A Honiton resident has been awarded a scholarship to study directing at MetFilm School in London this autumn.

Hyunju Lee said she was in ‘shock’ when she had discovered she had been awarded the diploma.

She said: ““It was an extremely surreal experience. I remember I kept saying ‘thank you’, over and over, like a scratched record.

The MetFilm School is based in Ealing Studios in London and they award one full scholarship every year in partnership with Viacom’s MTV Staying Alive Foundation awards.

Hyuniu said: “I knew MetFilm School was one of the most well-respected in the UK so when I learnt that they awarded a full scholarship to a chosen student, there was no way I could walk away from it.

“I was aware the competition would be extremely fierce but I had to try because I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t.”

Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Lee started writing and directing while studying filmmaking at the Korea National University of Arts.

She was the first person in her family to go to university and said: “My house did not have a bathroom or hot water and at night I was often scared to go to the public bathroom in the dark. I was very lucky to be able to go to university and study film in Korea and it was only possible because I had a government scholarship that covered my tuition fees.

“Ever since I was very little, I was drawn to stories and I grew up surrounded by them. One of my earliest memories was listening to audiobooks with my sister whilst my mum was cooking.

“Even today, I can vividly recall the stories and how they were told because I listened to them over and over again. As soon as I was able to read, reading became my favourite activity.

“I was around 15 years-old when I really discovered film and TV. I was so obsessed with the medium that I accidentally learnt English through all the shows and movies I watched.

“I believe I have unique and fresh stories that can deeply connect with people who struggled as I did.

“I became who I am now because I could take shelter in stories when reality was difficult. I would consider myself successful if my stories were able to help others push through difficult times, just as they did for me.”