Exclusive: French Distribution Deal Secured for Korean Indie 'The World of Love' with The Jokers Films

The Jokers Films has obtained the French distribution rights for The World of Love, produced by Barunson E&A, which stands as the highest-earning independent Korean film in 2025s domestic box office. The agreement was finalized between Manuel Chiche, founder of The Jokers Films and head of Asian acquisitions, and Sylvie Kim, head of international business at Barunson E&A.

As of November 30, the film surpassed 150,000 admissions in Korea. Directed by Yoon Ga-eun, known for The World of Us (Berlinale 2016) and The House of Us (BFI London 2019), the story follows 17-year-old Lee Jooin (Seo Su-bin), a high school student whose volatile temper sets off a chain of events affecting everyone around her.

The film has received international attention, premiering in the Platform competition at the Toronto International Film Festival and winning awards at the Pingyao International Film Festival and the Warsaw Film Festival. It also screened in the Momentum section at the Cork International Film Festival.

Recently, The World of Love earned the Montgolfire dOr at the 47th Nantes 3 Continents Film Festival, the top prize in the international competition. Previous winners include Hanami (2024), The Shadowless Tower (2023), Glorious Ashes (2022), and Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021). The jury commended the film for tackling a universally denied subject with empathy and insight. They highlighted its ability to celebrate life and love through complex, courageous characters.

Chiche stated, The Jokers are thrilled to distribute The World of Love in France. I havent felt so moved and inspired by a Korean film in a long time. Yoon Ga-eun is an extraordinary director, and some scenes, particularly the car wash sequence, are simply stunning. Sharing such talent is why we do this work, and we are grateful to Barunson E&A for their trust.

Currently, The World of Love is featured at the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival alongside the JAFF Market and will next be shown at the Red Sea Film Festival.

Founded in 2014 by Chiche and Violaine Barbaroux, The Jokers Films has a strong track record in acclaimed international cinema, distributing films such as Parasite, The Handmaiden, 2046, and The Neon Demon.

Commentary: The Rise of Korean Cinema on the Global Stage

The recent acquisition of French distribution rights for The World of Love by The Jokers Films marks a significant moment for the global recognition of Korean cinema. Produced by Barunson E&A, this film has already garnered attention in its home country, becoming the highest-grossing independent Korean film in 2025. With over 150,000 admissions in Korea as of November 30, its success underscores the increasing appeal of Korean films not just domestically, but also internationally.

Directed by Yoon Ga-eun, a filmmaker known for her work on The World of Us (2016) and The House of Us (2019), The World of Love tackles complex, universal themes. The story, revolving around a 17-year-old high school student whose volatile temper leads to significant consequences, resonates with audiences worldwide. The film has already made a strong impression at major festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival, where it premiered in the Platform competition, and it has won multiple accolades such as the Montgolfière d'Or at the 47th Nantes 3 Continents Film Festival.

The acquisition by The Jokers Films is a clear indicator of the growing international appetite for Korean cinema. Manuel Chiche, founder of The Jokers Films, expressed his admiration for the film, calling it a work that "moved and inspired" him. This sentiment is shared by many as the film continues to win hearts at international festivals and screenings. Notably, the film's ability to tackle sensitive topics with empathy and insight has been praised, marking it as an important addition to the ever-growing body of Korean cinematic art.

The success of The World of Love is not just a triumph for its director or production company, but a win for Korean cinema as a whole. The movie’s international recognition highlights the impact of South Korean films on global culture and the entertainment industry. As The Jokers Films continues to bring Korean stories to wider audiences, the boundaries between Eastern and Western cinema are becoming increasingly blurred.

Sources:

• Korean Indie ‘The World of Love’ Lands French Distribution Deal With The Jokers Films (EXCLUSIVE)