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- Programmer Chun Jinsu stated, “Since December 3, 2024, democracy in South Korea has faced a crisis, and the resulting chaos and aftermath remain uncertain.”
- Six documentaries exploring political turmoil around the world—some chronicling past events, others reflecting ongoing struggles that mirror the challenges we face today!
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The JEONJU International Film Festival (JEONJU IFF, Festival Co-Directors Min Sungwook and Jung Junho) announces Again, Towards Democracy section.
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| ▲ The JEONJU IFF Press Conference on April 1 |
On April 1 (Tue), the 26th JEONJU IFF unveiled the Again, Towards Democracy section during the Press Conference. Programmer Chun Jinsu explained the program’s objective, stating, “Since December 3, 2024, democracy in South Korea has faced a crisis, and the resulting chaos and aftermath remain uncertain.” On April 4 (Fri), under the Constitutional Court’s ruling, the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol was finalized. This program reflects the hope and anticipation for the recovery and continuity of Korean democracy.
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| ▲ From the left: And So It Begins, Sudan, Remember Us, Ms. President |
Again, Towards Democracy presents six documentaries that explore political turmoil around the world—some from the past, and others reflecting current realities that resonate with the challenges Korea faces today.
The Philippines, for example, is no stranger to democratic crises. In March, former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on charges of crimes against humanity. His former Vice President, Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, launched a grassroots movement in pursuit of a better future and ran in the following presidential election. Though her aspirations were momentarily halted by the rise of far-right populism, Robredo continues to keep the flame of hope alive in And So It Begins.
Sudan, Remember Us recounts the tumultuous recent history of Sudan through the experiences of several young people. In 2019, Sudanese citizens—especially young women—took to the streets to overthrow a 30-year dictatorship and challenge patriarchy. Although their dreams of a better future were crushed by a military coup, the documentary testifies that their courage and sacrifice were not in vain.
Likewise, Ms. President evokes both hope and sorrow. Zuzana Čaputová, a human rights lawyer, became president of Slovakia in 2019 after leading a movement against corruption. She fought to restore democracy but ultimately chose not to seek re-election, returning to private life.
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| ▲ From the left: The Last Republican, At this Moment, in the Nation's Sky, Norwegian Democrazy |
Among the selected films, The Last Republican by Steve Pink, At this Moment, in the Nation’s Sky by Sandra Kogut, and Norwegian Democrazy by Fabien Greenberg and Bård Kjøge Rønning reflect Korea’s current situation, illustrating moments of democratic crisis in an era of extreme polarization.
In the United States, The Last Republican follows Adam Kinzinger, a Republican Congressman who voted to impeach Donald Trump following the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. The documentary chronicles Kinzinger’s journey from the aftermath of the riot to the end of his term, raising questions about how politicians can maintain integrity and foster bipartisan dialogue in deeply divided times.
At this Moment, in the Nation’s Skycaptures the volatile political climate in Brazil, from the 2022 presidential election to the ensuing events, including allegations of election fraud and far-right supporters storming the Capitol and Supreme Court following President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s inauguration. Kogut documents these dramatic political events, underscoring the deep divisions within the nation.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Democrazy explores how ongoing civil wars, territorial disputes, and ethnic cleansing have displaced millions worldwide, contributing to the global refugee crisis—including in Norway. The documentary delves into the rise of hate speech against Muslims in Norway, showing how the misuse of free speech is threatening the nation’s democratic values.
Audiences attending Again, Towards Democracy will also have opportunities to engage with directors and guests through special programs. Director Sandra Kogut (At this Moment, in the Nation’s Sky) will participate in Guest Visits (GV).
For more information on the Again, Towards Democracy, visit the official JEONJU IFF website (https://eng.jeonjufest.kr/). Screenings of the six films and accompanying events will be held from April 30 (Wed) to May 9 (Fri) throughout Jeonju.
| The 26th JEONJU IFF Again, Towards Democracy List |
| Title |
Director |
Country |
| And So It Begins |
Ramona S. DIAZ |
United States, Philippines |
| At this Moment, in the Nation's Sky |
Sandra KOGUT |
Brazil |
| The Last Republican |
Steve PINK |
United States |
| Ms. President |
Marek ŠULÍK |
Slovakia, Czech Republic |
| Norwegian Democrazy |
Fabien GREENBERG,
Bård KJØGE RØNNING |
Norway |
| Sudan, Remember Us |
Hind MEDDEB |
France, Tunisia, Qatar |
** 6 titles, alphabetical order
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