Deep Dive: Sewing Sisters (2022)
Film Lens
Sewing Sisters focuses on the experiences of girls aged 12 to 16 who worked at Pyeonghwa Market in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Under the guidance of Jeon Taeil, they operated sewing machines while learning about the Labor Standards Act. The film captures their struggles and activism, particularly the significant event on September 9, 1977, when they were imprisoned for protesting the government's closure of labor classes, declaring, 'The next Jeon Taeil will be a woman.' This moment marks a pivotal point in the history of female labor activism in Korea.
The documentary features recollections from these now middle-aged women, reflecting on their past as female workers facing social contempt and stigma. Through news interviews with members of the Cheonggye Clothes Union, Sewing Sisters rewrites the narrative of labor struggles in 1970s Korea, emphasizing the contributions and challenges faced by women in a male-dominated workforce. The film also captures their admiration for the sunrise over the East Sea, symbolizing hope and equality.
Why Watch
- •Meet the brave girls of Pyeonghwa Market.
- •Find out about Jeon Taeil's influence on young workers.
- •See the impact of the Cheonggye Clothes Union.
Did You Know
•Girls aged 12 to 16 worked at Pyeonghwa Market in the late 1960s.
•On September 9, 1977, these girls were imprisoned for protesting.
•Jeon Taeil taught them about the Labor Standards Act.
•The girls shouted, 'The next Jeon Taeil will be a woman!' during protests.
Perfect For
Labor rights historyKorean women's activism1970s social movements