Korean Drama ‘Family Secrets’ Inspired by Ferry Disaster Acquired by EST N8 at Hong Kong FilMart (EXCLUSIVE)

8N, an international business entity encompassing sales, production, and finance, has purchased “Family Secrets,” a heartfelt Korean family drama helmed by director Lee Sang-hoon (known for “Windmill”), during the Hong Kong FilMart event.

This movie unfolds the tale of a typical Korean family, where each member secretly embarks on unique paths unbeknownst to one another. For example, the eldest daughter Mina forgoes her piano practice sessions to enroll in martial arts classes instead. The plot gradually discloses that these fresh endeavors are intertwined with commitments made to their late family member Seung-hyun, who tragically lost his life in the Sewol ferry disaster.

In contrast to most portrayals of the Sewol Ferry tragedy, ‘Family Secrets’ emphasizes optimism over sadness. As director Lee Sang-hoon explains, the families of the victims prefer to discuss positive and joyful memories rather than the disaster itself. In their shared pain, they offer solace and encouragement to one another through uplifting conversations. This is why I too aimed to provide consolation to the grieving families with my movie.

In 2020, the movie clinched the top award at the Cultural Contents Contest and boasts a star-studded cast, with Kim Hye-eun, renowned for her roles in action films such as “Revolver” (2024), and Kim Bo-Yoon, who previously appeared in the horror film “Lingering” (2020).

The movie won the highest honor at the 2020 Cultural Contents Contest. It has an impressive lineup of actors like Kim Hye-eun, famous for her action movies like “Revolver” (2024), and Kim Bo-Yoon, who was in the horror film “Lingering” (2020).

Made by Oyes Co., Ltd., the movie is now part of EST N8’s expanding collection of Asian content. “We’re thrilled to share this heartwarming and complex Korean drama with audiences,” commented Jaeson Ma, chairman of EST Studios. “This significant story will resonate with fans of the genre and captivate new viewers as well.

The deal was brokered by Tenten Wei, Sophie Shi, and Cathy Ni of EST N8.

Additionally, our sales portfolio encompasses various titles such as the Indonesian horror movies “Sorop,” “Hutang Nyawa,” and “Perewangan”; the Korean thriller “30 Minutes”; the Japanese fantasy flick “River Returns”; and the Malaysian action movie “Budak Flat,” along with several others.

In 2022, EST Studios was set up, spearheaded by Jaeson Ma (of Stampede Ventures and 88rising) and Eric Tu (Vice, Anonymous Content). On the other hand, N8 was inaugurated in 2023 by Kris Eiamsakulrat and Rachel Y. Wu, standing as an autonomous film studio headquartered in Bangkok with additional offices in New York and LA.

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2025-03-19 08:46