Director Kim Tae-kyun, Jang Nara win at film fest in China

Korean film "Barefoot Dreams" [Showbox]

Korean director Kim Tae-kyun and actress Jang Nara both won honors at an annual film festival in China last week.

A press release from film producer's Showbox announced that Kim received the honor for "Best Foreign Film" for his picture "Barefoot Dreams," while Jang's official website revealed her win as "Best Actress" for her role in movie "Sky and Ocean" at the 19th annual China Golden Rooster & Hundred Flowers Film Festival.

"I want to share this honor with all the members who took part in making this film and the loveable children of East Timor," Kim was quoted as saying in his acceptance speech.

Jang said in her speech, "I would like to first thank the staff and my co-stars for making such a great movie. I understand that ‘Sky and Ocean’ is shown in several countries to give hope to the underprivileged people in the world so I hope that others will get strength from watching the movie as well."

Previous winners at the China Golden Rooster & Hundred Flowers Film Festival include Korean actors Son Ye-jin, Kim Hae-ja and Jung Woo-sung.

The film festival first began in 1962 and resumed after a 17 year break. It is held each year to recognize the best film, actor and actress, supporting actor and actress and best director.

"Barefoot Dreams," which began its run in Korea on June 24, is based on the true story of a former soccer player who teaches the children of East Timor how to play soccer.

Jang made her debut as a singer in 2001, releasing her first album "The First Story" and since became a household name for her many hits such as "Sweet Dreams" and "April Story."

She branched out into acting with roles in the MBC sitcom "Non Stop 2” and "successful Story of a Bright Girl."