Talking with KIAFA – The Independent Animators from Korea
6 FEBRUARY 2025
In Clermont, we managed to talk with Sungtaek and Kyeonghyeon, representatives of KIAFA — the Korean Independent Animated Filmmakers Association, who were presenting works of their partners at the short film festival. Here’s what they told us about their work and what’s happening on the scene in South Korea
In Clermont, we managed to talk with Sungtaek and Kyeonghyeon, representatives of KIAFA — the Korean Independent Animated Filmmakers Association, who were presenting works of their partners at the short film festival. Here’s what they told us about their work and what’s happening on the scene in South Korea
We ensure that independent filmmakers have their rights, and we help and protect them. It’s easy to lose their works as an individual author without support. Both of us agree with the goals of our association, which is why we chose to work here.
What are the goals of KIAFA?
Where are you situated?
We have a working space, really specific one, based in Seoul. It is special because we share the building with the Kto ktu drawing academy, similar to name of one of the demonstration halls of Festival in Clermont. It was funny to notice it.
We are representatives of KIAFA — Korean Independent Animated Filmmakers Association. My name is Kyunghyun, am in charge in distribution of films in this company. Sungtaek is our general manager. Our team is 5 people, but when we have our own festival called Indie-AniFest it’s 10.
Tell us about yourself
The festival takes place in Seoul, showcasing almost 70 films. It’s not an international event; only Korean and Asian films are screening. But we are very interested in screening international animation films and inviting people from all around the world to visit Indie-AniFest. Any animator can use social networks to get involved.
What can you share about your own festival?
Commercial has a more longer story in this industry than independent. Commercials are literally commercial, it needs to be sold, so they must make what their director wants. Also, they are more children oriented. But independent ones do an expression of themselves, that’s the difference.
What is the difference between commercial and independent filmmaking in Korea?
There is no any specific ideas, themes or animation style in works of our authors, because Korean independent authors have very creative mind and we don’t want to make a limit for them, because it will close a door of their expression.
Do you have any main themes in films that you choose to protect?
Jonghoon Lee — he is one of the most influenced author in indie animation in Korea. Sasha Lee — she has very creative mind with the unique creations. Also you need to know about Jinkyu Jeon, Jiwon Han and Seungbae Jeon.
Which artists would you recommend to better understand Korean animation?
There are two reactions. First one comes from children — they like more films without any words and subtitles, and they feel like Korean kids, because in the childhood people are the same. Second is from adults: they like the way of expression and the techniques used for an animation.
What reaction about films do you get from international audiens?
Every time depends on a mission of event where we presenting our films. For example here is the festival of short films, so we choose short ones, and it also depends on a colours of works and festival. It needed to be suitable and appropriated to it.
How do you choose films for festivals?
4. A Small Garden by the Window, 2024.
3. My Mother's Story, 2023.
2. DESK BUGS, 2024.
- Eyes Eyes Eyes, 2023.
Visit KIAFA's website
