The heightened interest in Korean food--thanks to the hit historical drama Jewel in the Palace (Daejanggeum)--is raising the popularity of the Korean film 'Freeloader (Sikgaek).'

Premiered at the Busan International Film Festival last week, the film grabbed the attention of major buyers from China, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore.

Based on the same-titled hit comic by famed cartoonist Heo Young-man, it is the story of two Joseon era chefs vying for the coveted title of the dynasty's last court chef.

An array of colorful court dishes appearing in the film has been compared to those in Daejanggeum, backing its prospective popularity to Asian viewers. With good reviews at the Pusan festival's Asian Film Market, export deals are expected to come soon.

The film opens in Korea on November 1.