The Russian Ministry of Culture has refused to issue a distribution permit for the film «Hana Korea,» which was scheduled for release in theaters on April 30.
According to distributor U Films, the ministry cited a rule allowing permits to be denied «in other cases stipulated by federal laws.» No further explanation was provided.
«We are deeply sorry that Russian audiences will not have the legal opportunity to see this touching film,» U Films said in a statement.
The film, directed by Danish filmmaker Frederik Sølberg, tells the story of Hyesun, who flees from North Korea to South Korea to earn money for her mother’s medical treatment. Sølberg co-wrote the screenplay with North Korean defector Sharon Choi.
Although authorities did not give a specific reason for denying the permit, the decision may be linked to Russia’s close ties with North Korea.
