Greeting Message

The Arab Film Festival, which has showcased a diverse range of works reflecting the rich cultures of Arab countries, celebrates its 14th edition this year. Under the theme “One Step Closer into Arab Life,” the festival will present a total of 12 films, nine feature-length and three short films selected from 12 Arab nations: Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Tunisia and United Arab Emirates.

While stories centered on marginalized members of society continue to dominate, this year’s selection includes a number of debut works by emerging filmmakers, offering diverse and original perspectives. A notable trend among the films is the emphasis on hope through solidarity among community members, and the recognition that the shape of the communities depicted is not limited to traditional structures. At a time when we are witnessing great upheaval in the world, the Arab cinema we present will offer us an opportunity to reconsider the communities we belong to.

Established in 2009 and held annually since 2013, the Arab Film Festival is organized by the Korea-Arab Society, which has fostered comprehensive cooperation between Korea and 22 Arab countries in the fields of culture, politics, and academia. Through this event, audiences in Korea are invited to experience and gain deeper insight into the diverse lives of the Arab world. This year, the Arab Film Festival welcomes the Asia Culture Center in Gwangju as a new venue, joining Arthouse MOMO in Seoul and the Busan Cinema Center. This expansion allows audiences from more regions across Korea to discover the appeal of Arab cinema. Additionally, online screenings will continue to reach an even wider audience, transcending time and space.

The Arab Film Festival will begin with its opening ceremony on July 15 and continue through July 20 at Arthouse MOMO in Seoul. Screenings will be held at the Busan Cinema Center from July 18 to 23, and at the National Asian Culture Center in Gwangju from July 25 to 27. Alongside film screenings, a variety of programs and events, including Cine-talks, will be held at the venues. After the in-person screenings conclude, the festival will continue online via Naver TV from July 28 to August 3. We look forward to welcoming even more audiences to this celebration of Arab cinema.

Screening Schedule