Meet Sungbin Moon | Film Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sungbin Moon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sungbin, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
When I graduated from high school in Korea in 2020, COVID-19 had just turned the world upside down. Like many others, I felt lost and uncertain about my future. My mom suggested I go to America to study, but I was hesitant and unsure if it was the right move. I turned to my high school theater mentor Mr. Jun, whose advice I deeply trusted. I asked him, “Do you think going to America is the right decision?” He looked at me thoughtfully and said, “Moon, whether the choice you made is right or not isn’t something you can judge now. All you can do is do your best to make that choice a good one.” He also handed me $200 as a token of his encouragement.

His words stuck with me. They taught me that it’s not only the result but also our effort and dedication that make any choice the right one. The idea that it takes courage to give up often seems like an excuse to avoid facing challenges. Instead, I embraced my mentor’s advice, keeping his words close to my heart. I strive to excel in every endeavor, confident that my hard work and commitment will prove my decisions were right in the end.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m passionate about telling stories that capture the essence of ordinary life across generations. My career spans various narrative fictions inspired by real events, and recently, I’ve ventured into documentary filmmaking, focusing on the lives of older adults. Unlike scripted films, documentaries involve real people and their unpredictable lives, making the process both challenging and immensely rewarding. Building trust with my participants takes time, and plans often need to be flexible to adapt to real-life circumstances. This unpredictability is what I love most about documentary filmmaking.

Capturing the lives of elderly individuals is particularly fulfilling for me. Their faces, marked by years of experiences, tell stories that are both poignant and enlightening. Many people wonder why I focus on the lives of ordinary seniors instead of more dramatic tales of success. To me, these everyday experiences are extraordinarily special. In this modern world where reality and fiction often blur, my goal is to create authentic art that honors the true essence of life. This approach allows me to contribute something meaningful to society, preserving the stories of those who might otherwise be overlooked.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were to visit, I’d take them to Huntington Beach Central Park, a place that holds a special charm throughout the year. This park isn’t grand or flashy, but it offers a serene and peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. In spring, the cherry blossoms are beautiful. During the summer, the park’s greenery and the ducks on the pond provide a calming atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and reflection. Autumn transforms the park with vibrant foliage, while winter brings a crisp, refreshing air that makes for walks. Also, Orange Circle in Orange is one of my favorite places as well. We could stroll around without needing to drive, exploring antique malls. We could enjoy the vintage charm and grab a quick bite at a nearby café. The Orange Circle is perfect for leisurely walks and discovering hidden gems.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my mentor, Mr. Jun, and my family back in Korea. Although they are physically distant, their love and support are constants in my life, providing me with the strength and motivation to pursue my dreams. Mr. Jun’s guidance has been instrumental in shaping my perspective and approach to challenges. His belief in my potential has been a source of inspiration, pushing me to strive for excellence in everything I do. My family’s unwavering support has been a cornerstone of my journey. Despite the miles that separate us, their encouragement and belief in me are always felt, giving me the confidence to navigate through the ups and downs of life abroad.

Their support goes beyond words; it is a deep, abiding connection that transcends distance. We may not communicate frequently, but the strength of their love and encouragement is a constant presence in my life. Their belief in me has been a driving force, helping me to overcome challenges and stay focused on my goals. Without their guidance and love, I wouldn’t be where I am today. They are my foundation, and I am endlessly grateful for their unwavering support.

Website: https://sungbinmoon.myportfolio.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moon___shot_/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sungbin-moon-2a5b18142/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxiBv7g3Z3REYrj1XJJVJCg

Image Credits
the first picture of myself: Isaac Kau the second picture of my crew: Chris Luu the last picture of myself: Nicklas Beijer