Gangneung Seobu Market
Hyundai Motor Group
Thematic
Documenting Community-Led Regeneration
What We Did
Documentary Planning, On-site Filming, Post-production
Context
Hyundai launched its Urban Regeneration Program in 2014 to address regional inequality through long-term support. Seobumarket in Gangneung, once a central hub now in decline, was selected as the third site. The goal was not to replace the market, but to help it evolve into a shared cultural platform. Our team joined in 2020 with a one-year contract, which extended to three years as the project and the trust behind it deepened.
Challenge
This was not a one-off production. Our challenge was to follow an evolving project across three years while keeping the storytelling clear and consistent. We needed to reflect the different stages of the initiative without repeating ourselves, and stay aligned with the values of inclusion, trust, and community agency. Building rapport with local residents was critical. These relationships were essential to capturing the natural, unfiltered moments that shaped the tone and quality of the film.
Solution
We spent time beyond filming, sharing meals, listening, and building trust with local vendors and youth. That connection allowed stories to unfold naturally. With minimal direction and a quiet, grounded style, we followed the changes as they happened. As a result, we ocould capture a real, ongoing process shaped by those living it.
Watch
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Seobu Market The First Years
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Seobu Market: The Second Year
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Seobu Market: The Final
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From the Team
“Good documentary work starts with trust. We didn’t rush. We spent time with people. That’s what allowed the stories to come through naturally, and that’s what shaped the tone of the film.”
Credit
- DirectorYoonseop Kim
- Executive ProducerMinseok Kim
- Assistant DirectorShiheon Lee
- Cinematographer #1Seungchan Baek
- Cinematographer #2Jongsung Lim