Kim Chang-min: Director Dies, Donates Organs to 4

Korean Filmmaker Kim chang-min Dies at 40, Remembered for Human Rights Focus and Organ Donation

A rising voice in Korean cinema, Kim Chang-min, director of the acclaimed short film Guui Station Exit 3, has died at the age of 40 following a cerebral hemorrhage. His family reported his passing on November 9, 2025, after he was pronounced brain dead on November 7th at Gangdong Sacred Heart hospital in Seoul.

Kim’s legacy extends beyond his filmmaking, as he generously donated his organs, giving the gift of life too four individuals.His sister shared the news on his Facebook page, stating he “shared precious new life wiht four people through organ donation and left to be with the Lord.”

Born in Seoul in 1985 and a graduate of Dure Natural High School,Kim began his career in the film industry in 2013,working as a props assistant on the film Suspect. he steadily climbed the ranks, contributing to the art departments of several notable productions including Captain Kim Chang-soo (2017), Drug King (2018), The Witch (2018), Rain and Your Story (2021), and the upcoming Firefighter (2024).

Kim transitioned to directing with Nobody’s Daughter in 2016, a film that tackled the sensitive subject of a daughter navigating life with a father who is a sex offender. The film earned him the Best director Award at the 2016 Police Human Rights Film Festival, establishing his commitment to socially conscious storytelling. His 2019 short film, Guui Station Exit 3, offered a poignant portrayal of a divorced couple reconnecting for one night after a period of court-ordered mediation. The script for his unfinished short film, Reply, was placed with him in the mortuary.

Did you know? – Kim Chang-min’s early work focused on art department roles, demonstrating a extensive understanding of film production before transitioning to directing. He worked on over a dozen films in various capacities.

Those who knew kim remember him as a deeply compassionate individual. A pastor from his church described him as “a warm-hearted person who wanted to help others even if it was difficult for him,” and “a just freind who gave 100% of himself to everyone.”

Pro tip: – Organ donation can save lives. Individuals interested in becoming donors should register with their local organ donation registry. Information is available through most hospitals and government health websites.

The funeral will be held in Room 1 of the funeral hall at Hanyang University Guri Hospital, with the service taking place at 6 a.m. on November 10th at Bundang Memorial Park. For inquiries regarding the obituary, contact can be made via fax at 02-398-3111, phone at 02-398-3000, KakaoTalk at okjebo, or email at [email protected]. (Bereaved family contact information is required for confirmation).

Reader question: – What impact do you think socially conscious films have on society, and how can filmmakers best address sensitive topics?