The 23rd Seoul International Environmental Film Festival (SIEFF), hosted by the Korea Green Foundation, is set to present a unique festival celebrating the bond between humans and their companion animals. The 'Earth We Pet Family Festival,' taking place on Sunday, June 14, at Yongma Falls Park in Jungnang-gu, Seoul, will feature a diverse lineup of outdoor screenings, insightful talks, and engaging experience booths. This special event aims to explore the harmonious coexistence of humans and animals, offering a meaningful opportunity for pets and their guardians to enjoy together and reflect on the true meaning of living in harmony.
Highlighting 'Mungchi on the Road' with Special Guest Appearances
The Korea Green Foundation, as part of the 23rd Seoul International Environmental Film Festival, will host the 'Earth We Pet Family Festival' on Sunday, June 14, starting at 3 PM. The event will take place at the Multipurpose Plaza of Yongma Falls Park in Jungnang-gu, Seoul. This festival offers a wide array of programs designed for companion animals and their guardians to enjoy together, including an outdoor film screening, talk sessions, a flea market, and various experience booths.
A major highlight of the festival will be an outdoor screening of the animated film 'Mungchi on the Road'. This latest work by renowned Korean animation director Oh Sung-yoon, known for 'Leafie, A Hen into the Wild' and 'Underdog,' garnered significant attention even before its release, with actors Do Kyung-soo, Park So-dam, and Park Chul-min lending their voices to the narration. The film portrays a world where humans and animals coexist through a warm lens, encouraging deeper contemplation on the meaning of living in harmony with companion animals.
Before the screening, a special stage greeting will feature director Oh Sung-yoon, who is also serving as a jury member for this year's SIEFF International Competition, and actor Park Chul-min. They will meet with the audience to share behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the film.
Engaging Programs for Pets and Their Guardians
Beyond the film screening, the 'Earth We Pet Family Festival' has prepared a wealth of interactive programs for companion animals and their guardians. The 'Pet Family Talk,' focusing on abandoned animal protection and adoption culture, will feature comedian Park Sung-kwang and the non-profit organization Uumpa. They will engage in heartfelt discussions about abandoned animal rescue efforts, life after adoption, and the journey of pets becoming cherished family members.
The 'My Pet Olympics,' hosted by pet culture expert MC Punky, is anticipated to infuse the festival with a lively atmosphere. This competition will feature various events where pets can demonstrate their talents and training achievements, including a 'Wait Challenge,' 'Nose Work Challenge,' and 'Talent Show.' Winners will be awarded a special 'Daeng Medal'.
Additionally, a variety of on-site programs focusing on pet care will be available. Attendees can look forward to booths offering practical and enjoyable experiences, such as 'Behavior Correction Trainer 1:1 Consultations,' 'Hygiene & Grooming Experience Centers,' 'Pet Tarot Consultations,' and 'Family Pet Caricature' services.
Experience Booths for Environmental Awareness and Animal Rights, Plus Participation Details
This year's festival will feature enhanced experiential programs that integrate pet care with the values of environmental protection and animal rights. Attendees can visit the Meritz Fire & Marine Insurance 'Petppermint' pet insurance booth and the Uumpa adoption culture campaign booth to gain valuable information on responsible pet ownership and the adoption of abandoned animals.
Additionally, several engaging experience booths are designed to raise awareness about the environment and animal rights. These include eco-friendly activities such as 'Upcycled Pet Tug Toy Making,' 'Low-Carbon Pet Shampoo Bar Making,' 'Upcycled Keyring Making,' and a 'Mini Agility Playground.' These activities provide pet owners with opportunities to actively participate in environmental protection and practice sustainable pet living.
Applications to participate in the festival opened on May 18, with registration for 500 teams on a first-come, first-served basis via a Google Form link on the Seoul International Environmental Film Festival's official Instagram. Each team can consist of up to three people and one companion dog, and participation is free. Early applicants will receive a welcome kit, also on a first-come, first-served basis, containing items such as two types of chicken and vegan pet food, a 'Mungchi on the Road' bookmark, an upcycled cup holder, and a dental care kit.
