Kim Hyang-gi Starring 'Hanran', Confirmed for Release in Japan on April 3... The Echo of Jeju 4·3 Crosses Borders

The film 〈Hanran〉, depicting the survival story of a mother and daughter blossoming amidst the tragedy of Jeju 4·3, will land on the Japanese archipelago on April 3. The subtle yet strong wave it has created in the domestic independent and art film scene will now reach Japanese theaters.

〈Hanran〉 tells the story of a mother, 'A-jin' (played by Kim Hyang-gi), who had to fight for survival while evading the suppression forces in Jeju in 1948, and her six-year-old daughter, 'Hae-sang'. Rather than getting caught up in the reenactment of events, it focuses on the emotions of the women and children who endured that era, receiving critical acclaim both domestically and internationally.

The Power of Independent Film, Surpassing 30,000 Viewers Leads to Japanese Distribution Decision

Released in November 2025, 〈Hanran〉 surpassed 10,000 viewers within two days of its release and has now exceeded a cumulative audience of 30,000, marking an unusual long-term success for an independent film. This domestic achievement has translated into a warm response in Japan during its world premiere at the Aichi International Women's Film Festival.

The Japanese distribution will be handled by the prominent figure in Asian film distribution, Kimata Junji. He stated, “I wanted to look at the historical connection of Jeju 4·3, which is not well known in Japanese society, and the Jeju people who have settled in Japan,” explaining the reason for the distribution decision.

Director Ha Myung-mi X Kim Hyang-gi “A Precious Opportunity for Historical Connection and Cultural Exchange”

Actress Kim Hyang-gi, who received critical acclaim for her first role as a mother, expressed her gratitude by saying, “Thank you for showing interest in Korea's important history,” and added, “I hope that good works from both countries will positively influence each other.”

Director Ha Myung-mi also remarked, “Jeju 4·3 is deeply connected to the time of the Jeju people who settled in Japan,” and added, “I hope that through this release, the memory of Jeju will cross borders and reach more places.”

Following invitations from the Florence Korean Film Festival in Europe and the Helsinki Cine Asia, 〈Hanran〉 has confirmed its release in Japan, where it will meet audiences in major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya on April 3.