Kiki Sugino
Kiki Sugino, originally named Seo Yeong Hwa, is a talented actress and producer who has made significant strides in both the Korean and Japanese film industries. Born in Hiroshima, Japan, to Korean parents who are part of the Zainichi Korean community, Sugino's diverse heritage has informed her artistic journey.
Her acting career took off in South Korea with her debut in the film "One Shining Day" in 2005. She gained further recognition when acclaimed director Kim Ki Duk cast her in a supporting role in his 2006 film "Time." Following her success in Korea, Sugino returned to Japan, where she made her mark in the industry with a leading role in Tetsuo Shinohara's 2008 film "Clearness."
In addition to her acting prowess, Sugino has embraced the role of producer. She established her own production company, Wa Entertainment, through which she has brought several projects to life. Among her notable works as a producer are the thought-provoking films "Magic and Loss" and the short film "Exhalation," directed by Malaysian filmmaker Edmund Yeo. Additionally, she produced and starred in "Hospitalité," a feature film by Koji Fukada, both released in 2010. Through her multifaceted contributions, Kiki Sugino continues to leave a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape.