By Honorary Reporter Shalini Ghosh from India
Photos = Shalini Ghosh

The Korean Consulate General in Mumbai, India, on Aug. 4 hosted its annual Korean Film Festival at PVR Cinemas within Jio World Drive Mall in Mumbai. 

The screening of the acclaimed films "Little Forest" and "Sunset in My Hometown" attracted almost 100 guests including officials and delegates from other consulates general.

This year's Korean Film Festival in Mumbai was held on Aug. 4 at PVR Cinemas of Jio World Drive Mall.

The festival started with "Little Forest," which is about a girl who returns to the small village where she was raised after failing the national qualification exam for teachers and quitting her part-time job in Seoul. Attendees received a movie wristband and pass from the consulate. 

Consul General Kim Young-og in his opening speech stressed the event's role in promoting Korean culture and introduced the film to the audience.

Consul General Kim Young-og (left) speaks before the screening of "Little Forest" and I pose with him (right) for a photo.

After the movie concluded, attendees were asked to fill out a survey on the event, venue and film. Kim also greeted the international delegates and asked for feedback.

During the break, one viewer said, "The movie was very engaging, beautifully portrayed finding one's direction when lost in life and showcased the beauty of slow-paced life. Although I prefer watching action and thriller films, this was a new and amazing experience for me." 

Another added, "The breathtaking natural scenery was the cherry on top. Overall, the movie was very calm and comforting."

From left to right are Vice Consul Kim Dosik, me and Han Sunghee, administrator of the consulate's public diplomacy and economic affairs section.

In an interview, Han Sunghee, administrator of the public diplomacy and economic affairs section at the consulate, discussed her office's role in promoting Korean culture.

 
She said, "We've been hosting cultural events such as the film festival and contests since 2016. This year marks our first time to host the festival at a movie theater to accommodate a larger audience and showcase the high quality of Korean films. We hope to continue a similar format in next year's festival."

"Previously, we could host only a limited audience, mostly from the younger generation. But post-COVID-19, we've seen an increase in attendance and a more diverse audience each year thanks to a larger venue. With growing participation, we receive emails from attendees expressing their enthusiasm for and requests for more events."

Han added, "Our Korean Speech Contest that concluded last week was conducted by King Sejong Institute Pune. We've also hosted side events such as Hanbok dress-ups and free sampling of Korean food. A K-pop contest is coming in October."

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.