Korean Cinema & Film Chronicles

Independent Cinema

Director Han Chang-rok: An Interview on Independent Cinema and Confronting the Uncomfortable

Korean director Han Chang‑rok focuses his gaze on the uncomfortable corners of society that many prefer to avoid. His films blend raw emotion, the restless energy of youth, and a sharp observational eye. After Busan and Taipei, he will also appear at the Korean Film Festival Frankfurt this October — carrying an artistic stance that remains independent, curious, and deeply human.

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Film Festival • Germany

Between Jeong and Passion: Behind the Scenes of the Korean Film Festival Frankfurt

The Korean Film Festival Frankfurt celebrates its 15th edition from October 20 to 25, showcasing a diverse selection of Korean cinema ranging from major blockbusters to intimate indie gems. Led by a passionate young team, the festival continues to strengthen cultural exchange in Germany by highlighting new voices, creative perspectives, and the evolving landscape of Korean filmmaking.

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Korean Cinema with AI

Antonia Kim

Antonia Kim, founder of AITONIA and former director at KBS, explores a new form of cinema where artificial intelligence becomes a tool to amplify human emotion. With K‑Epic Trilogy, she creates a historical universe connected by universal themes and a philosophy she calls the “Art of Connection.”

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Jeonju International Film Festival

Min Sung-wook

Min Sung‑wook, Co‑Director of the Jeonju International Film Festival, reflects on the key directions of the 2026 edition, shaped by an avant‑garde spirit and strong support for independent cinema. He explains the evolution of the competitive sections, the challenges of reconnecting with audiences in the post‑pandemic era, and the international vision of a festival that produces, nurtures, and reinvents auteur filmmaking.

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Independent Cinema Producer

Shim Jae-myung

A major figure in Korean cinema, producer Shim Jae‑myung shares her perspective on the international competition of the Jeonju International Film Festival. She discusses the boldness of young filmmakers, the challenges of independent cinema, and the evolution of Korea’s cinematic landscape. Through diversity, experimentation, and support for creators, she outlines the essential issues shaping the future of cinema.

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Korean-American Cinema

Andrew Ahn

Creating Culture Through Truth: The Heart of Andrew Ahn’s Cinema explores the deeply human and emotionally resonant filmmaking of director Andrew Ahn, whose work has become a vital voice in contemporary Korean‑American cinema. Through intimate storytelling, nuanced characters, and a commitment to authenticity, Ahn’s films illuminate themes of identity, family, and belonging with rare sensitivity.

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Documentary & Climate

June-ho Lee

June‑ho Lee’s documentary explores the coastlines of Gangwon, weaving together Joseon‑era maritime traditions, fragile biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change. Awarded at the Korea Broadcasting Journalist Awards and selected for SCINEMA 2026, the film offers an immersive investigation stretching from Yangyang to the DMZ. Thanks to direct access to the documentary, this interview delves into the depth and significance of his work.

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New York Asian Film Festival

Samuel Jamier

At the heart of the New York Asian Film Festival, Korean cinema continues to stand out as one of the most dynamic and influential forces shaping the event. In this exclusive interview, Samuel Jamier, President of the NYAFF Foundation, reflects on the festival’s mission, the growing global impact of Korean filmmakers, and the unique storytelling power that captivates audiences in New York. His insights highlight how Korean cinema is not only evolving but redefining cultural dialogue across borders.

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BIFAN Programmer

Thomas Nam

As BIFAN celebrates its 30th anniversary, the festival continues to redefine the future of Asian genre cinema. Programmer Thomas Nam offers an in‑depth look at BIFAN’s mission, its long‑standing commitment to emerging filmmakers, and the creative trends shaping the fantastic film landscape across Asia. This feature takes you behind the scenes of one of the world’s most influential genre film festivals, where innovation, diversity, and bold storytelling come together.

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