About
Supported by DMZ International Documentary Film Festival, a group of professors from cinema school in Asia (including Korea, Japan, Taiwan, China, Singapore, Thailand……) launched “Asia Documentary Co-Production Network” since 2015. It is a collaborative project where students from different countries mix, organize teams & work together over two years to co-produce documentaries about Asia.
Mission
Our mission is to redefine documentary filmmaking by embracing methodological de-nationalism, challenging traditional boundaries in both content and production. We seek to explore multi-, cross-, inter-, and trans-border perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and interconnected approach to storytelling. Through co-production, we aim to discover innovative creative styles and aesthetics that emerge from collaboration. At the core of our vision is a critical reexamination of what it means to be Asian, Asian, or embody Asianness, encouraging deeper dialogue and new ways of seeing Asia beyond conventional narratives.
Vision
The Asian Docs Co-production Network Project envisions documentary filmmaking as a catalyst for cross-cultural dialogue, creative collaboration, and social transformation across Asia. By bringing together emerging filmmakers and scholars, we foster an inclusive network that embraces cultural diversity, nuances, and contradictions, believing that storytelling can inspire critical thinking and deepen empathy.
Supported by the DMZ International Documentary Film Festival, we are committed to empowering the next generation of documentary filmmakers through mentorship, co-production, and international exposure. Looking ahead, we aim to expand our partnerships with other international film festivals to further showcase our films and amplify voices that reflect Asia’s evolving social and cultural landscapes.
How it works
1
Team Formation & Co-Production Approach
Both students and faculty members collaborate to form teams, with each film having an average of 3-5 young creators and 2-3 mentors assigned to guide the process.
The team composition follows a unique co-production model that differs from conventional film production structures based on a division of duties.
Instead, co-production in this project is an immersive educational process where all team members actively take on multiple roles—producer, director, cinematographer, editor, and more—collaborating throughout all stages of production, from planning and filming to post-production and screening. Through this hands-on approach, participants develop essential skills in sharing responsibilities, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and creative collaboration, fostering a deeper understanding of the collective filmmaking process.
2
Research & Pre-Production (First Year)
Once teams are established, they develop a core theme or subject for their 20-25 minute documentary film. The first year is dedicated to in-depth research and pre-production to lay the foundation for the actual shoot in the following year.
In September of the first year, during the DMZ International Documentary Film Festival, each team presents their documentary concept and pre-production plan in a public pitch session. This pitch allows teams to receive valuable feedback from faculty mentors, industry professionals, and festival audiences.
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To support the development process, bi-monthly faculty lectures, online/offline workshops, and mentorship sessions are scheduled, providing young filmmakers with essential knowledge and guidance.
3
Production & Premiere (Second Year)
The second year is dedicated to film production, post-production, and final completion. Teams shoot and edit their documentaries, applying the insights gained during the research and pre-production phase.
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The completed films premiere in September of the second year during the DMZ International Documentary Film Festival (2026 for this season).
Throughout the production process, students continue to engage in collective learning opportunities through regular lectures and workshops, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience from story development to final screening.
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This structured yet flexible approach ensures that young filmmakers not only create compelling documentaries but also develop a deep understanding of the collaborative and educational aspects of transnational co-production.