Acclaimed South Korean director Lee Chang-dong’s work will gain significantly wider accessibility following the Venice Film Festival’s recognition of his latest project. The streaming platform Netflix announced plans to distribute his films globally, a move prompted by “Possible Love” receiving the Silver Lion award at the prestigious festival.
“Possible Love,” marking Lee’s return to filmmaking after an eight-year hiatus, will receive a staggered theatrical release beginning in South Korea on September 23, followed by additional markets in late October. The film will premiere on Netflix worldwide on November 6. The drama explores the intersection of two couples’ lives as a documentary project unfolds, with performances from Jeon Do-yeon, Sul Kyung-gu, Zo In-sung, and Cho Yeo-jeong.
Alongside the new release, Netflix has already begun rolling out several of Lee’s earlier works to international audiences. Titles including “Secret Sunshine,” “Green Fish,” “Peppermint Candy,” and “Oasis” have recently become available in select territories including the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, and Australia. Additional films such as “Poetry” and “Burning” are scheduled for release in Japan, North America, and Oceania, with multiple subtitle options available across markets.
Lee’s career has garnered substantial international recognition, including a Venice directing prize for “Oasis” in 2002 and a Cannes screenplay award for “Poetry” in 2010. “Possible Love” represents South Korea’s official submission for the Academy Awards’ international feature category.
