Our School 2007
Kim Myeong-joon's *Our School (2007)* immerses viewers in the quiet struggles and small victories of third- and fourth-generation Korean-Japanese students at Chosen School in Hokkaido.
Director: Kim Myeong-joon
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Our School* (2007) about?
*Our School* follows the daily lives of Korean-Japanese students at Chosen School in Hokkaido as they progress through their 11-year national education program. The documentary avoids dramatic clashes to focus instead on the subtle challenges of identity, belonging, and cultural navigation in Japan.
Who directed *Our School*?
*Our School* was directed by Kim Myeong-joon, a filmmaker known for his sensitive, observational documentaries that explore social and cultural identities.
Who stars in *Our School*?
The film features third- and fourth-generation Korean-Japanese students at Chosen School, though specific cast names are not listed in the available information.
Is *Our School* (2007) worth watching?
*Our School* is a quietly powerful documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of a marginalized community. While it may lack mainstream entertainment appeal, its authenticity and emotional depth make it a standout for fans of thoughtful, socially conscious filmmaking.
How long is *Our School*?
*Our School* runs for 131 minutes (approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes).
About Our School (2007) — A Year in the Lives of Korean-Japanese Students
Kim Myeong-joon's *Our School (2007)* immerses viewers in the quiet struggles and small victories of third- and fourth-generation Korean-Japanese students at Chosen School in Hokkaido. Over the course of a single year—part of their 11-year educational journey—the documentary strips away stereotypes to reveal the unglamorous, deeply human reality of what it means to live between two cultures. Rather than highlighting dramatic conflicts or milestones, the film lingers on the everyday moments that define these young lives: classroom routines, friendships, family expectations, and the quiet resilience required to navigate identity in a society that often overlooks their existence.
By focusing on ordinary days, *Our School* crafts a poignant portrait of belonging and displacement. The students' stories unfold against the backdrop of Hokkaido's wintry landscapes, where the cold mirrors the emotional distance many feel from mainstream Japanese society. The film's observational approach invites empathy, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in the quiet, lived experiences of marginalized communities through the lens of education and adolescence.