Korean filmmaker, Park Chan-wook, known for films like Oldboy and The Handmaiden, was recently expelled from the Writers Guild of America (WGA) for working during the union’s strike back in 2023. Canadian writer and director Don McKellar was also expelled
Park Chan-wook
Acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook has recently been officially expelled from the Writers Guild of America (WGA). The reason for him being thrown out is him being actively working during the union’s strike in 2023. The decision of his expulsion was announced by the WGA on Friday. Along with Park, Canadian writer and director Don McKellar was also expelled from the union.
Park Chan-wook ousted from Writers Guild of America
According to reports, Park and McKellar were both involved in the HBO miniseries The Sympathizer, which was telecast in 2024. It was a seven-part series, based on the award-winning novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen, and starred Hoa Xuande and Robert Downey Jr. While announcing the expulsion, WGA pointed out that the two men continued writing for the show during the strike, thus they broke the guild’s rules. Notably, neither Park nor McKellar has appealed the decision.
Park is best known globally for helming powerful films such as Oldboy (2003) and The Handmaiden (2016). The 61-year-old is often considered one of South Korea’s most influential directors. His next film, titled No Other Choice, is all set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival later this month.
On the other hand, McKellar is known for his work in Canadian cinema. He shared writing credits on the film alongside Park and others.
About the WGA Strike
The Writers Guild was on strike in 2023 to improve working conditions, pay, and rights for writers in film and television. During the strike, the members of the union were expected not to take on any writing work. The WGA was strict about enforcing these rules, and with Park’s expulsion, the union has sent out a clear and loud message.
Along with Park and McKellar, the WGA has also suspended another writer, Anthony Cipriano, until 2026 for a similar violation. Cipriano was also reportedly banned from serving in leadership roles within the guild. Although Park is not based in the United States, his expulsion from the WGA is likely to affect future projects he has signed with American studios. However, his film No Other Choice will premiere as scheduled while he continues to enjoy global interest for his work. Meanwhile, the long-term impact on his career because of the expulsion remains to be seen.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
