(=Busan) During a press conference for the opening film 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' at the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), questions arose regarding the film 'Assassins,' which faced cancellation due to recent historical distortion controversies. However, festival officials quickly deflected these inquiries.
The press conference, held on October 6 at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae, featured director Kim Jong-kwan and actors Shim Eun-kyung, Kim Min-ha, Joo Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Jang Ryul, Jeon So-young, and Kim Dong-hwi.
During the session, questions emerged about 'Assassins' in light of recent criticisms of historical distortion in politics, malicious online comments, and safety concerns that led to the cancellation of all festival events, including the red carpet and outdoor stage appearances for lead actors Lee Min-ho, director Hur Jin-ho, and others. The inquiries were directed at Shim Eun-kyung, who made a special appearance in the film, and director Kim Jong-kwan.
As questions were posed, moderator Jeong Ji-hye, a programmer, promptly intervened, stating, "I will speak on behalf of the festival. This is a press conference for the opening film, so we would like to focus our discussion on this work." She added, "Regarding the film 'Assassins,' please refer to the announcement made by the Busan International Film Festival."
Previously, 'Assassins' became embroiled in controversy over historical distortion due to its narrative surrounding the assassination attempt on August 15, 1974. As the controversy escalated, the production company Hive Media Corp canceled the attendance of director Hur Jin-ho and lead actors Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho at the opening ceremony and all outdoor events, citing safety concerns for attendees.
Meanwhile, the opening film 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' portrays light-hearted and candid conversations among four couples in a café setting. Directed by Kim Jong-kwan, known for works like 'Worst Day' and 'The Table,' the 31st Busan International Film Festival will run for ten days, concluding on October 15.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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