Kwak Yeon-soo is a digital editor at The Korea Times creating, editing and curating digital content for the newspaper’s website, mobile app and social media. She previously covered a diverse array of cultural, political and business topics.
Jeonju film fest announces 10 indie films in Korean competition, all tackling social problems
The poster for the 22nd Jeonju International Film Festival / Courtesy of Jeonju IFF
By Kwak Yeon-soo
By Kwak Yeon-soo
Jeonju International Film Festival organizers announced on Friday 10 feature films that will compete in the Korean Competition category this year. The list, selected from 108 submissions, includes eight fictional films and two documentaries.
“The current trend of Korea's independent films is sharply observing and tackling social problems and taboos. The 10 selections expose injustice or the absurdity of society, and show support for the marginalized,” said Moon Seok, the programmer of the JIFF.
Among the lineup of finalists, “Awoke,” by Jung Jae-ik and Seo Tae-soo, and “Corydoras,” by Ryu Hyung-seok, depict the lives of disabled people. “Coming to You,” by Byun Gyu-ri is a documentary that features LGBTQ issues.
“Aloners,” by Hong Sung-eun, is linked to the increase of single-person households in Korea, while “First Child,” by Hur Jung-jae, delves into the life of a married woman. “Influenza,” by Hwang Jun-ha, revolves around workplace ostracism among nurses, an issue that recently became a hot potato in society. “The Train Passed By,” by Kam Jeong-won, centers on industrial workers and their poor working conditions.
“Not Out,” by Lee Jung-gon, “Kim Min-young of reportcard,” by Lee Jae-eun and Lim Ji-sun, and “Nineteen,” by Woo Kyeng-hee, capture the frustration and anger of young Koreans about today's hopeless reality.
The festival will hold physical screenings of its competition titles from April 29 to May 8 in the Jeonju area.