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Park Chan-wook’s ‘No Other Choice’ advances to Oscars shortlist

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By Kwon Mee-yoo
  • Published KST
  • Updated KST
Lee Byung-hun in a scene from 'No Other Choice' / Courtesy of CJ ENM

Lee Byung-hun in a scene from "No Other Choice" / Courtesy of CJ ENM

Park Chan-wook’s latest film, “No Other Choice,” moved a step closer to the Academy Awards after earning a place on the shortlist for best international feature film at the 98th Oscars, reinforcing Korean cinema’s continued presence on the global awards stage.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced shortlists in 12 categories Tuesday (local time). In the international feature film category, “No Other Choice” was included among 15 titles selected from submissions by 86 countries and regions.

The Korean entry faces a strong international lineup that includes Jafar Panahi’s “It Was Just an Accident” from France, Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” from Norway, Kleber Mendonça Filho’s “Secret Agent” from Brazil, Lee Sang-il’s “Kokuho” from Japan and Oliver Laxe’s “Sirat” from Spain.

“No Other Choice” follows a middle-aged man who is abruptly laid off after spending 25 years at the same company. As he struggles to regain stability, he resorts to extreme measures to eliminate rivals competing for the job he believes is his last chance. The film blends dark humor with tension, earning praise for its sharp style and its unflinching look at insecurity and loss beneath the thriller framework.

The film already drew international attention earlier in the awards season. It received Golden Globe nominations for Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy and Best Non-English Language Motion Picture. Lead actor Lee Byung-hun also earned a nomination for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy.

Korean culture also appeared in another Oscars category. “Golden,” a song from Netflix’s hit animated film “KPop Demon Hunters,” made the shortlist for Best Original Song, highlighting Korea’s growing presence across multiple fields of global entertainment.

The final Oscar nominations will be announced Jan. 22, with the awards ceremony scheduled for March 15.