OPEN PRIDE

A section introducing films about diverse human values and rights, promoting coexistence and solidarity.

Theme of the Year: Queer in Sports and Politics 

Programmer’s Recommendation: State of Firsts

The Open Pride section was established in 2018 to raise awareness of the rights of sexual minorities and other marginalized groups, and to explore the possibilities of coexistence and solidarity. This year’s theme, Sports and Politics, is presented in collaboration with Chingusai (Korean Gay Men’s Human Rights Group).

This program highlights how sports can transcend competition to become a forum for social values and political discourse.
In recent years, global discussions around transgender athletes and fairness have intensified, as gender, human rights, and politics increasingly intersect both inside and outside the arena.
Around the 2024 Paris Olympics, these debates drew worldwide attention, reframing gender issues in sports as questions of social choice rather than isolated events.
This special showcase invites Korean audiences to reflect on the relationship between sports, gender, and politics through a contemporary perspective.

Among the featured works, State of Firsts by Chase JOYNT(Director) follows Sarah McBride(Politician), the first openly transgender U.S. state senator, documenting her campaign and political journey.

The film explores the social and political significance of transgender representation and participation, connecting to global debates surrounding sports, gender, and fairness.

Following the screening of State of Firsts on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 17:35, a guest visit (GV) titled Winning with Identity will feature transgender individuals with political experience.
The discussion will explore how Korea can foster queer political leadership and establish institutional foundations for advancing LGBTQ+ rights.
Beyond a simple screening, this event will serve as a meaningful platform for dialogue on the present and future of queer politics in Korea.

Since its inception, the Seoul International PRIDE Film Festival has collaborated with numerous organizations to present socially resonant themes:
In 2018, with Amnesty International, 'conscientious refusal of military service and allowing alternative service'

In 2019, with KARA, the theme of "Animal Rights Issue"

In 2020, along with the migration to Asian Peace (MAP), we introduced various works on the theme of 'refugee',

In 2021, to mark the 35th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear accident and the 10th anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear accident, the theme of "denuclearization" was with the denuclearization newspaper,

In 2022, the Seoul Disabled Human Rights Film Festival and Disability presented various works with voices of coexistence and solidarity under the theme of Prohibited Love with Amnesty International in 2023, and Proud to be Prepped with the Acting Group in 2024.

Each year, Open Pride continues to amplify the voices of coexistence and solidarity through powerful cinematic storytelling.