Born in Daegu, the most right-wing city in South Korea, 1954. Former high-school teacher and acclaimed novelist, turned into cinema over 40 years old. Debut film "Green Fish" (1997) brought immediate success and critical applause. "Peppermint Candy" (2000), seemingly having same 'lost innocence' theme as former work, shoots fiery criticism against yet powerful remnants of military dictatorship regime. With "Oasis" (2002), received countless award including special director's award in Venice Film Festival. Since 2003, worked as Minister of Culture in newly elected liberal government.
