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Jeonju, South Korea, Ascends as Emerging Global Film Hub with Major Studio investments
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Jeonju City is rapidly transforming into a world-class film production center, fueled by meaningful investments in new studios, cutting-edge technology, and strategic partnerships aimed at attracting international productions.
Jeonju City, in Jeollabuk-do province, is executing an ambitious plan to become a leading force in the global film and video industry by 2034. Since the launch of the 8th popular election, the city has prioritized the advancement of a robust and enduring film ecosystem, focusing on infrastructure development to realize this vision.
Kumu Film Studio Expansion Signals International Ambitions
A key component of this strategy is the accelerated construction of a second studio for Kumu Film Studio Jeonju, a facility already recognized on the world stage. In May of last year, the city signed a memorandum of understanding with Kumu Film Studio Co., Ltd. to build a new studio spanning approximately 330,000 square meters (100,000 pyeong). Administrative support is being expedited,with related ordinances revised to incentivize overseas companies.
The anticipated impact of the Kumu Studio expansion is considerable. officials predict the facility will attract high-profile international productions, possibly including Hollywood blockbusters like Avatar, and foster increased foreign investment and co-production opportunities. This development is expected to generate significant job growth and stimulate the local economy.
Self-reliant Filmmaking Takes Center Stage with New Film House
Alongside the large-scale studio expansion, Jeonju is bolstering its support for independant filmmakers. Construction of the Jeonju independent Film House on Film Street in Gosa-dong, Wansan-gu, began in January and is slated for completion by the end of next year. This new facility will serve as a creative hub and screening venue for independent film producers and the public.
The city plans to leverage the international prestige of the Jeonju International Film Festival by hosting its opening ceremony and related programs at the new Independent Film House, further revitalizing the film district.
K-Film Studio to Offer Cutting-Edge Virtual Production Capabilities
Further enhancing Jeonju’s appeal to filmmakers, the city is developing the K-Film Studio in Sanglim-dong, Wansan-gu. This studio will feature a J3 Virtual Production Studio, utilizing LED walls to create immersive backgrounds, alongside practical sets including a police station, hospital, and community center. Completion is expected in November of next year.
This investment in virtual production technology positions Jeonju as a base facility capable of attracting both domestic and international film production teams seeking large-scale commercial production capabilities.
AI-Powered VFX Facility to Complete the Ecosystem
Jeonju is also investing in post-production infrastructure, securing 1 billion won in government funding for the construction of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based visual special effects (VFX) post-production facility. This addition will provide a comprehensive, one-stop solution for filmmakers, encompassing everything from filming to post-production and significantly enhancing the competitiveness of Jeonju’s film and video industry.
“Jeonju City is aiming to go beyond the existing simple film filming city and become
