The Baby Dolphin Murder Case
Korea | Film 80min, TV 50min | 4K | Color
Logline
There is mother dolphin who can’t let go of her dead baby dolphin - This is an environment, investigative documentary, searching for the “Slow Violence” of Jeju island.
Synopsis
Director Oh Seung-mok, who has tracked Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins off Jeju for years, has repeatedly observed mothers carrying their dead calves. These mothers would bear their deceased offspring for roughly a month, making continuous revival attempts until decomposition made it impossible to carry them further. In the last year alone, he witnessed twelve such deaths. Veterinarians are now investigating to uncover the cause of this "slow violence," which is invisibly but steadily killing young dolphins.
Director's Statement
There are victims and witnesses, however the perpetrator and motive for crime can’t be revealed. Recent ‘Baby dolphins serial killing cases’ happened in Jeju island, are close to ‘Perfect crime’. In the past year, 12 baby dolphins are dead. We, human being, witnessed mother dolphin who can’t let go of the baby dolphin, holding him/her in her beak.
Director IM Wanho
Director IM Wan-ho, a native of Jeju, has spent over 30 years producing nature documentaries, showcasing the wonders of the wild and the preciousness of nature. In 2024, he also received the Arts Award in the TV category at the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards for his exceptional cinematography and insight.
Producer LEE Mijin
Mijin has been working as a producer/director since 1997. She has been producing Mr. Taylor's House, Old Marine Boy, A girl and a shipwreck, Boys and bows. Boys on the hill>was screened at DMZ Docs in 2024.