KOREA PRIDE

A section dedicated to discovering and 

presenting newly produced queer films from Korea. 

Korea PRIDE -  Feature

Programmer’s Recommendations: 

I am Happy, Summer's Camera, TELL ME THAT YOU LOVE ME 

The Korea PRIDE section has become one of the most beloved programs of the Seoul International PRIDE Film Festival, offering audiences a vibrant glimpse into the creativity and diversity of contemporary Korean queer cinema. Even within an independent production environment, Korean queer filmmakers continue to capture themes of love, relationships, identity, and social issues through unique and personal perspectives. The section provides a rare opportunity to experience Korean queer feature films on the big screen, serving as a space to reflect on both the present and the future of queer cinema in Korea.

SHIN Seung-eun(Director)’s new film I Am Happy begins with cheerful and energetic freelance voice actor Moon Haet-nim receiving an unexpected diagnosis of depression. Although she provides the voice of the animated character “Happymong” and always smiles outwardly, she faces emotional turbulence within. SHIN delicately captures the tension between outward happiness and inner melancholy through humor and warmth, illustrating the complexities of human emotion and the small ironies of daily life. The film’s exploration of emotional diversity and self-understanding naturally resonates with queer audiences. SHIN previously won the Best Korean Short Film Award at the 19th Seoul International PRIDE Film Festival  with her short Mother-in-law (2019).

Divine SUNG(Director)’s feature debut Summer’s Camera sensitively portrays queer identity and the emotional subtleties of adolescence. Centered on a high school student named Summer and their tender, confusing encounters with a friend, Yeon-woo, the film maintains an intimate emotional tone within its bright and hopeful atmosphere. Through careful use of the camera, SUNG visualizes the shifting feelings and tensions of youth, creating a warm and immersive portrait of self-discovery. Having opened the 8th Summer PRIDE Cinema, the film has already proven its artistic and audience appeal, heightening anticipation for its screening at SIPFF.

KIM JHO Gwang-soo(Director)’s fourth feature TELL ME THAT YOU LOVE ME follows two men—Kyung-il and Kyung-ho—who meet by chance through a used camera transaction, sparking a delicate and heartfelt connection.
Moving beyond the conventions of gay romance, the film explores the warmth and sincerity that persist even amid realistic conflicts and emotional hesitation. With its tender portrayal of love, uncertainty, separation, and reunion, the film offers a deeply emotional reflection for audiences anticipating authentic Korean queer romance.
As one of Asia’s few directors devoted exclusively to queer cinema, KIM’s new work is expected to draw great attention and affection from both fans and critics.