Venue

Opened in 2012, Sinyeong Theater is the only dedicated independent and art-house theater in Gangwon Province. It occupies the historic site of the former Sinyeong Theater, a landmark cinema that served the city since the 1960s before closing its doors. Now operated by the nonprofit Gangneung Cinematheque— organizers of the Jeongdongjin Independent Film Festival (JIFF) since 1999—the cinema has served as a vital link between film and the local community for over a decade.

The theater regularly screens Korean independent films and international art films, along with curated programs featuring classic directors such as Charlie Chaplin and Alfred Hitchcock. In addition to screenings, the cinema hosts talks, workshops, and small group events, offering film enthusiasts diverse ways to engage more deeply with cinema. Frequent guest sessions with directors (GVs) draw cinephiles from both Gangneung and other regions. The theater is equipped with a 4K digital projection system and 111 seats including accessible seating. Its lobby serves as a mini archive, offering vintage film magazines, books, and DVDs available for rental.

The Gangneung International Art Festival (GIAF) has partnered with the cinema in its recent editions to expand the city’s artistic landscape. At the second edition of the festival, the theater hosted Sandlines, the Story of History by Francis Alÿs, receiving acclaim for screening international art film in a professional cinematic setting. The Gangneung International Art Festival 2025 (GIAF25) presented Shapeshifters by Ho Tzu Nyen. Critics noted that the theater’s immersive projection setting amplified the impact of the film’s enigmatic themes—shapeshifting yokai, spies, and other mythical figures—which allowed them to resonate more deeply with the audience. For many, viewing these works in an iconic local cinema became a memorable part of the festival. With each collaboration, Sinyeong continues to grow as a key platform for presenting contemporary films and art in Gangneung.