Sinner (Korean: 자필) is an upcoming South Korean drama film written and directed by Hong Sung-min for his feature film directorial debut. The film follows Kim Seok-gyu, a Minister of Justice nominee preparing for his confirmation hearing, as he reveals the truth behind a former criminal case through letters penned by Hong Sun-hwa, South Korea's last death row inmate. It will have its world premiere at the 31st Busan International Film Festival on October 7, 2026, as part of the Korean Cinema Today - Panorama section.
Synopsis When prosecutor Kim Seok-gyu is nominated for Minister of Justice, the opposition party raises questions about the 1994 "Migeum Arson-Murder Case." They allege that he conducted a coercive investigation against the illiterate suspect Hong Sun-hwa and sought the death penalty. The controversy subsides when a letter left by Hong comes to light. However, after reading her plea for her innocence to be conveyed to her son Eun-su, Seok-gyu begins to reinvestigate the closed case.
Cast Jung Sung-il as Kim Seok-gyu Park Ji-hyun as Hong Sun-hwa Lee Jun-young
Production Filming concluded on August 26, 2025.
The film was included in the 2026 Cannes Film Market lineup.
Release Sinner is set to premiere as part of the Korean Cinema Today - Panorama section at the 31st Busan International Film Festival on October 7, 2026.
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