sipffen

Discovering and Showcasing New Korean Queer Films

Programmer’s Picks: <Anthropology 101>, <Unfinished>, <Holy Family>, <Wishing in the Wind>, <After That>, <Slap>, <Shaolongbao>, <Melancholy Inside the Magenta Swimming Cap>

The Korea PRIDE Section consistently receives enthusiastic responses, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the distinct charm and originality of Korean queer cinema. This section also aims to strengthen the Korean queer film industry by spotlighting emerging directors and actors. This year’s competition lineup features several high-quality Korean queer short films.

<Anthropology 101>, directed by KIM Junhyung, tells the story of a middle-aged professor who, along with his young son, visits the home of his ex-wife, now living with her lesbian partner. CHOI Sora’s <Unfinished> follows a couple and a friend as they set out on a summer vacation. YANG Seung-woo’s <Holy Family > depicts a family’s journey to settle an inheritance following their grandfather’s passing.

<Wishing in the Wind>, co-directed by KIM Hye-in and KIM Joong-hoe, explores the emotional upheaval of a protagonist who, upon returning to their hometown, encounters a former lover. SEO Han-ul’s <After That> follows a protagonist filming a documentary. Lastly, <Slap>, directed by RYU Hyeong-jun and JEON Ah-hyun, follows a professional stunt actor specializing in slap scenes who unexpectedly meets a former high school friend as his scene partner.

CHOI Jeongyoon’s <Shaolongbao> is an animated film about a Chinese opera performer who puts on a one-person show to comfort a boy he secretly loves. <Melancholy Inside the Magenta Swimming Cap>, directed by LEE Gain, takes place in a swimming pool and captures the turbulent emotions of a protagonist fixated on rankings and another who harbors a hidden affection for her. This year’s Korean picks are characterized by their realistic themes, infused with each director’s creative, fresh approach.

This year’s Korean PRIDE is packed with films sure to satisfy audiences who love Korean queer cinema. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience 40 remarkable films that showcase the potential of Korean queer cinema.