Beijing watches South Korean films
( CRI)
Updated: 2004-12-06 13:37

Twelve South Korean films premiered on Friday in Beijing as part of the 2004 Beijing-South Korean Film Festival. Among a host of South Korean directors and film stars at the premiere, it was actor Cha Tae Yhun who stole the spotlight. Also on Friday, a South Korean pop concert delighted crowds at the Beijing Exhibition Center Theatre.

Language barriers and characteristic Korean reserve meant the premiere didn't really get going until the arrival of Cha Tai Yhun. Cha is hugely popular in Asia following his role in the 2003 romantic comedy "My Sassy Girl", in which he puts up with his bullying girlfriend.

When asked about Chinese films, Cha sang the praises of Hong Kong comedian Stephen Chow and his action comedy "Shaolin Football". South Korean Actor Cha Tae Yhun said, "I had known little about Stephen Chow until I watched "Shaolin Football". It was very very fun. I liked his performance."

Also on Friday, Beijing celebrated the musical aspects of South Korea. South Korean pop is a huge hit in China and the concert featured some of the hottest acts from both countries, including Shao Baoliang, Anson Hu and Jang Nara. Jang Nara's sizzling dance and song routine nearly brought the house down with fans delighted to discover she could sing in Chinese.