Baek Byung-yeul is a journalist at The Korea Times focused on cultural content, including films and cultural events in South Korea. You can contact him at baekby@koreatimes.co.kr to share your insights.
Netflix's 1st Korean animated film 'Lost in Starlight' set for May release
A scene from Netflix’s upcoming animated film “Lost in Starlight” / Courtesy of Netflix
By Baek Byung-yeul
Netflix is gearing up to release its first Korean animated feature film, "Lost in Starlight," with the global premiere scheduled for May 30. The streaming giant unveiled a teaser poster and a trailer for the highly anticipated film on Tuesday.
"Lost in Starlight" is written and directed by Han Ji-won and features the voices of acclaimed actors Kim Tae-ri and Hong Kyung.
Set in Seoul in the year 2050, the film weaves a romantic tale between Nan-young (voiced by Kim), a determined astronaut with dreams of Martian exploration, and Jay (Hong), a gifted musician who has temporarily set aside his artistic ambitions. Their initial encounter blossoms into a heartfelt journey as they navigate their personal aspirations and a burgeoning love for each other.
“They gaze affectionately at each other, setting the stage for this love story that has traveled 225 million kilometers to melt our hearts,” Netflix said in a statement.
The poster captivates with its blend of pink and twilight hues, setting a tender scene for a romantic moment between Nan-young and Jay. The accompanying tagline, "Never forget. Somewhere in this universe, there is someone always supporting you," further emphasizes the film's emotional core.
The newly released trailer provides a glimpse into the film's narrative, opening with the fateful encounter of the two lovers. Nan-young’s quest to repair her late mother's cherished turntable leads her to Jay's audio equipment repair shop, setting in motion a series of events that gradually bring them closer.
According to Netflix, director Bong Joon-ho lauded the film, saying, “This visual masterpiece takes you around the universe.”
A poster for Netflix’s upcoming animation “Lost in Starlight” / Courtesy of Netflix
The trailer also showcases the potential beauty of Seoul in the near future, rendered through the director’s unique artistic lens.
Familiar landmarks such as Sewoon Plaza and Jamsu Bridge are depicted in captivating detail, providing a backdrop for the charming interactions between Nan-young and Jay in the early stages of their relationship.
"Lost in Starlight" marks a milestone for Han, a rising star in the Korean animation scene. Her previous 2010 short film, "Kopi Luwak," garnered critical acclaim, winning the Grand Prize at the Seoul Independent Animation Film Festival. Her work has also received international recognition, earning invitations to prestigious events like the Sundance Film Festival and the Palm Springs International Film Festival for her 2022 film, "The Sea on the Day When the Magic Returns."