The Korean Academy of Film Arts (KAFA) has long been a breeding ground for some of Korea’s most visionary filmmakers, shaping the likes of Bong Joon-ho, Jang Joon-hwan, Ryoo Seung-wan, and more. For our Opening Night on May 22, we are proud to present two KAFA-backed films that showcase the evolution of Korean cinema—from a young Bong Joon-ho’s sharp social satire to Jang Man-min’s strikingly surreal storytelling.

‍

Incoherence (Bong Joon-ho, 1994, 30 min) – KAFA PresentsBefore Parasite and Memories of Murder, Bong Joon-ho honed his craft at KAFA, where he directed Incoherence as his thesis film. A biting satire on social hypocrisy, the film weaves together three seemingly disconnected vignettes—an academic caught in an embarrassing scandal, a jogger behaving strangely in a park, and a man casually stealing milk—before delivering a punchline that forces us to question our contradictions. Incoherence is an early glimpse into Bong’s signature style: sharp social critique, dark humor, and a masterful buildup to an unforgettable climax. This film is not just an early work—it’s a window into the mind of a future master.

‍

Silver Apricot (Jang Man-min, 2023, 28 min) – KAFA PresentsJang Man-min, one of Korea’s most promising emerging directors, also developed her craft at KAFA, where she created the mesmerizing Silver Apricot. The film follows a man who becomes haunted by an apricot tree that mysteriously appears everywhere he goes. His growing paranoia leads him on a surreal journey through memory, fate, and the inescapable past.Silver Apricot is a visually stunning and deeply unsettling meditation on guilt and destiny, influenced by Korean folklore, existential horror, and dream logic. Jang’s bold direction signals a new generation of KAFA-trained filmmakers ready to push the boundaries of storytelling.

Experience this exclusive 12th KFFC cinematic event on our Opening Night!

‍

Ticket sales start on April 7th, secure your tickets as soon as you can!