The Birth of Korea
The Birth of Korea (Korean: 건국전쟁; Hanja: 建國戰爭) is a 2024 South Korean documentary film directed by Kim Deog-young, depicting the life of Syngman Rhee, the South Korea's first president. The film was released on February 1, 2024. As a low-budget independent documentary, the movie was a huge box office success, reaching number three at the South Korean box office. The film received strong praise and support from South Korean conservative politicians and celebrities.[1][2] South Korea's opposition Democratic Party accused the film of ignoring the dictatorship and corruption that characterized Syngman Rhee's reign.[3] The analysis by NK News accused the content of the film of distorting historical facts and aiming to glorify Syngman Rhee and recast him as a national hero.[4][5]
The movie's sequel, The Birth of Korea 2, is scheduled for release in 2025.[6]
References[edit]
- ^ Kang, Hyun-kyung (2024-02-16). "'Birth of Korea': Filmmaker's ode to South Korea's first president". The Korea Times. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ Moon, Sy-moon (2024-02-29). "'There is tragedy, but ultimately there is victory': Conservative political film 'The Birth of Korea' causes a stir". Korea JoongAng Daily. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ Lee, Soo-jung (2024-02-21). "Seoul mayor jumps into Syngman Rhee documentary's ideological minefield". Korea JoongAng Daily. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ A. Engel, Benjamin (2024-02-27). "Cinema and controversy merge in South Korea's historical debate". NK News. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ Bernal, Gabriela (2024-03-05). "New film champions ROK's first president, and his hardline stance on North Korea". NK News. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ Kim, Da-sol (2024-02-29). "'The Birth of Korea' sequel to be released next year". The Korea Times. Retrieved 13 May 2024.