The documentary Home Ground explores the history of the lesbian community, spanning from the famous Chanel Tearoom in Myeongdong in the 1970s to Sinchon Park in the early 2000s and LesVos in Itaewon today. The camera starts by following the daily life of Myuongwoo, the caretaker of LesVos, then moves through various queer spaces, including the notable figure Kokji from Chanel Tearoom, to capture the lives of those who have passed through such spaces and the stories of all individuals fighting for the lives and support of sexual minorities.
These places provide a sense of acceptance in a society that may not welcome them, constantly reminding them that they are not abnormal, addressing them as bros instead of aunties, and being there to share the pain of someone’s loss. Home Ground goes beyond being just places that serve drinks and snacks; it is a documentary that makes us consider how preserving spaces like Lesbos, the home ground for sexual minorities, has supported and sustained the lives of many. Maintaining such areas may be like a thread constantly connecting individuals to society, a helping hand to prevent isolation, and an ongoing effort to preserve intangible histories that might not otherwise be recorded. [LEE Seona, Cinefemme]