Movies
▲The Face in the Photo
A documentary capturing the photographic world of Kuwabara Shisei (90), a master of Japanese photojournalism who covered Korea for 60 years. His 100,000 photos breathe with Korea’s turbulent modern history. Released on September 2.
▲Obsession
The biggest North American hit of the first half of the year, surpassing the box office of *The Room*. Her chilling confession: “I love you so, so, so much.” There’s only one way to escape.
▲Sing Again
A new film by John Carney, director of *Begin Again*. A washed-up idol copies others’ songs to rise again. Can the washed-up rocker who had his song stolen turn the tables?
Broadcasts·OTT
▲ENA ‘New Recruit 4: Sabotage’
A reality-comedy drama set in a military unit filled with all types of people. Returning for its fourth season with characters who’ve risen in rank. Starring Kim Min-ho, Kim Dong-jun, and others. Mondays and Tuesdays at 10 p.m.
▲tvN “Four Hands, Two Sonatas”
“Biyo” (Song Kang), raised as a “genius pianist,” and “Jeongyo” (Lee Joon-young), who developed his own piano style amid hardship. A drama about the friendship forged through clashes and mutual reliance. Saturdays and Sundays at 9:10 p.m.
Exhibitions
▲Yukimasa Ida Solo Exhibition
Yukimasa Ida (36), a Japanese artist who captures fleeting memories with thick paint and bold brushstrokes, is holding his first solo exhibition in Korea simultaneously in Daegu and Gyeongju. At Daegu’s Wooson Gallery, *Inner Garden* showcases over 30 large-scale paintings, including portraits of family and acquaintances, reinterpretations of Van Gogh, and landscapes. At Gyeongju’s OAR Museum of Art, over 50 works—paintings, sculptures, and videos—explore his artistic world based on the Japanese concept of *ichigo ichie* (a once-in-a-lifetime encounter). The Wooson Gallery exhibition runs until October 31; the OAR Museum exhibition until March 14, 2027.
Performances
▲15th Anniversary ‘Jandari Festa’
Named after the old district names of Seogyo-dong and Donggyo-dong, this festival has annually gathered over 10 indie musicians from around the world at Hongdae clubs. This year, 70 domestic and international teams, including Lazybone, Broccoli Nurimaze, Electric Eel, and Kang New, will perform. September 4–6, 44,000–119,000 Korean won.
▲Rolling Hall’s 30-Year Embrace: ‘Sound Planet’
Born to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Hongdae’s iconic club Rolling Hall, this music festival expands its theme to Korea-Japan exchange. Featuring 73 popular teams from both countries, including Young K, Kim Junsu, Zutomayo, and Uverworld. September 5–6 at Incheon Paradise City, 132,000–198,000 Korean won.
▲Play ‘Elderly Extermination’
Everyone ages, falls ill, and faces death. A family’s effort to care for their father clashes with the elderly man’s desire to age with dignity. It’s not someone else’s story. A new play by the theater company Sinsegye. Until September 6 at Mialigo Art Theater in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 40,000 Korean won.
▲Musical ‘Frozen’
The Korean licensed production of the Broadway musical based on the animated film that once held the record for highest global box office. When Elsa sings “Let It Go~” and her dress transforms into ice, the theater erupts in cheers. Until March 1, 2027, at Charlotte Theater in Songpa-gu, Seoul, 90,000–190,000 Korean won.
▲Play ‘Dead Poets Society’
“Oh Captain, my Captain!” The late Robin Williams’ iconic film returns as a live theater production. Teacher Keating, newly assigned to an elite school, teaches students to “find their voice, awaken,” but the clash of values sows seeds of tragedy. Until September 13 at NOL Theater in Daehakro, Seoul, 60,000–120,000 Korean won.
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