Director Lee Seo-jin is an emerging filmmaker with remarkable talent and an innovative vision, making a significant impression with his debut work. In 2023, he won the Gold Award at the 21st Korean Youth Film Awards (KYFA) with his short film <Retirement>, marking his first step into the Korean film industry. This award was a significant milestone that acknowledged his storytelling ability and artistic direction. The same film was selected as an official entry at the ARFF (Around International Film Festival) Berlin in 2023, where it earned an Honorable Mention in the Best Student Film category. This achievement marked the beginning of international recognition for Lee’s work, with his unique and emotionally resonant stories gaining empathy from audiences worldwide. Additionally, in 2024, Lee Seo-jin won a Bronze Award in the youth category at the 14th Chungmuro Short and Independent Film Festival, further solidifying his reputation in domestic film circles. (Chungmuro, often referred to as Korea’s "Hollywood," is a renowned hub for the country's film industry.) His works are praised for addressing deep societal issues with fresh perspectives and intricate handling of complex themes. His film also advanced to the finals at the Chennai World Cinema Festival 2024 in India, where it received positive reviews from audiences in theaters. Lee Seo-jin continues to create films with a unique perspective on the world. His 2024 short film <The Little Pufferfish> is a satirical black comedy known for its inventive storytelling. He is expected to continue making an impact at various film festivals, growing into a director with an important voice in contemporary cinema.