Yeongjinwi Supports COVID-19 Prevention at Film Production Sites... 150 Million Won Scale

by Lee Jonggil

Published 15 Apr.2020 15:44(KST)

Updated 15 Apr.2020 15:57(KST)

"Separate Support for Films Already Affected... Announcement Expected as Early as This Week"

Yeongjinwi Supports COVID-19 Prevention at Film Production Sites... 150 Million Won Scale

[Asia Economy Reporter Jonggil Lee] The Korean Film Council announced on the 15th that it will support disinfection measures worth 150 million KRW for film production sites struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The support targets domestic feature films currently in production. Disinfection costs will be covered up to a maximum of 10 million KRW per project. This includes disinfection by professional companies, operation of thermal imaging cameras, supplies for self-disinfection (disinfection devices, disinfectants, disposable workwear, gloves), and deployment of safety management personnel at filming sites.

The Korean Film Council will pay the costs for disinfection and thermal imaging cameras directly to the respective service providers. Safety management fees are up to 10,000 KRW per person per hour. Production companies are not allowed to appoint staff as safety management personnel. Designated personnel must receive COVID-19 safety management training provided by the Korean Film Council.

Films whose representatives are involved in disputes such as wage arrears or have violated various agreements and contracts are excluded from this support. Production companies, distributors, directors, etc., with debts to the Korean Film Council must resolve these issues before applying. The Korean Film Council stated, "Even for projects that have received support funds, if disqualifying reasons are found later, the support decision may be canceled or the funds reclaimed."

This support does not apply retroactively to films that proceeded with filming despite COVID-19 damages over the past two months. Regarding this, a Korean Film Council official said, "The government’s film industry support measures announced on the 1st include plans to assist these films. We are establishing detailed implementation plans through discussions with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and film industry personnel. An announcement may be made as early as this week."