Movie director Kim Ki-duk will appear on three different variety shows after a prolonged absence from the public eye.

Kim, who has directed 18 films, will appear on KBS talk show “Do Dream,” SBS variety show “Strong Heart,” and tvN talk show “Baek Ji-yeon’s People Inside” sometime this week or the following week. The dates have not been finalized by the broadcasters.

Kim appeared in front of the public for the first time in four years on July 20 to promote his new movie “Pieta.” NEW, a content distribution company that now handles marketing and distribution of “Pieta,” said that Kim’s decision to appear on talk shows reflects his determination to publicize the new film. 

“Pieta” is listed among the competition line- up for the 69th Venice Film Festival, where it will make its world premiere. The film will be released in Korea on Sept. 6.

Kim disappeared from the film scene after the release of “Dream” (2008), which was directed by his former assistant director Jang Hoon. Following the film’s success, he got into a legal battle with the company handling distribution of “Dream” and ended his relationship with Jang, a former “disciple” of Kim.

The controversial director made a successful comeback with “Arirang” (2011) at Cannes International Film Festival, taking home the top prize in “Un Certain Regard” section.

His latest movie “Pieta” is about a devilish man who makes a living by beating up debtors to pay back his clients. The film unfolds as a strange woman appears in front of him and claims to be his mother ― although the man has been living by himself without any familial ties. Actor Lee Jung-jin and actress Jo Min-soo co-star in the movie.

By Jennifer Ryu, Intern reporter
(ryu_jenn@hotmail.com)