[New Documentary] ‘A Night in Seoul’: Six Hours That Engulfed the National Assembly… Release Set for Two Years Later

The scars of martial law: A camera records history unfolding

The documentary film ‘A Night in Seoul’, an in-depth look at the martial law crisis that left a deep scar on South Korea’s constitutional history, will open nationwide on December 3, marking the second anniversary of the crisis. Distributor Yeonghwaroun Hyeongje confirmed the release date on the 26th and said it was launching a crowdfunding campaign to support screenings across the country.

The film closely traces the most tense “six hours”—from the moment former President Yoon Suk Yeol abruptly declared martial law through the National Assembly’s vote and the final lifting of the measure. It captures in vivid footage the hair-trigger situation as armored vehicles and helicopters carrying armed martial law troops entered the National Assembly grounds, as well as the urgent solidarity of citizens who rushed there to defend democracy.

The documentary has drawn considerable attention from the media and critics since its planning stage, particularly because it was directed by the production team behind ‘PD Note,’ MBC’s flagship current-affairs program known for its in-depth investigative reporting. The film combines journalism’s sharp perspective with cinematic direction, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship.

The film’s artistic merit has already been recognized on the international stage. It was officially invited to the 54th ‘International Film Festival Rotterdam’ in the Netherlands last January, where it was shown to filmmakers from around the world. It also received a ‘NETPAC Award Special Mention.’ The jury was said to have praised the civic spirit that shone through during a national crisis and the media’s fierce commitment to documenting it.

The distributor said it is focused on securing a large number of screens to share the historical truth with more viewers. Its plan is to bring ‘A Night in Seoul’ to theaters across the country through a crowdfunding campaign that invites citizens to take part.