Russo described Doctor Doom as a character with formidable presence and energy, contrasting him with Thanos. While Thanos was like an unstoppable force of nature, Russo said, Doctor Doom is more cunning and calculating.
Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth to visit South Korea
Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth are scheduled to visit South Korea Dec. 7 alongside Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige. The group will attend a news conference and red-carpet event ahead of the film's release.
For Evans, who played Captain America, the trip marks his first South Korean visit for a Marvel production in 11 years. Hemsworth, who portrays Thor, will be visiting the country for the first time.
The franchise has already demonstrated considerable box-office appeal in South Korea: Three Avengers films have each surpassed 10 million admissions. That makes the new installment's potential to become the series' fourth film to reach the milestone a point of local interest.
Restaurants and advertisers join the promotional campaign
South Korea's restaurant industry is also using the movie's release to attract customers. Outback Steakhouse, operated by Dining Brands Group, partnered with Walt Disney Company Korea on a limited-edition menu announced Nov. 11.
The centerpiece is the Tomahawk Avengers: Doomsday Edition, a set featuring tomahawk steak alongside salad, pasta, drinks and dessert. The themed beverage combines omija, a Korean five-flavor berry, with matcha. The dessert, called Avengers: Doomsday Dark Dome Ice Cream, combines chocolate and brownie.
Outback released a teaser video Nov. 2 and a full promotional video Nov. 10. Participating restaurants also feature movie-themed photo zones and decorations. KFC has introduced five limited-edition items featuring Doctor Doom, while a Doctor Doom-themed popcorn bucket has also been announced.
Promotional videos have attracted substantial attention on YouTube. As of Nov. 11, a Dunkin' Munchkins advertisement featuring Channing Tatum, released Nov. 4, had received approximately 3.41 million views. A Jeep advertisement released Nov. 6 had about 2.09 million views, while the promotional clip 'Gambit Meets Herbie,' released Nov. 4, had approximately 1.91 million. A Japanese-dubbed video posted Nov. 5 had reached about 1.09 million views.
Marvel Rivals launches its Doomsday season
The Doomsday name is also appearing in gaming. NetEase Games' Marvel-based player-versus-player shooter Marvel Rivals is scheduled to launch its 11th season, titled 'Doomsday,' on Nov. 13.
The update introduces two characters: Nightcrawler, the teleporting X-Men hero, and Dracula, a villain. Nightcrawler will serve as a Strategist-class support character. His ultimate ability can reposition teammates and pull enemies within a designated area toward him.
Additional events are planned in South Korea. A Galaxy Center featuring six minigames will open at Times Square on Nov. 19. On Nov. 26, the game will add an 18-versus-18 mode called Chrono Annihilation, along with a dedicated map named Incursion Point.
Players who complete the global second-anniversary event missions will receive 2,500 Units and a free Legendary Deadpool costume. Meanwhile, 12 teams, including South Korea-linked Reject, are set to compete in the finals of the global Ignite 2026 esports event.
The film's title carries a double meaning. 'Doomsday' traditionally refers to the Day of Judgment, but it also evokes Doctor Doom, the story's central antagonist. That combination of a major Marvel comeback, returning franchise stars and coordinated promotions has made the film a prominent topic across South Korean entertainment and gaming.
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