South Korean Students Produce Feature Films, Pioneering Creative Education Model
Hwasun Cheongpung Elementary School in South Jeolla Province, South Korea, is leading a unique educational initiative by involving its entire student body in the production of feature films. This approach, supported by the Jeollanam-do Office of Education, is gaining traction as a creative convergence model, fostering students’ creativity and providing practical filmmaking experience.
From Short Films to Feature-Length Productions
Building on the success of producing three short films in the previous year, Hwasun Cheongpung Elementary School embarked on a more ambitious project: a 50-minute feature film titled “Grandmother, Me, and the Dandelion.” The film involves students in all aspects of production, from acting to crew roles, and even features teachers performing alongside them. Notably, Kim Daejung, Superintendent of the Jeonnam Office of Education, makes a special appearance as a music teacher.
A Community-Based Project
Filming takes place at Cheongpung Elementary School, within the local village, and at an abandoned mine, utilizing local locations. The project has garnered significant attention and support from Hwasun County and local residents, highlighting its role as a community film.
Expanding the ‘Small School Film’ Initiative
This initiative is part of the broader ‘glocal small school film specialization education’ promoted by the Jeollanam-do Office of Education. Schools like Omcheon Elementary School in Gangjin-gun, with just 18 students, have also successfully produced films, such as “Kang Jin-man, Dreaming of Ramsar,” which focused on protecting the ecological value of Gangjin Bay. These films are submitted to the annual Jeonnam Small School Film and Video Festival.
The Jeonnam Small School Film and Video Festival
The Jeonnam Small School Film and Video Festival, held annually, showcases works created by students in the ‘Small School in Film’ class. In 2023, the festival screened 46 films from 35 schools in Jeollanam-do and overseas, across three Mokpo movie theaters. Unlike traditional film festivals, this event prioritizes the creative process and student participation over competitive judging.
AI Integration and Future Expansion
The Jeonnam Office of Education is further promoting film education through the ‘Small School Film Festival AI Advertising Short Form Contest,’ encouraging faculty and staff to use generative artificial intelligence to create promotional videos. The number of film specialization schools is expanding from 5 in 2023 to approximately 20 in the current year, with participation now open to schools, clubs, and faculty in the Gwangju area.
A New Model for Education
Kim Jong-man, head of the school-age population policy department at the Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education, emphasized that these film projects are providing students with opportunities for creative learning and the development of new aspirations. The initiative aims to support students in creating stories about their region and society, fostering a deeper connection to their communities.