Kim Ki-duk (December 20, 1960 – December 11, 2020) was a prolific South Korean filmmaker known for his distinct and often controversial arthouse dramas. His films, such as “The Isle” (2000) and “Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter… and Spring” (2003), delve into the darker aspects of human nature, often employing shocking visuals and unconventional narratives to explore themes of alienation, violence, and redemption. He gained international recognition with films like “Samaritan Girl” (2004) and “3-Iron” (2004), which garnered awards at prestigious festivals like Cannes and Venice. His later work, including “Pieta” (2012), continued to challenge audiences and solidify his position as a leading figure in Korean cinema.