The Square (2025) | Film-Rezensionen.de
Review: ‘Square’ Explores Isolation and Forbidden Love in North Korea
SEOUL, South Korea – Kim Bo-sol’s debut animated feature, “Square,” offers a poignant look at isolation and forbidden romance set against the backdrop of North Korea. The film, already generating buzz on the festival circuit, distinguishes itself with its unique setting and focus on character-driven drama.
A Swedish Expatriate’s Life in Pyongyang
The film centers on Isak borg, a Swedish national working in Pyongyang.While he enjoys a comfortable life compared to many, his existence is marked by profound loneliness. Shielded from the general population, Isak finds even his translator maintaining a professional distance, a result of the suspicion leveled at all foreigners in the country. His only consistent contact is with Seo Bok-joo, a traffic officer with whom he develops feelings. However, any relationship is strictly forbidden.
South korean Animation Steps Forward
While Japan and China dominate the international animation scene with anime and films like “Ne Zha 2,” South Korean animation has struggled to achieve mainstream success. Despite producing critically acclaimed works such as “The King of Pigs” and “Beauty Water,” the industry has remained largely a niche market. “Square” aims to break that mold,showcasing the quality and artistic potential of South Korean animation.
Drama Over Espionage
Unlike many films set in North Korea that lean into spy thriller tropes, ”Square” is a drama. Kim Bo-sol focuses on Isak’s life, highlighting both his privileged position and his profound lack of meaningful connection. The film poignantly depicts Isak’s attempts to connect with those around him, emphasizing his longing for belonging in a place where he remains an outsider.
Atmospheric Storytelling
As the film progresses, Isak’s story evolves into a romance, or at least something resembling one from his viewpoint.The reasons behind his feelings for seo Bok-joo remain ambiguous, with their relationship feeling somewhat superficial. However, the film effectively conveys the emotional stakes when their secret love faces inevitable challenges, threatening Isak’s last connection to the outside world.
“Square” avoids sensationalism, relying rather on a calmly told narrative and atmospheric visuals. Despite its limited budget, the film effectively portrays the bleak yet occasionally gorgeous cityscape of Pyongyang and its inhabitants. Kim’s approach allows the story’s inherent drama to resonate, making “Square” a film deserving of a wider audience.
Film Details
- original Title: “The Square”
- Country: South Korea
- Year: 2025
- Director: Kim Bo-sol
- Writer: Kim Bo-sol
- Music: Yong-jin Jeong
Festival Appearances
- international Cartoon Festival Stuttgart 2025
- Annecy 2025
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Review: ‘Square’ Explores isolation and Forbidden Love in North Korea – Your Questions Answered
What is “Square” about?
“Square” is Kim Bo-sol’s debut animated feature, offering a poignant look at isolation and forbidden romance set against the backdrop of North Korea. The film focuses on the life of Isak Borg, a Swedish expatriate living in Pyongyang, and his forbidden feelings for Seo Bok-joo, a traffic officer.
Who is the main character in “Square”?
The film centers on Isak Borg,a Swedish national working in Pyongyang.
Where is “Square” set?
The film is set in Pyongyang, North Korea.
What is the central theme of “Square”?
The central themes of “Square” are isolation and forbidden romance. The film explores the loneliness experienced by a foreigner in North Korea and the challenges of connection in a restrictive society.
Is “Square” a spy thriller?
No, “Square” is not a spy thriller. Instead, it is a character-driven drama that focuses on the emotional experiences of Isak Borg.
What kind of relationship does Isak have with Seo Bok-joo?
Isak develops feelings for Seo Bok-joo, a traffic officer. Though, any relationship between them is strictly forbidden.
What is the meaning of the setting in “Square”?
The North Korean setting is crucial to the film’s themes. It emphasizes the protagonist’s isolation and highlights the restrictions placed on relationships due to suspicion of foreigners.
How does “Square” differ from other films set in North Korea?
Unlike many films set in North Korea that focus on spy thrillers, “Square” is a drama. It prioritizes character progress and emotional storytelling over sensationalism.
What is the animation style like in ”Square”?
The text specifically mentions that “Square” offers atmospheric visuals and a calmly told narrative.This implies a focus on visual storytelling and creating a specific mood.
What is South Korean animation like?
South Korean animation has struggled to achieve mainstream success,despite producing critically acclaimed works.”Square” aims to showcase the quality and artistic potential of South Korean animation and break into wider markets.
What are some of the key details about “Square”?
Here are some key details about the film:
- Original Title: “The Square”
- Country: South Korea
- Year: 2025
- Director & Writer: Kim Bo-sol
- Music: Yong-jin Jeong
where has “Square” been shown?
“Square” has been shown at the international Cartoon Festival Stuttgart 2025 and Annecy 2025.
Why is “Square” a film that deserves a wider audience?
“Square” is deserving of a wider audience becuase it offers a unique and compelling story with atmospheric visuals, focusing on themes of isolation and forbidden love in an unusual setting.
Key Differences: “Square” vs. typical North Korean Films
To better understand how “Square” stands out, here’s a swift comparison:
| Feature | “Square” | Typical North Korean Films |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Character-driven Drama | Often spy thrillers or action-oriented |
| Focus | Isolation, romance, emotional connection | Espionage, political intrigue, external conflict |
| Main Character Perspective | Swedish expatriate’s experience | focus on North Korean citizens or defectors |