
The Korean Film Council (KOFIC) has initiated a cutting-edge global film education initiative in Saudi Arabia. In partnership with the Korean Academy of Film Arts (KAFA) and NEOM Company, this initiative aims to support emerging Saudi filmmakers. This six-day intensive masterclass, led by acclaimed director Kim Tae-yong of Late Autumn and Wonderland, began on January 21, 2025. The program introduces OpenAI’s “Sora” for AI-powered storyboarding, a first in the region, building on Kim’s AI-themed film Wonderland, which premiered at the 28th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival in July 2024.
Saudi Filmmakers Gain Hands-On Experience with Global Leaders
Joining Kim are producer Park Kwan-soo and KAFA professor Na Kyung-chan, who bring decades of industry expertise to the masterclass. Participants, including Fatima Albanawi, director of the upcoming Netflix feature Basma, expressed enthusiasm for the program. Albanawi noted, “Learning from Korean filmmakers during Saudi Arabia’s New Wave Cinema era is an invaluable opportunity”. The initiative aligns with KOFIC’s October 2023 memorandum with NEOM, further solidifying KAFA’s commitment to nurturing Saudi talent.
Expanding Global Footprint with Strategic Collaborations
This masterclass marks KAFA’s third collaboration in Saudi Arabia, following successful programs in Riyadh and Jeddah. KAFA Director Jo Geun-sik emphasized, “The passion and creativity of Saudi Arabia’s emerging creators will shape the future of their film industry”. Beyond the Middle East, KAFA has expanded its global presence through partnerships with France’s CNC and La Fémis film school. Additionally, they have launched programs through Vietnam’s CJ Cultural Foundation and collaborated with Japanese institutions UniJapan and Tokyo University of the Arts. These efforts underscore KAFA’s commitment to nurturing global cinematic talent and fostering creative exchange.
A New Era of Storytelling in Saudi Arabia
The program underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global film industry, leveraging its young population and diverse landscapes. With AI integration and hands-on training, the masterclass aims to elevate production standards and foster cross-cultural collaborations. As Saudi Arabia continues to embrace cinematic innovation, initiatives like this pave the way for a vibrant future in storytelling.
The AI-enhanced masterclass represents a milestone in Saudi-Korean film collaboration, blending technological innovation with artistic mentorship. By empowering emerging filmmakers, KOFIC and KAFA are shaping a new generation of storytellers ready to make their mark on the global stage.