Sugino Kiki, a multitalented individual of Korean descent born to parents in Hiroshima, Japan, on March 12, 1984, is a renowned figure in Asian indie cinema. Her Hangul name is Yeong-Hwa Seo, and she pursued economics at Keio University in Tokyo before embarking on a journey to South Korea at the age of 21.
During her third year at university, Sugino appeared in a minor film, Nunbushin Haru, and experimented with singing. She had discovered the audition opportunity coincidentally and landed the role despite not speaking the native language of her ancestors. This marked the beginning of her foray into the world of filmmaking.
In 2009, Sugino was set to co-produce a film with Malaysian director Yasmin Ahmad, but the project was put on hold due to Ahmad's untimely passing. However, she continued to push forward, co-producing and acting in the 2010 comedic film Hospitalité, which earned her widespread recognition.
Her breakthrough performance as a duplicitous and attractive character in Hospitalité showcased her versatility as an actress. The film won a sectional prize in Japan and was screened at various international festivals, including the Tokyo International Film Festival. In 2011, Sugino was honored with a special section at the festival, titled "Sugino Kiki: Muse Of The Asian Indie Cinema."
Since then, Sugino has continued to act, write, direct, and produce films, including Au Revoir L'Ete, in which she reprised her role as a duplicitous character. She has also ventured into music, singing a song for a movie. Sugino's dedication to her craft has earned her a reputation as a darling of independent cinema, but she is determined to break free from this label and explore new horizons.
In 2016, Sugino's film Snow Woman, a remake of Lafcadio Hearn's classic tale Kaidan, premiered at the Tokyo International Film Festival. The film is a testament to her growth as a filmmaker and her ability to adapt and reinvent herself.
Sugino's influences include renowned Japanese directors Kenji Mizoguchi and Yasuzo Masumura, who have inspired her to push boundaries and create unique, innovative films. Her upcoming projects include a science fiction and musical movie, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented artist.
Tragically, Sugino suffered a life-altering accident in 2015 when she was struck by a taxi in Rotterdam, Netherlands, while attending the International Film Festival Rotterdam. The incident left her with broken legs and a hip, requiring her to be off her feet for a year. Despite this setback, Sugino remains committed to her craft, driven by her passion for storytelling and her determination to make a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
