The 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) concluded its landmark edition on Friday, drawing record-breaking crowds and solidifying its position as Asia's premier film showcase. The 10-day festival attracted more than 175,000 admissions across 328 official screenings, representing an increase of approximately 20,000 attendees from the previous year, according to organizers who announced the figures during a press conference at the Busan Cinema Center.
This milestone edition marked a significant evolution for the festival with the introduction of a new competition section that featured 14 outstanding Asian films. The winners of the inaugural Busan Awards were scheduled to be announced during the closing ceremony later in the day, adding a competitive element that festival organizers hope will enhance BIFF's standing in the international film community.
BIFF Director Jung Han-seok revealed during the press conference that deliberations among the seven jury members had been particularly intense. The jury was led by acclaimed South Korean director Na Hong-jin, known for his critically acclaimed films "The Chaser" and "The Wailing." Jung expressed satisfaction with the new competition format, stating, "I think we have taken the first step quite successfully. In aiming to build a more competitive platform for Asian cinema, we've also affirmed the festival's value to the industry."
The impact of the new competition section was already evident in its commercial success. According to festival organizers, two films that were included in the competition section secured international sales agents following the announcement of their participation. These films were Japanese director Daisuke Shigaya's "Leave the Cat Alone" and Sri Lankan filmmaker Vimukthi Jayasundara's "Spying Stars," demonstrating the section's immediate value to filmmakers seeking international distribution.
The festival attracted an impressive roster of globally recognized talent, further elevating its international profile. Distinguished guests included renowned Iranian director Jafar Panahi, who received the Asian Filmmaker of the Year Award, alongside Hollywood directors Guillermo del Toro and Sean Baker. The star-studded attendee list also featured internationally acclaimed actors including French actress Juliette Binoche, Hong Kong cinema legend Tony Leung Chiu-wai, action star Milla Jovovich, and Taiwanese actress Shu Qi.
In an effort to diversify its programming and offer unique perspectives on cinema, BIFF introduced an innovative new segment called Carte Blanche. This special session provided a platform for prominent cultural figures to share their favorite films with audiences. Notable participants included "Parasite" director Bong Joon-ho, the Oscar-winning filmmaker who has become one of South Korea's most internationally celebrated directors, and Maggie Kang, co-director of "KPop Demon Hunters."
The festival also marked the return of Forum BIFF after a three-year absence. This discussion platform offered industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations about the current state and future prospects of Asian cinema, addressing both artistic and commercial aspects of the regional film industry.
Looking ahead, Director Jung Han-seok emphasized the festival's commitment to continuous improvement and growth. "We are currently reviewing the festival's results so that we can make a fresh start next year, building on this year's performance," he explained, indicating that organizers are already planning enhancements for future editions based on the success and lessons learned from this milestone 30th anniversary celebration.
The closing ceremony was scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. and was set to be hosted by actress Claudia Kim, bringing the curtain down on what organizers and attendees alike considered a highly successful and transformative edition of one of Asia's most important film festivals.
