Director Ryu Seung-wan: "Korean Film Crisis? We Must Wake Up and Make Good Films"

Movie 'Milsu' Press Screening

Director Ryu Seung-wan (49) shared his thoughts on releasing two consecutive films following the COVID-19 pandemic, after 'Mogadishu' (2021), to revive the stagnant film industry.

On the afternoon of the 18th, at the press screening of the film 'Smugglers' (directed by Ryu Seung-wan) held at CGV Yongsan in Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Director Ryu emphasized, "Filmmakers must make good films."

Director Ryu Seung-wan Photo by Yonhap News

Director Ryu, who helmed films such as 'Berlin' (2013), 'Veteran' (2015), and 'The Battleship Island' (2017), attracted 3.61 million viewers with 'Mogadishu' during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when the theater atmosphere was frozen.

Returning after two years with 'Smugglers,' Director Ryu voiced his perspective on the changed film market. He said, "From dreaming of becoming a filmmaker and starting as the youngest on set, there has never been a moment in the film industry that was not difficult." He added, "Rather, we filmmakers have grown through crises."

Director Ryu recalled, "The explosive industrial growth of Korean cinema began when 'Shiri' (1999) succeeded during the IMF crisis (the 1997 financial crisis). At that time, the economy was tough, and the film industry was in crisis."

He continued, "Filmmakers need to consider ways to develop. In times of crisis, we must accept change, stay more focused, and create. Ultimately, if we stay true to the basics, we might find the answer."

The film 'Smugglers,' set to be released on the 26th, is a maritime crime action film about people who make a living by salvaging daily necessities thrown into the sea, who get caught up in a life-changing big event.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.