A Seven-Episode Video Autobiography Series
Revealing Seniors' Cherished Memories,
Heartfelt Letters to Family, and Stories of Life in Seoul
Sequentially Released This Month on the Jongno Cultural Foundation Blog and YouTube Channel
[Asia Economy, Reporter Park Jongil] Jongno-gu has garnered attention by producing and releasing online a video autobiography series that introduces cherished belongings and the stories behind them from local seniors, sharing reflections on their past lives.
This video autobiography project was launched with the belief that "every life is precious, meaningful, and worth remembering." It is part of the "2021 Local Culture Promotion Project: N Seoul." The project is organized by "Daehakro-Ae, Daehakro-In Network," a group of theater professionals and associates based in Daehakro.
The series consists of a total of seven episodes, which have been released sequentially on the Jongno Cultural Foundation’s blog and YouTube channel since January 4. By January 20, four episodes had been uploaded. To recruit participants, the district previously accepted applications in October of last year from residents who wished to document their lives on video.
The first episode features Kim Pyeongyeon, a senior who moved to Seoul in 1972 and lived a hardworking life in Changsin-dong and Pyeonghwa Market. He candidly shares stories from his dating days, describing how, despite not even having enough space to lie down after work, he found happiness peeling pine nuts with his wife throughout the night.
The protagonist of the second episode is Kim Dongho, who has operated a rice cake mill in Ihwa-dong for 40 years. The episode tells how he rose early every morning for decades to make rice cakes with care, brought joy to countless celebrations, and raised his children. It also features a heartfelt video letter expressing his love for his family.
The third episode features Kim Ok from Chungsin-dong (photo). It unfolds the journey from being born in Jeju Island to making Jongno-gu, Seoul, a second home, as well as stories about the sewing machine that has been with her like family for many years.
The fourth episode introduces Song Daeseop, who has lived in Jongno for over 50 years. It captures his feelings upon moving into a new home and the story of a treasured watch gifted by his second son, whom he closely resembles, all within a single video.
A district official stated, "This project was launched to highlight the jewel-like pasts of local seniors and to find meaning in their lives," adding, "All seven episodes will be uploaded to the Jongno Cultural Foundation YouTube channel by the end of this month."
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