French Cinema Week 2026 expands nationwide for 140 years of France-Korea ties

Poster image of French Cinema Week 2026 / Courtesy of Embassy of France in Korea

French Cinema Week 2026 will return this spring with an expanded nationwide program, to mark the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Korea.

Supported by TV5MONDE and other sponsors, the event will run from April 24 to May 10 across Seoul, Busan, Gwangju and Incheon.

Now in its sixth edition since launching in 2021, French Cinema Week has established itself as a key cultural platform for Korean cinephiles.

The 2026 lineup showcases a diverse range of voices and styles in contemporary French cinema. This year’s program reflects its growing scale and ambition, presenting 10 critically acclaimed French films that have never been released in Korea.

Featured titles include "The Little Sister" directed by Hafsia Herzi, "The Great Arch" by Stephane Demoustier, "Meteors" by Hubert Charuel, and "Animale" by Emma Benestan. Other highlights include "Queens of Drama" by Alexis Langlois, "Dandelion’s Odyssey" by Momoko Seto and "That Summer in Paris" by Valentine Cadic.

The selection includes works recognized at major international film festivals including Cannes, Berlin and Locarno.

Beyond screenings, audiences will have the opportunity to engage more deeply with the films through guest visit sessions with filmmakers and industry professionals. These discussions aim to provide insight into the creative processes behind the works and foster dialogue between French cinema and Korean audiences.

Actress Kim Shin-rok / Courtesy of Embassy of France in Korea

Acclaimed Korean actor Kim Shin-rok has been appointed ambassador for this year’s event. During the festival, Kim will participate in talk sessions and promotional activities, offering audiences a unique opportunity for direct interaction.

Widely recognized for her compelling performances on both stage and screen, most notably in the global hit Netflix series "Hellbound," Kim continues to gain international attention.

She has also been invited to this year’s Cannes Film Festival, running from May 12 to 23, as a star of "Colony," directed by Yeon Sang-ho, which has been selected for the Midnight Screening section of the 79th edition.

French Cinema Week screenings will take place at venues including Seoul Art Cinema, Artnine, Busan Cinema Center, Gwangju Independent Film Theater and Cinespace Juan. Tickets are available through each cinema’s website, with additional details provided on the official festival site.