CineCube, a Hub for Art Films, Marks 25 Years... “Embarking on a New Journey”

[Financial News]"The very existence of 'a theater like this' in the heart of Seoul, at Gwanghwamun, is truly precious."At 7 p.m. on the 2nd, at 'CineCube Gwanghwamun' in Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, more than 200 guests—including film directors, actors, producers, and officials from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST)—attended the 25th anniversary ceremony of CineCube, an art cinema operated by T.cast, a TKG TAEKWANG media affiliate.
As participants reflected on the meaningful 25-year journey of this art cinema and discussed its future vision, many expressed surprise that 'a theater like this' still exists today.
Their admiration stemmed from CineCube’s steadfast commitment to independent and art films over the past 25 years. In a multiplex-dominated cinema ecosystem, art theaters like CineCube have supported the diversity of Korean cinema from a perspective distinct from commercial interests, earning respect as dignified venues for film lovers.

Tracing back, CineCube opened its doors on December 2, 2000, making it the oldest art cinema in Korea. Upholding its principle of providing an optimal viewing environment, it has served as a pillar for independent and art films for 25 years.
Notably, the theater was established at the suggestion of Lee Ho-jin, former chairman of TKG TAEKWANG, with the aim of creating a space in the city where citizens could freely enjoy culture and the arts. CineCube has since become a representative venue for preserving the diversity and public value of independent and art films.
Eom Jae-yong, CEO of T.cast, explained, "Since its founding based on Chairman Lee’s vision, CineCube has remained at the center of Korean art cinema. We look forward to continuing this journey for the next 25 years."
Committed to diversity and public value, CineCube hosted the 'Hirokazu Kore-eda Special: 25 Years with Kore-eda' retrospective in April and the 'CineCube 25th Anniversary Special: Films We Loved' in November, featuring beloved films from the past 25 years. Additionally, the commemorative film 'Time of Cinema' was produced for the anniversary.
Especially noteworthy, 'Time of Cinema'—an anthology film combining three shorts: 'Chimpanzee' by Lee Jong Pil, 'Naturally' by Yoon Ga-eun, and 'Time of Film' by Jang Kun-jae—was screened at the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) in September. The film explores the artistic and social significance of theaters through the stories of diverse characters, including audiences, directors, and actors.


During the event, 'Time of Cinema' was specially screened to mark CineCube’s 25th anniversary.
In 'Chimpanzee,' part of 'Time of Cinema,' film enthusiasts Godo, Momo, and Jeje become engrossed in a mysterious chimpanzee story they encounter by chance. As time passes, Godo, left alone, returns to the theater in Gwanghwamun, reflecting deeply on the meaning of cinema.
Another segment, 'Naturally,' presents a director who wants to capture children playing naturally. He instructs them to act as if they are simply playing with friends, prompting the children to ponder what it means to act naturally.
The final short, 'Time of Film,' uses metaphor to depict the lives of a theater janitor, a projectionist, and a manager who serendipitously meet at the cinema and fill their lives with cinematic meaning.

'Time of Cinema' posed various questions to the audience about the existence of independent and art films, as well as the role of theaters. While each short offered a unique perspective, the overarching theme was the same: Are the joys and sorrows once felt in the theater still relevant today?
During the stage greeting, the directors of 'Time of Cinema' shared their affection for CineCube. Jang Kun-jae remarked, "Gwanghwamun has City Hall Square, Cheonggyecheon, and CineCube," leaving a memorable quote.
Lee Jong Pil noted, "Of all the art cinemas that once existed in Gwanghwamun, only CineCube remains. That’s why it becomes more precious with each passing year."
Yoon Ga-eun shared, "During CineCube’s 25 years in Gwanghwamun, I encountered countless films that changed my life. I hope that for the next 50 or even 100 years, many more life-changing films will continue to be screened here."


Following the '25th Anniversary Special: Films We Loved,' CineCube is currently hosting its year-end program, the '2025 CineCube Art Film Premiere Festival.'
Running through the 7th, the festival features new works by world-renowned directors such as Jim Jarmusch, Richard Linklater, Michel Franco, and Sho Miyake, as well as films by emerging directors recognized at major international film festivals.
With this anniversary event, CineCube is officially embarking on a new journey toward the next 25 years.


rsunjun@fnnews.com Yoo Sun-joon Reporter