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Little Pyongyang: A North Korean in New Malden

Short Films
2018
24 min
Directed by Roxy Rezvany

The leafy suburb of New Malden in south London is home to Europe's biggest North Korean population. This stylised documentary tells the tale of one North Korean's struggle to leave behind the homeland, unveiling he depths of loss and longing.

With exclusive access to one of the world's largest community on North Korean defectors, the film focuses on Joong-wha Choi, a former soldier in the DPRK who today lives with his wife and kids and works in a warehouse on the A3 motorway. But, despite enjoying the new found comforts of his British life, and being emancipated from the pressures of the North Korean state, his dilemma lies in a desire to return to the land that betrayed him yet is undoubtedly his true home.

At a time when the world is wrapped up in the exchanges of pomp and bravado between two theatrical but powerful world leaders, the documentary recognises the North Korean defectors on Britain's doorstep, and follows Joong-wha as he considers his mission to seek change for North Korea.

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Little Pyongyang: A North Korean in New Malden

Short Films
2018
24 min
Directed by Roxy Rezvany

The leafy suburb of New Malden in south London is home to Europe's biggest North Korean population. This stylised documentary tells the tale of one North Korean's struggle to leave behind the homeland, unveiling he depths of loss and longing.

With exclusive access to one of the world's largest community on North Korean defectors, the film focuses on Joong-wha Choi, a former soldier in the DPRK who today lives with his wife and kids and works in a warehouse on the A3 motorway. But, despite enjoying the new found comforts of his British life, and being emancipated from the pressures of the North Korean state, his dilemma lies in a desire to return to the land that betrayed him yet is undoubtedly his true home.

At a time when the world is wrapped up in the exchanges of pomp and bravado between two theatrical but powerful world leaders, the documentary recognises the North Korean defectors on Britain's doorstep, and follows Joong-wha as he considers his mission to seek change for North Korea.

Boiler Room

  • About
  • Editorial
  • SoundCloud
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Boiler Room

  • About
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  • SoundCloud
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
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Boiler Room

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    TikTok
  • Facebook
  • Apple Music
  • Projects

    • Broadcast Lab
    • Energy

    Information

    • Brand Partnerships
    • Accessibility
    • Support
    • Careers
    • Privacy Notice
    • Cookie Notice
    • Website Terms Of Use
    • Open Dance Floor Policy
    • Purchase Terms & Conditions
    © 2026 BOILER ROOM

    Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on film screenings and residencies.

    You can opt out anytime. We will treat your information with respect. For more information about our privacy practices please read Boiler Room's Privacy Notice. By clicking above, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.