The Korean Cultural Center in Liège is making history with the launch of its very first Korean Cinema series, bringing the powerful storytelling of Korean filmmaking to Belgian audiences. The inaugural event will feature a screening of the critically acclaimed war drama "Escape from Mogadishu," directed by renowned filmmaker Ryoo Seung-wan in 2021.
The special screening is scheduled for Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Kinepolis Palace Liège. The film will be presented in its original Korean language with both French and English subtitles, making it accessible to the diverse international community in Liège. Admission to this cultural event is completely free, though advance reservations are required due to limited seating capacity.
"Escape from Mogadishu" is based on extraordinary true events that unfolded during one of the most turbulent periods in modern African history. The film portrays the harrowing escape of both North and South Korean diplomats from war-torn Somalia in 1991, during the outbreak of the devastating Somali Civil War. Set against the backdrop of Mogadishu's descent into chaos following the collapse of President Siad Barre's regime, the story follows rival diplomatic delegations from both Korean embassies who initially found themselves locked in intense political competition for international recognition and United Nations membership.
As the city around them erupted into violence and lawlessness, both diplomatic teams became trapped in an increasingly dangerous situation. The film explores how these representatives from two nations technically still at war were forced to confront their shared vulnerability and humanity. Faced with a life-or-death situation, the North and South Korean diplomats had to overcome decades of deeply ingrained ideological hostility and political animosity to cooperate in a desperate bid for survival.
The Korean Cultural Center is enhancing the cinematic experience by offering complimentary Korean snacks to attendees following the film screening, providing an authentic cultural touch to the evening. This gesture reflects the center's commitment to sharing not just Korean cinema but also elements of Korean culture and hospitality with the local community.
Due to the special nature of this Liège-exclusive screening, the reservation system operates uniquely within the city limits. Registration QR codes will only be available on physical promotional posters displayed throughout various locations in Liège, rather than through online platforms. This approach ensures that the event remains accessible primarily to local residents and visitors currently in the city, emphasizing the community-focused nature of the cultural initiative.
This inaugural Korean Cinema event in Liège represents a significant step in cultural diplomacy and international exchange, offering Belgian audiences an opportunity to experience the compelling narratives and high production values that have made Korean cinema a global phenomenon in recent years.
