Korea & Sakha Sign Film Co-Production Pact

The Producers Guild of Korea (PGK) and the Sakha Filmmakers Association (SFA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create a direct route to international co-productions and professional exchange between the Korean and Sakha screen production sectors. The MOU was signed at the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) in Busan.

The partnership aims to establish a new framework for co-production between Korean and Sakha producers, including project showcases, producer-to-producer meetings, and B2B sessions. This will enable the identification of projects with international potential and facilitate their development towards co-production.

PGK has previously signed MOUs with other international organizations, including the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA), the Hong Kong Film Production Executives Association (HKFPEA), the Indonesian Film Producers Association (APROFI), and the Brazilian Audiovisual Industry Union (SIAESP). PGK President Lee Dong-ha stated that the MOU will open a direct channel between the Korean and Sakha production communities.

The Sakha Republic has a film industry that produces films mostly in the Sakha (Yakut) language and has a strong local theatrical audience. The partnership will be brought to major international markets, including ACFM, Hong Kong Filmart, and the Cannes Marché du Film, creating new opportunities for Sakha projects to connect with the wider Asian and international industry.

## Why it matters The MOU between PGK and SFA is significant as it will facilitate the exchange of ideas, resources, and expertise between the two screen production sectors. This partnership will not only benefit the film industries in Korea and Sakha but also contribute to the growth of the global film industry. The collaboration will enable the creation of new and innovative content, showcasing the unique cultures and perspectives of both countries.

## What happens next The partnership is expected to lead to the development of new co-production projects, with the two organizations working together to identify and support projects with international potential. The project showcases, producer-to-producer meetings, and B2B sessions will provide a platform for industry professionals to network, share ideas, and collaborate on new projects. As the partnership progresses, it is likely to lead to increased cooperation and collaboration between the Korean and Sakha film industries, resulting in the creation of new and exciting content for audiences around the world.