Filmmaker Jang Kun-jae's Latest Film Examines Modern-day Alienation and Identity Through a Woman's Journey

Courtesy of BIFF

The 28th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) commenced with the premiere of "Because I Hate Korea," a thought-provoking film by renowned filmmaker Jang Kun-jae, celebrated for his 2014 work "A Midsummer’s Fantasia." The movie, based on Chang Kang-myoung's best-selling novel, delves into the contemporary theme of alienation, focusing on the life of Gye-na (Ko A-sung), a woman in her late 20s searching for her identity and happiness abroad.

Gye-na grapples with a deep aversion to Korea, particularly its harsh winter, reflecting the societal isolation she experiences. Despite securing a stable job and a long-term relationship, she battles the country's social rigidity, family expectations, and personal insecurities. Ultimately, she makes the life-altering decision to leave everything behind and start anew in temperate New Zealand, where she navigates a tranquil life while encountering diverse friends.

Director Jang drew inspiration from Chang Kang-myoung's novel, initially reading it in 2015 amid significant societal shifts in Korea. The novel's resonance with the changing landscape prompted Jang to adapt it into a film, a journey that materialized after years of dedication, complicated further by COVID-19's impact on overseas production.
 

▲ Director Jang Kun-jae's film "Because I Hate Korea" was selected as the opening film for this year's BIFF. Courtesy of BIFF
The film's selection as the opening feature at BIFF stems from its ability to resonate not only with domestic audiences but also globally. The narrative, centered on young adults grappling with uncertainty, boldly confronts the challenges faced by the younger generation, making it universally relatable.

Gye-na's quest for happiness serves as a broader metaphor for the struggles encountered by today's youth, portraying an attitude toward life that embraces courage and hope. The movie intricately explores Gye-na's desperation to escape Korean society, shedding light on the societal pressures faced by the younger generation, urging deeper introspection into the characters and the choices they make.

Jang Kun-jae aims to prompt critical questions about societal pressures in Korea, sparking a dialogue about the challenges that young people confront in today's society. "Because I Hate Korea" stands as a poignant commentary on modern realities, challenging perceptions and shedding light on the complexity of contemporary existence.

Sayart.net 

Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com