Kim Dong-ho

Honorary Adviser, Okinawa International Movie Festival
Emeritus Chairman, Busan International Film Festival

Congratulations on the opening of the 8th Okinawa International Movie Festival.
Okinawa is a “Historic/Cultural Island” which treasures the extremely unique culture of the Ryukyu kingdom. This is also a “land of tragedy” for so many Japanese and American military personnel, and Korean people that were drawn into the Second World War, and as many as 1/4 of the residents that fell victim. I believe that there is very deep meaning that the 8th Okinawa International Movie Festival has come to be opened here on this island. The red carpet which was held in several different locations at last year’s “Okinawa International Movie Festival” is a particularly impressive memory. The Okinawa International Movie Festival provides “hope and courage” with its theme of “Laugh & Peace” to residents of Okinawa that so crave peace.
I have been able to visit Okinawa for every year. But the opportunity to laugh along with the bright, friendly peo-ple of this “land of tragedy”, against its gorgeous natural setting, and to enjoy the films and performances of vari-ous entertainers is truly unique to Okinawa, and is something that could not be seen anywhere else in the world. I also have a great deal of respect and admiration for President Osaki of Yoshimoto Kogyo, who has led this Okinawa International Movie Festival for eight years now, amidst extremely difficult circumstances. I offer my heartfelt greeting and thanks to everyone involved in this Okinawa International Movie Festival, especially the people of Okinawa.
Finally, I offer my congratulations on the continued growth year by year of the Okinawa International Movie Festival, and hope for its continued success.