Synopsis

Embark on a captivating musical journey through the history of Korean American immigrants in Hawaiʻi. This film intricately weaves together three episodes, blending historical narratives with soul-stirring musical performances. The first episode explores 120 years of Korean American history, using unseen archival images and footage to bring the immigrant experience to life. The second episode portrays the life of Lim Ok Soon, a "picture bride," with Grammy-winning violist Richard Youngjae O'Neil providing enchanting music. The final episode is a heartfelt tribute to the souls resting in Molokaʻi's Kalaupapa, featuring moving renditions of 'Aloha ʻOe' and other classics by violinist Chee-yun, Ignace 'Iggy' Jang, and slack-key guitarist Keola Beamer, creating a deeply moving cinematic experience.

Program Note

Songs of Love from Hawaii is an archival music documentary that reconstructs the history of Koreans who left for Hawaii over 120 years ago. Narrated by actress Ye Soojeong, the film evokes a sense of human connection with those who have vanished, who together form the vast history of Korean immigration to Hawaii. While modern audiences may recognize Hawaii only as a paradise for tourists, the film reveals a different side of the islands, unfolding like an old tale. Korean musicians such as Richard Yongjae O'Neill and Chee-Yun perform beautiful and delicate pieces, touching the souls of the Korean immigrants who settled in Hawaii. (Choi Eunyoung)

Director

• 
  • Lee Jinyoung
  • Lee Jinyoung graduated in Journalism and Multimedia from Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Since relocating to Hawaii in 2005, she has seamlessly combined her journalism expertise with cinema. Her debut film, The Words of Wisdom from the Rainbow State(2021), garnered global acclaim and was showcased at the 41st Hawaii International Film Festival. Her latest work, Songs of Love from Hawaii(2024), skillfully integrates cultures through music, featuring rare historic photos and performances by world-renowned musicians. The film will air on PBS Hawaii and be released nationwide in Korea with CGV Korea this fall. Jinyoung has also received the Best Emerging Filmmaker Award from both the Liberty International Movie Festival and the Tagore International Film Festival.

Ticket Booking Guidelines

※ General Screenings: Tickets for general screenings can be reserved through the official website (www.jimff.org).

※ Cheongpung Land Ticket Box: Tickets for general screenings cannot be purchased or issued at the Cheongpung Land ticket box.

※ Mobile Tickets: When booking online through the official website (www.jimff.org), you can enter the venue using a mobile ticket without needing to issue a physical ticket.

※ Music Programs: Tickets for music programs booked through Melon Ticket can only be issued at the ticket box of the specific program venue.

Program Schedule