 ▲ 1st Seoul Hangang International Film Festival Award Ceremony |
[Seoul, South Korea – November 3, 2024] The inaugural Seoul Hangang International Film Festival concluded its four-day run with a grand awards ceremony and celebratory performances at the Seoul City Hall Auditorium on November 3, 2024. This momentous event, held from October 31 to November 3, paid homage to the historic revolutionary movements that played a pivotal role in shaping South Korea’s modern democracy.
Inspired by the April 19th Revolution (4.19), the Jeju April 3rd Uprising, and the May 18 Gwangju Uprising, the festival symbolized the enduring legacy of freedom, justice, and democracy in the country. The festival not only celebrated cinema but also recognized the individuals and movements that paved the way for the democratic values cherished in modern Korea.
A highlight of the event was the participation of members from the 4.19 Revolution Merit Association Seoul Branch. These revolutionaries, who were instrumental in Korea’s push for democracy, joined actors on the red carpet, walking hand-in-hand. This touching gesture served as a poignant reminder of Korea’s history and the sacrifices made for the country’s democratic future, creating an atmosphere of reverence and unity.
 ▲ 1st Seoul Hangang International Film Festival Red Carpet |
Celebrating Excellence in Film
The festival honored Kim Dong-eun(김동은) with the Grand Prize for his outstanding work, while audiences were treated to a special screening of the invited film Flame of April(4월의불꽃). The festival showcased films that highlighted important social issues, blending the power of cinema with the deeper themes of freedom, democracy, and justice.
 ▲ Flame Of April Poster |
The successful staging of the first Seoul Hangang International Film Festival owes much to the leadership of Song Young-shin(송영신), Director and CEO of Red Panorama, the festival’s organizing company. Song emphasized the festival’s mission to promote truth through cinema and expressed a strong commitment to supporting the next generation of filmmakers who strive to tell authentic and meaningful stories. “We will spare no investment for young filmmakers who make films with sincerity and truth,” said Song during the closing remarks.
Kim Seon-dam(김선담), co-chair of the organizing committee and head of the 4.19 Revolution Merit Association Seoul Branch, underscored the importance of continuing the fight for freedom and democracy. He expressed gratitude for the success of the festival, reiterating the commitment to passing on the values of liberty and justice to future generations through this cultural platform.
Oh Shin-hwan(오신환), Chair of the Festival Organizing Committee, delivered a powerful closing speech that left the audience inspired. “We must continue our endless efforts to complete democracy in South Korea and support the future of the film industry,” said Oh, as his words resonated with the attending dignitaries, filmmakers, and guests.
A Bright Future for Cinema and Democracy
The festival ended with a strong sense of hope and inspiration. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the festival’s dedication to democracy and the arts, lingering after the screening of the Grand Prize film to continue discussing its themes and messages. As the curtain closed on this first edition, the festival promised an even more impactful and emotionally stirring event in the years to come.
With its unique blend of historical reverence and cinematic excellence, the 1st Seoul Hangang International Film Festival has set a high bar, leaving audiences and participants eagerly anticipating next year’s edition.
