Exiles

2019 • 90 minutes

About this movie

Over 200,000 native English speakers are currently abroad teaching English, and more than 20,000 of which are in South Korea. The vast majority come alone, leaving friends and family behind on a separate continent, having packed their lives into a couple of suitcases, and knowing little to none of the local language. They move abroad for various reasons- wanderlust, employment, escape… Exiles follows a group of expatriates living in a small town in Korea. Shot over the course of two years, the film reveals the hardships of culture shock, the necessity of establishing relationships, and the joy of a self-determined life. Through interviews and insights into daily life, the foreigners share their unique outlook on Korean culture and the world, as well as navigating obstacles and a social life in an international community.

Ratings and reviews

A must watch an impressive documentary. Exiles is undoubtedly one of the best documentaries I ever watched. The documentary brings closer the Ups and Downs of a group of expatriates living in a small town in South Korea. The director has done great work in developing the shared life experiences by the expats, as each of them provides a unique and significant insight into expats life in South Korea. The film is smooth and profoundly connects to the audience.

Fantastic documentary for anyone who is considering living in Korea, interested in Korean, or perhaps curious about expat life. It is extremely powerful and moving.