JEONJU International Film Festival Is Against Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

· JEONJU IFF strongly condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

· JEONJU IFF supports courageous Russian filmmakers, artists, and people who have begun to speak out against the unilateral decision of their nation

· After expressing support for Myanmar’s democratization movement, JEONJU IFF voices against the invasion of Ukraine

The organizing committee of the JEONJU International Film Festival (JEONJU IFF, Festival Director LEE Joondong) voiced their opposition to Russia´s invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, February 24.

Through their official website, the organizing committee of the JEONJU IFF expressed that they "strongly condemn Russia´s invasion as a member of the international community." They added, "South Korea has also suffered from war and the violation of state sovereignty, so we deeply regret the unfortunate reality Ukraine is facing."

In regards to the increasing number of civilian casualties in Ukraine due to the invasion, JEONJU IFF affirmed that "this kind of violence cannot be justified in any circumstance," adding, "we strongly support Ukraine´s sovereignty, their will to preserve their territory, and their desire for democracy." Finally, the committee concluded, "We applaud the courage of local Russian filmmakers, artists, and the people who have begun to speak out against the nation´s unilateral decision."

JEONJU IFF has consistently raised its voice for peace in the international community, leading and setting an example as an international film festival. Last year, when Myanmar’s democratization movement was a global issue, JEONJU IFF showed its support as one of 10 domestic and international film festivals to make an official statement in support of the democratization.

Meanwhile, the 23rd JEONJU IFF is scheduled to be held for 10 days from Thursday, April 28, 2022 to Saturday, May 7, 2022 in and around Jeonju Film Street in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province.

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JEONJU International Film Festival is against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Since February 24, 2022, Russia has been attacking Ukraine with Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), including missiles and tanks. The ongoing attack has resulted in many civilian casualties in Ukraine.

As a member of our community, and the international community, which has suffered from the infringement of sovereignty, JEONJU International Film Festival strongly condemns the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This kind of violence cannot be justified in any circumstance.

JEONJU International Film Festival strongly supports and respects Ukraine’s will to protect its sovereignty, territory, and democracy, and also supports the courage of local Russian filmmakers, artists, and people who have begun to speak out against the unilateral decision of the nation.

We hope citizens in Ukraine stay safe.