The screenings are part of Georgia Tech’s annual Global Media Festival, which brings international stories into conversation with social, cultural, and ethical questions. The 2026 theme, Sustaining Empathy in a Fractured World, frames empathy as a skill to be practiced and maintained, particularly in moments of social, cultural, and emotional strain.

Songs of Love From Hawai‘i (US–South Korea, 2024) and Words of Wisdom from the Rainbow State (US–South Korea, 2021) explore how Korean immigrant communities in Hawai‘i have preserved cultural practices that promote care, resilience, and community cohesion. Through food, family traditions, and sustainable interactions with the land, these films show how empathy and shared responsibility contribute to enduring cultural identity.

The 2026 Global Media Festival features 11 events, including 10 international film screenings with post-screening conversations with directors, scholars, and special guests. This year also introduces an introductory directing workshop, offering students hands-on engagement in filmmaking and storytelling.

All screenings are free and open to the public. Each event is accompanied by national food offerings to foster informal discussion and community engagement.