Director Bong Joon Ho and other prominent figures in the Korean film industry called for an investigation into the police handling and media reporting of the late actor Lee Sun-kyun's case, which tragically ended in his apparent suicide. They urged authorities to examine potential lapses in the investigation and media responses, and raised concerns about unauthorized disclosures. The group also criticized media organizations for reckless reporting and discussed the need for legislative revisions to protect human rights in criminal cases and information disclosure.
Prominent Korean filmmakers and arts organizers are calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Parasite star Lee Sun-kyun, who died at age 48 of an apparent suicide. Lee had been under police investigation for suspected illegal drug use, which he denied, and his death has reignited discussions about mental health and the pressures faced by entertainers in South Korea. The Association of Solidarity Among Cultural Artists, including figures like Bong Joon-ho, will hold a press conference to urge authorities to prevent similar tragedies and revise laws to protect artists' human rights.
Allegations of box office fraud have surfaced in the Korean film industry, with major theater chains and distributors accused of colluding to inflate ticket sales for over 300 films in the past five years. The practices, which include "ghost screenings" and bulk-buying promotional tickets, were reportedly an "open secret" in the industry. The major multiplex companies are facing criticism for their market power, while some insiders argue that the current box office system and metrics contribute to the discrepancies. The Korean Film Council is under scrutiny for its oversight, and the industry is calling for greater transparency and a shift to revenue-based counting methods.
