Overview
On April 28, 1986, two students, twenty-year-old Kim Se-jin and Lee Jae-ho, immolated themselves to death, shouting slogans, “No war, no nuclear weapons, Yankee go home,” “U.S. sign the peace treaty with North Korea,” and “Expel American imperialists.” This took place in the midst of a public demonstration against the forced conscription of students, joined by approximately four hundred students and held at the Sinrim crossroads facing the Seoul National University main gate. The manner of their deaths, the radicalness of their slogans (they were the first overtly anti-American statements to be heard in public since the conclusion of the Korean War) deeply shocked Korean society at the time. Twenty years have since passed. The world has changed.
Frequently Asked Questions & Story Details
Who directed The Past is a Strange Country?
The Past is a Strange Country was directed by Kim Eung-soo.
Where was The Past is a Strange Country produced?
It was produced by companies including Unknown Production Companies in South Korea.
The Past is a Strange Country Ending Explained & Trivia
The ending of The Past is a Strange Country wraps up key thematic points regarding its characters. The film showcases excellent use of sound design, writing, and visual effects to create an immersive cinematic environment. For full analysis of ending theories, you can check out our corresponding articles in the Lumaflicks Blog section.
Ready to watch?
Stream The Past is a Strange Country right now — no waiting.

