Each year, in conjunction with our feature presentations, the New York Korean Film Festival organizes a short film competition and exhibition of the top entries. This year’s submissions once again demonstrate the great wealth of independent spirit and craft of the short-film communities in both the United States and Korea. Reflecting a wide range of subjects and sensibilities, these finalists (Shorts Program 1 & 2) run the gamut of human experience, from the terror of sexual slavery to the liberating effect of dance. The first and second prize winners, chosen by our panel of distinguished industry guest jurors, will be announced at the conclusion of Shorts Program 2. Special thanks to our jurors Michael Kang, John Mhiripiri, Cindi Rowell and Bill Woods. The New York Korean Film Festival would also like to thank all the filmmakers who participated in this year’s competition, and, of course, short film enthusiasts like you who attend and support these programs.

In addition to our regular program, The New York Korean Film Festival has arranged to screen three award-winning short films fresh from the Seoul Independent Film Festival. This special section (Shorts Program - Drama Spotlight) provides a unique opportunity for American audiences to view the creative spirit of up-and-coming Korean talent. We are also pleased to present the third short film from well-known actor/director (and New York Korean Film Festival guest) Yoo Ji-tae. Yoo continues to make a name for himself internationally, having served as a juror for the prestigious Clermont-Ferrand (France) and Short Shorts (Japan) film festivals.