The Birth of Korea explained

The Birth of Korea is a 2024 South Korean documentary film directed by Kim Deog-young, depicting the life of Syngman Rhee, the South Korea's first president. The film was released on February 1, 2024. As a low-budget independent documentary, the movie was a huge box office success, reaching number three at the South Korean box office. The film received strong praise and support from South Korean conservative politicians and celebrities.^{[1] [2]} South Korea's opposition Democratic Party accused the film of ignoring the dictatorship and corruption that characterized Syngman Rhee's reign.^[3] The analysis by NK News accused the content of the film of distorting historical facts and aiming to glorify Syngman Rhee and recast him as a national hero.^{[4] [5]}

The movie's sequel, The Birth of Korea 2, is scheduled for release in 2025.^[6]

Notes and References

1. News: Kang . Hyun-kyung . 'Birth of Korea': Filmmaker's ode to South Korea's first president . 13 May 2024 . The Korea Times . 2024-02-16.
2. News: Moon . Sy-moon . 'There is tragedy, but ultimately there is victory': Conservative political film 'The Birth of Korea' causes a stir . 13 May 2024 . Korea JoongAng Daily . 2024-02-29.
3. News: Lee . Soo-jung . Seoul mayor jumps into Syngman Rhee documentary's ideological minefield . 13 May 2024 . Korea JoongAng Daily . 2024-02-21.
4. News: A. Engel . Benjamin . Cinema and controversy merge in South Korea's historical debate . 13 May 2024 . NK News . 2024-02-27.
5. News: Bernal . Gabriela . New film champions ROK's first president, and his hardline stance on North Korea . 13 May 2024 . NK News . 2024-03-05.
6. News: Kim . Da-sol . 'The Birth of Korea' sequel to be released next year . 13 May 2024 . The Korea Times . 2024-02-29.