D-Day -1 is an installation and photographic series that revisits my experience as a military photographer in the Republic of Korea Air Force from 2019 to 2021. This sequence navigates the journey of soldiers transitioning from military roles to civilian life, highlighting individual narratives in a context where the unresolved Korean War leaves them isolated from the wider world.
The title, "D-Day -1," encapsulates the critical moments just before soldiers return to civilian society after completing their mandatory service, a time characterized by significant personal transformation. The project is a tapestry of portraits, handwritten stories, and unguarded images that collectively portray the array of challenges soldiers face. The portrait provides a direct view into the life of military service, whereas the handwritten elements reveal the soldiers' deeper reflections and emotions, crystallized over time, adding depth and intimacy to the visual storytelling.