When filmmaker Rahhat Shah Kazmi arrived in Seoul for the premiere of Love in Vietnam, he expected excitement. What he didn’t expect was a cultural moment that would move an entire audience to tears and ultimately make history. The sold-out screening quickly transformed into something unforgettable as Korean viewers connected deeply with the film’s emotional storytelling. Many were seen wiping their eyes, and a respected Korean director later declared that the film “felt like a Hollywood drama crafted with Asia’s heart and soul.” For Kazmi, the experience was overwhelming, a moment he described as one he would cherish forever.
Days after this emotional premiere, Love in Vietnam achieved a groundbreaking milestone at the Seoul Global Movie Awards 2025. The film won Best Film of Asia, while Rahhat Shah Kazmi was honoured with Best Director of Asia—making it the first time in history that an Indian film and an Indian filmmaker have won both major awards in Korea at this prestigious ceremony, presented by the Korean Film Actors Association with the Seoul Metropolitan Government. Kazmi’s acceptance was heartfelt and humble, dedicating the win to every Indian storyteller who believes their stories can cross borders and touch hearts around the world.
The premiere night was filled with energy, emotion, and stardom. Shantanu Maheshwari instantly became a fan favourite, surrounded by Korean admirers eager for selfies, autographs and spontaneous dance clips. His charm won over the crowd, with many fans describing him as a “K-drama hero, but Indian.” Korean singer Seiya, who performed one of the film’s key tracks, was moved to tears while watching the film and expressed her desire to sing more for Indian cinema, further highlighting the emotional resonance the film created across cultures.
Love in Vietnam itself is a celebration of global collaboration. Produced by Rahhat Shah Kazmi, Captain Rahul Bali, Omung Kumar, Sarvesh Goel, Tariq Khan, Zeba Sajid, Mohammad Antulay, Sahil Sheikh and Pankaj Singh Chauhan, with Samten Hills Dalat as co-producer and support from Vikas Sharma, Kritika Rampal and Devansh Bhardwaj, the film brings together teams from India, Vietnam and Korea. Backed by Faar East Distilleries, Furama Resort Danang, Vietnam Airlines and Sun Group Vietnam, the production showcases Vietnam’s most breathtaking locations—from Furama Danang and Ba Na Hills to Phu Quoc and Samten Hills Dalat—creating visuals as stunning as a travel magazine spread.
The impact of Love in Vietnam goes far beyond awards and applause. Its success represents a new era of Indo–Korean cultural exchange, proving that storytelling can dissolve borders and emotions can unite nations. Kazmi didn’t just win awards—he sparked a conversation, built a bridge between audiences, and set a new benchmark for Indian filmmakers on the world stage. As global anticipation builds for the film’s wider release, one thing is clear: Rahhat Shah Kazmi has captured Korea’s heart, and the world is paying attention.
