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What to do this weekend: Korean International Ocean Film Festival
source: kioff.kr
From June 18 to 21, the Korea International Ocean Film Festival will take place at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu District. As Korea’s only ocean-themed film festival, it is uniquely suited to Busan’s identity and natural setting as a maritime city.
Now in its ninth year, this festival has grown into a meaningful cultural platform, introducing audiences to a diverse selection of films that offer thoughtful perspectives on the marine environment, ocean ecology and the relationship between humans and the sea.
Through works by filmmakers from Korea and around the world, it continues to raise awareness of marine issues while encouraging fresh ways of thinking about the ocean and its future. This year’s edition, themed “Standing Before the Sea,” features 47 films from 15 countries.
Two films have been selected as the opening works: “All Eyes on Antarctica,” a documentary directed by Kathryn Francis and Campbell Brewer of the U.K., and “Antarctica-Domain One” by Argentine brothers Joaquín Azulay and Julián Azulay. By highlighting Antarctica's ecological importance and global significance, both films underscore the urgent need to protect the world’s oceans. Exploring one of Earth’s most fragile environments, each film introduces audiences to the continent’s remarkable ecosystems and its vital role in regulating the global climate. Together, they leave viewers with a powerful reminder that safeguarding Antarctica is essential to the future of both humanity and the planet.
The closing film, “A Life Illuminated,” directed by Tasha Van Zandt of the United States, follows the extraordinary journey of renowned marine biologist Dr. Edie Widder. The documentary chronicles her lifelong quest to explore and document the mysteries of deep-sea bioluminescence, showcasing the beauty of marine life while highlighting the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems.
Beyond the screenings, visitors can take part in engaging programs such as Meet the Director sessions and talk shows with professionals from the marine field. A variety of ocean-themed experiences, including an immersive marine-environment booth and a special crafts market, will also offer opportunities to continue exploring the festival’s themes beyond the screen.
Tickets for all screenings are priced at 5,000 won and are available through the official Busan Cinema Center website as well as on site. For more information on the schedule and featured films, please visit the festival’s website linked below.
※ Korea International Ocean Film Festival (KIOFF), June 18 to 21
◎ Busan Cinema Center: 120 Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu
◎ Google Maps: Click
◎ Website: Click
◎ Ticket Purchases via the Busan Cinema Center: Click
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