Netflix’s first-ever Korean original animated film, Lost in Starlight, premieres May 30.

Netflix has recently unveiled the trailer for its inaugural Korean animated film, *Lost in Starlight*, set to premiere on May 30. This film captures the essence of contemporary Korean storytelling, intertwining elements of romance and science fiction. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic Seoul set in 2050, focusing on the relationship between Nan-young, an astronaut keen to explore Mars, and Jay, a musician engrossed in restoring retro sound equipment. Their love story evolves as they confront the inevitability of distance when Nan-young receives an opportunity for a Mars expedition, posing challenges that challenge the sustainability of their connection. This project's timing is significant, coinciding with a surge in the popularity of Korean animation. Recently, another Korean film, *King of Kings*, surpassed *Parasite* to become the highest-grossing Korean film in North America, showcasing the growing global impact of Korean cinema. Additionally, the Korean government's plan to invest over $1 billion in its animation industry over the next five years suggests a promising future for both domestic and international animated projects. Directed by Han Ji-won, *Lost in Starlight* is already gaining praise from industry giants, with Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho dubbing it a 'visual masterpiece' that transports viewers through the universe. The film's artistic approach echoes the nostalgia of retro-cyberpunk aesthetics, featuring familiar landmarks of Seoul such as Sewoon Plaza, all while highlighting the emotional journey of young love amid aspiring dreams. The choice of Kim Tae-ri, known for *The Handmaiden*, and Hong Kyung, recognized for his work in *Revenant*, as voice stars, further adds to the film's credibility and appeal. Critics have drawn parallels between *Lost in Starlight* and acclaimed films like *Your Name*, highlighting its aim to fill a void in the anime landscape that has yet to meet the profound emotional resonance achieved by Shinkai's masterpiece. The blurred lines between anime and Korean animation are becoming increasingly relevant. Despite nuanced distinctions, projects like *Lost in Starlight* underscore South Korea's burgeoning role in the animation sector, promising a flourishing future that could redefine global animation norms. As the teaser and accompanying visuals set a high bar for visual storytelling and emotional depth, the anticipation builds for this release. *Lost in Starlight* embodies a broader movement towards acknowledging animation as a serious and viable storytelling medium outside of traditional boundaries, promising viewers a unique experience that combines many elements of contemporary pop culture and artistic expression.