Vietnam recommended to learn from Korean cinema model
VOV.VN - The Republic of Korea serves as an exemplary model for Vietnamese cinema to study and follow in building a sustainable, strategic, and globally competitive film industry, said Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, head of the Vietnam Film Development Association, at the inauguration of the third Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III) on June 29.

One of the key highlights of this year’s DANAFF III is the Focus on Korean Cinema programme, which honours the remarkable journey of the Korean cinema from its early developments in the 1960s to its explosive rise on the global stage in recent decades.
According to Dr. Lan, the decision to spotlight the RoK at DANAFF III is not only to honour a powerhouse of Asian and global cinema but also to match the festival’s core theme DANAFF - Bridging Asia.
“If we’re to learn from a film industry that shares cultural and historical similarities with Vietnam, Korea is a fitting choice,” she stated.
Dr. Lan noted that both the Korean and Vietnamese cinemas began by reflecting the realities of war and daily life particularly during the 1960s. These parallels provide a foundation for Vietnam to draw valuable lessons from the RoK’s remarkable transformation in recent decades, from policy reforms and production technology to international audience outreach strategies.
“Korea has successfully built a modern film industry that thrives both commercially and artistically. The global triumph of Parasite at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Awards is the most striking example. This success is the result of a well-planned long-term development strategy, one that Vietnam can certainly learn from,” Dr. Lan added.

The Focus on Korean Cinema programme this year features 14 Korean films ranging from classics to contemporary works. Notably, three masterpieces by legendary director Im Kwon Taek (Seopyeonje, Chunhyang, and Chihwaseon) will be screened, with all embodying Korea’s “glocalisation” philosophy, blending traditional identity with global appeal.
“After watching the selected films, audiences will clearly see that what I’ve shared is not just theoretical, it’s a real and vivid testament to the theme of DANAFF III that we continually uphold,” Dr. Lan concluded.
DANAFF III will run from June 29 to July 5 in Da Nang City, featuring an expanded programme with over 100 films, nearly double the number of the previous edition, and around 200 screenings at local cinemas. The Focus on Korean Cinema programme will be free to the public from June 30 at Le Do, CGV, Galaxy, and Lotte cinemas, with tickets available from June 24 at Le Do cinema.
In addition to film screenings, the festival offers a diverse array of activities, such as seminars, exhibitions, a film project market, artist meet-and-greets, and opportunities to explore Central Vietnam’s rich culture and cuisine.

Deputy Chairwoman of the Da Nang People’s Committee Nguyen Thi Anh Thi emphasized DANAFF III is a celebration of creativity, cultural diversity, and the aspiration to connect Asian cinemas.
“We are proud that Da Nang once again serves as a rendezvous for film lovers from across the region,” she said.
With its broadened scale and ambition, DANAFF III reaffirms its role as a major international cinematic event in the region, helping to elevate Vietnamese cinema globally and positioning Da Nang as a creative city of cultural and cinematic connection.