Daniel Dae Kim Backs School for Defectors Doc

Daniel Dae Kim and his production company, 3AD, have joined the documentary "School for Defectors" as executive producers. This film shines a spotlight on Jangdaehyun School, a unique institution in Busan, South Korea, dedicated to students who have defected from North Korea. The school, with its 20 students, offers a rare glimpse into a community previously unfilmed.

The documentary, directed by Jeremy Workman, delves into the young defectors' lives, acknowledging their past struggles and their hopes for the future. "School for Defectors" made its debut at the True/False Film Festival in March and has since been screened at over a dozen festivals, securing six awards. It is slated for a screening at Doc NYC.

Workman, known for his portraits of unusual individuals, stated that the film is a universal story about youth, hope, and the desire to belong, rather than solely about North Korea. Kim expressed excitement about supporting the film, believing in documentary's power to convey stories with heart and humanity. 3AD's involvement adds to its nonfiction portfolio, which previously included the Oscar-shortlisted "Bad Axe."