What happens when one of Korea’s most iconic directors walks into a room full of aspiring filmmakers? Magic. That’s exactly what went down on the morning of July 3rd, 2025, during a truly unforgettable session at the 3rd Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III). Director Kang Je-kyu, the mind behind South Korea’s most groundbreaking cinematic moments, led an exclusive, high-energy Master Class that left the audience buzzing with inspiration.
Whether you’re a film student, a movie buff, or someone who just appreciates great storytelling—this was the kind of moment that makes you fall in love with cinema all over again.
Meet the Maestro: Kang Je-kyu
Let’s put it simply: Kang Je-kyu is the real deal.
Over a career spanning three decades, he has become one of the pillars of modern Korean cinema. He’s the mastermind behind box-office giants like:
- 🎬 Taegukgi (2004) – A war epic that shattered every admissions record at the time.
- 🎬 My Way (2011) – A massive production renowned for boasting the highest production budget in the history of Korean cinema.
Oh, and if you’ve heard of Shiri (1999)—the film that single-handedly kicked off the Korean blockbuster era by melding Hollywood-style action with a uniquely Korean narrative—you’re already familiar with his legacy.
Working alongside A-list legends like Song Kang-ho, Won Bin, Jang Dong-gun, Choi Min-sik, and even international stars like Fan Bingbing, Kang Je-kyu has helped push Korean films to global acclaim.
A Master Class Like No Other
Held as part of DANAFF III, the Master Class hosted by Director Kang wasn’t just a lecture—it was a deep dive into the soul of filmmaking.
From Initial Idea to Final Cut
During the session, Kang Je-kyu peeled back the curtain on his creative process in a casual, approachable style. He walked participants through the journey of turning a fleeting idea into a cinematic masterpiece—covering everything from script development, character building, and cinematography, to navigating the maze of production challenges.
“Hopefully, my stories and experiences can be a small light on your journey as emerging filmmakers,” Kang said during the class. “But please—don’t hesitate to ask me anything. I want to hear your thoughts, your concerns, and learn from you too.”
And yes, you could feel how much he meant it.
A Golden Opportunity for Vietnamese Filmmakers
What truly made this event special was the synergy in the room. Young Vietnamese directors and artists eagerly soaked in Kang’s every word, scribbling notes, asking questions, even nervously pitching ideas. For many, this wasn’t just a class—it was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn directly from a master who has been where they hope to go.
Kang’s emphasis on collaboration, resilience, and the power of authentic storytelling resonated deeply with the participants, many of whom dream of making their mark on Vietnam’s growing film scene.
And let’s be real—how often do you get to chat one-on-one with the director who redefined the Korean box office?
More Than Just a Lecture
Kang Je-kyu’s session did more than teach people how to make a good film.
It reminded everyone in the room—students, hobbyists, professionals—why they fell in love with cinema to begin with. It was a masterclass full of laughter, serious insight, and most importantly, connection.
We often think of filmmaking as this glamorous, high-stakes industry (and it can be), but Kang reminded us that at its core, it’s about sharing stories that matter. Stories that connect people. Stories that, in his words, “cross borders without needing passports.”
Why This Matters
In today’s digital world, where content is everywhere but true connection is rare, masterclasses like this bring depth and mentorship into the artistic journey. For young Vietnamese filmmakers, it’s an invaluable piece of the puzzle—learning from someone who has conquered every kind of cinematic mountain imaginable.
As Vietnam’s film industry continues to grow and evolve, opportunities like this will help shape the voices and visions of tomorrow’s storytellers.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of making movies, if you’re inspired by the raw power of storytelling, or if you just love seeing legends empower the next generation—keep an eye on the Da Nang Asian Film Festival. With leaders like Kang Je-kyu in the mix, the future of Asian cinema is looking brighter than ever.
🎥 For more information, visit the official city portal: Da Nang City Government
Image credits: Danang Fantasticity
Kang Je-kyu Master Class
