[Edaily Reporter YUN GI BACK ] The film “Assassins,” which has been embroiled in controversy over historical distortion, was screened as the opening film at the Singapore International Film Festival, reaching international audiences. While debates surrounding the film continue domestically, it has received favorable reviews at international film festivals, sparking mixed reactions.

According to distributor Hive Media Corp. on the 22nd, Director Heo Jin-ho’s “The Assassin(s)” was screened as the opening film of the 37th Singapore International Film Festival, which began on the 21st. This marks the first time in 22 years that a Korean film has been selected as the festival’s opening film.
Starring Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho, “The Assassin(s)” investigates the suspicions and hidden forces behind the assassination attempt on First Lady Yuk Young-soo on August 15, 1974. In South Korea, controversy has erupted over the film’s blurring of the line between historical fact and cinematic imagination. Although some in political circles demanded that the Singapore International Film Festival withdraw its selection of the film as the opening film, the festival proceeded with the screening as scheduled.
Immediately after the screening, Director Heo Jin-ho expressed his deep gratitude for the festival’s decision. According to the U.S. entertainment publication *Variety*, as the end credits rolled, Director Heo said, “I sincerely thank the festival for upholding artistic freedom and freedom of expression in film,” adding, “This decision will be a great source of courage for everyone involved in making this film, including myself, the crew, and the actors.”
The screening was followed by positive reactions from the local audience. Social media posts shared by the distributor praised the film’s suspense and the actors’ performances. One audience member noted that they felt fully immersed throughout the film, while another remarked that the suspenseful plot development was particularly impressive.
The festival organizers also highlighted the film’s artistic merit and message. Jeremy Chua, Executive Chairman of the Singapore International Film Festival, previously remarked, “‘The Assassin(s)’ is a film that has everything one could expect from an opening film,” adding, “It is a blockbuster that captivates audiences while retaining the distinctive vision of an auteur director, and it serves as a timely reminder of why freedom of the press and truth are so important.”
This is not the first time the film has received acclaim at international film festivals. “The Assassin(s)” previously sold out every screening prior to its public premiere at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival and was named a runner-up for the International Audience Award. Domestically, despite controversy, it garnered significant audience interest, ranking as the fourth highest-grossing Korean film of the year.
While debates over historical distortion continue domestically, international audiences are focusing on the film’s suspense as a political thriller, as well as its direction and the actors’ performances. Amid these mixed reviews, attention is focused on what results “The Assassin(s)” will achieve on the international stage.