Director Kim Ki-duk's “Pieta” has been chosen to represent South Korea in the Foreign Language Film section at the 85th Academy Awards.

The Korean Film Commission said it selected “Pieta” based on its "authetic audaciousness" and the reputation of its director, among other factors.

Previous Oscar submissions from South Korea were “Mother” in 2009, “A Barefoot Dream” in 2010 and “The Front Line” in 2011. However, none made it to the final round of nominations.

“Pieta” won the best film award at this year's Venice International Flim Festival, drawing attention to whether it will become the first South Korean film to win an Academy Award.