Jeonju Film Festival Axes Parties After Ferry Disaster

The 15th Jeonju International Film Festival has canceled its main red-carpet event and various street performances in line with the somber mood across the nation after a ferry tragically sank off the southwest coast last Wednesday.

Advertisement

"As a way of extending our sympathy and condolences to the victims of this tragedy and their families, we will scale down the film festival", a spokesperson said on Tuesday.

The Sewol was carrying over 470 passengers when it capsized in the waters off Jindo on April 16. About two-thirds of those on board are feared dead, with about 150 still missing as of Wednesday.

"The major events we decided to cancel have been organized for over a year by our hardworking staff. But as the nation is in a state of mourning we feel duty bound to show our support for the families in the face of such a massive loss of life", the festival staffer said.

The opening ceremony on May 1, a red carpet event scheduled for May 7 and receptions following the opening and award ceremonies have all been axed. Street performances were supposed to be held throughout but have also been canceled. The film festival will run from May 1 to 10.