Program Notes

This film is considered to have opened a new chapter in Korean music movies. The 1949 film starred singer Hyun-in, who was at the height of her popularity at the time with songs like “Moonlight in Silla,” and composer Hwang Moon-pyeong, who scored many films from the 1950s through the 1980s, was on the staff (and also appeared in a small role). Unfortunately, only a small portion of the film has survived, but the existing footage is enough to see the protagonist's musical struggles and growth unfold. Scenes of the interior and exterior of the Gonghwagwan (now Myeongdong Arts Theater), the recording process, and the crowds in front of a musical instrument store are also valuable as documentary evidence of the music culture of the time. (Lee Jun-hee)

Synopsis

Hyun-in, a country boy with outstanding singing talent, goes to Seoul and wins a contest, leading him to a successful career as a singer. Many ladies pursue him, but he marries his lover from the countryside, Geum-nyeo. A 1949 film starring the most popular singer of the time, Hyun-in. It is considered the beginning of Korean music film.

Director

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  • Yoo Dong-il