Recently, there is a greater number of people seeking new cultural experiences, and there are new cultural spaces to cater to their interests, such as “Jachehuegang Cinema” and “Ddackddaguri Books.” Jachehuegang Cinema and Ddackddaguri Books are two familiar types of businesses but they each have their own unique characteristics that set them apart from others. Pharos will find out what makes these two spaces special.

 Jachehuegang Cinema is a movie theater located in Gwanak-gu, Seoul, which mainly screens independent films, not commercial films that most people commonly enjoy. The owner, who was interested in short films, opened an independent movie theater with the intention of helping the producers of short films. 

 Unlike large movie theaters that book movies according to a set time table, at Jachehuegang Cinema, you can choose the movie you want among this month’s screenings and watch the movie. All screenings of Jachehuegang Cinema are determined by the owner. All four films of the month are directly screened by the owner, who focuses on their cinematic quality and completeness, and then he carefully selects the films so that the theme and genre do not overlap. In particular, in the case of short films, the quality of the acting is more significant because of the low cost production. Therefore, how well the actors performed according to the director’s intentions is also an important criterion for selecting films. 

 The owner said that when we visit the cinema, he can recommend a movie that suits our taste and has a low barrier to entry. He also added that those who like independent films should feel free to visit the cinema and those who are new to independent films should try not to have preconceptions about independent films such as expecting societal subject matter or themes that are difficult and heavy. Jachehuegang Cinema charges 3,000 won per person for short films and 5,000 won for feature films, so you can watch movies at a lower price than at large movie theaters. In addition, there are no restrictions on bringing in outside food and beverages, so you can watch films in a convenient setting. Watching a blockbuster movie in a large movie theater is good, but enjoying a movie comfortably in a small movie theater will be a memorable experience.

* Address: B1, 42 Inheon 12-gil, Gwanak-gu, Seoul

  Instagram @huegang

 Ddackddaguri Books is an independent bookstore newly opened near Padalmun Gate last April. Various independent publications are on display. There are some books about Suwon that show regional characteristics as well as more general publications. Necklaces made with upcycled marine products and interior pieces such as fabric posters are available, too. 

 Above all, the factors that make this bookstore so special are the small exhibitions and performances held there. From last April to May, the “My Paradise, My Hillock, Isn’t Here But Is There” exhibition by Yeosol Jeong was held. From last June to July, there was an exhibition by Changyun Jeong titled “Tools for Recording Living Things.” Ddackddaguri Books is trying to make the artworks naturally integrate into the bookstore, breaking down the border between a bookstore and a gallery. Thus, visitors can realize that seeing an exhibition is an easy daily activity at the store. 

 Moreover, Ddackddaguri Books is leading an offbeat performance culture. They are running a project called ‘Stage on the Canvas.’ It is a challenge that combines fine art and music to make special concerts. Recently, they held a concert called “Veranda” with the music group ‘Bruna’ and visual-artist Taekang Lee. Furthermore, small piano concerts and guitar concerts are often held. Ddackddaguri Books is a revolution of a bookstore. They have shown that bookstores can be cheerful and lively, not just quiet. 

* Address: 6-7, Jeongjo-ro 800beon-gil, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si 

  Instagram @ddackddaguri__books

 If you turn your head a little from what you are used to seeing, you can easily find something new and fresh. Pharos would recommend visiting unique places like Jachehuegang Cinema and Ddackddaguri Books for a deep, rich cultural experience.

76th Reporter • CHOI BO YOUN • invierno.y@kyonggi.ac.kr

78th Reporter • JOUNG DONG JUN • beancurd123@kyonggi.ac.kr