Goryeojang 1963
Directed by the bold and visionary Kim Ki-young, *Goryeojang (1963)* plunges audiences into the harsh realities of Korea's pre-Confucian past, where an unforgiving tradition demanded the abandonment of elderly parents.
Director: Kim Ki-young
Cast
Kim Jin-kyu
Gu-ryeong
Ju Jeung-nyeo
Widow
Kim Bo-ae
Gat-nan
Kim Dong-won
Jin-seok
Lee Yea-chun
Park Chul
Park Am
Seok Geum-seong
Go Seon-ae
Wang Suk-rang
Dokgo Sung
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Goryeojang (1963) about?
*Goryeojang* unfolds in medieval Korea, where a nobleman's refusal to abandon his elderly mother on a mountainside sparks a confrontation with the brutal customs of his time. His act of rebellion becomes a fight for dignity, challenging the moral fabric of a society that once prioritized tradition over compassion.
Who directed Goryeojang?
Goryeojang was directed by the influential and fearless Kim Ki-young, a filmmaker renowned for his socially charged and often controversial works in Korean cinema.
Who stars in Goryeojang?
The film stars Kim Jin-kyu in a standout role as the nobleman, supported by Ju Jeung-nyeo as his devoted mother, Kim Bo-ae, Kim Dong-won, and Lee Yea-chun in pivotal supporting parts.
Is Goryeojang (1963) worth watching?
As a historical drama rooted in Korean New Wave cinema, *Goryeojang* may not be widely known outside niche circles, but its powerful themes and Kim Ki-young's sharp direction make it a compelling watch for fans of thought-provoking storytelling. The film's emotional weight and atmospheric tension reward those seeking depth over mainstream appeal.
How long is Goryeojang?
Goryeojang has a runtime of 110 minutes.
About Goryeojang (1963) — A Daring Drama of Love vs. Tradition in Ancient Korea
Directed by the bold and visionary Kim Ki-young, *Goryeojang (1963)* plunges audiences into the harsh realities of Korea's pre-Confucian past, where an unforgiving tradition demanded the abandonment of elderly parents. Set against the backdrop of the ancient Goryeo kingdom, the film follows a nobleman's defiant stand against this cruel custom as he risks everything to save his mother from a slow death on a desolate mountainside. With its stark exploration of duty, morality, and the weight of tradition, *Goryeojang* blends historical drama with emotional depth, creating an atmosphere that lingers long after the final scene. Kim Jin-kyu delivers a powerhouse performance as the conflicted protagonist, while Ju Jeung-nyeo's portrayal of the aging mother brings heartbreaking authenticity to the screen. This underseen gem from Korea's golden age of cinema is a masterclass in storytelling, where love battles against societal norms in a tale that feels as timeless as it is haunting.
As a cornerstone of Korean New Wave cinema, *Goryeojang (1963)* stands as a testament to Kim Ki-young's unflinching directorial style, merging social critique with visceral human drama. The film's unflinching portrayal of age-old customs colliding with personal conscience makes it a profound meditation on family and sacrifice. With its striking black-and-white cinematography and emotionally charged narrative, *Goryeojang* offers a window into a chapter of history often overlooked, proving that some traditions deserve to be challenged.
