Busan Film Festival Director Jung Hanseok Talks Oscars Pathway, New Competition Section & Korean Cinema Recovery

This year marks a pivotal moment for South Korea’s Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which has advanced notably in global cinematic stature. The International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) recently added BIFF to its prestigious roster of "A-list" film festivals, aligning it with renowned events such as Cannes, Venice, and Berlin. This endorsement underscores BIFF's rising influence within the international film community.

Further elevating its profile, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced that winning the Best Film award at BIFF guarantees automatic eligibility for submission in the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. This strategic inclusion places BIFF among a select group of festivals worldwide that serve as direct conduits to one of cinema's highest honors, alongside Sundance and Toronto.

Jung Hanseok, who assumed the directorship of BIFF last year, notes that these developments have already enhanced both the volume and quality of festival submissions. The new incentives encourage filmmakers from across Asia to consider BIFF as a critical stepping stone toward broader recognition. Established only last year, BIFF's formal Competition section now features six awards, including Best Film—which has become the gateway to Oscar consideration—as well as accolades for directing, acting, and artistic contributions.

The Competition demonstrates a robust pan-Asian scope, with this year’s roster including 13 films from diverse countries such as China, Taiwan, Japan, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and Iran. Despite the recent withdrawal of a Chinese film due to production complications, the lineup remains strong and diverse. The Competition jury is chaired by the distinguished Chinese director Zhang Yimou, lending additional prestige to the adjudication process.

Jung emphasizes the festival’s commitment to celebrating Asian cinematic narratives grounded in regional perspectives. While the Competition is still in its infancy compared to longer-established global festivals, BIFF aims to solidify its reputation by maintaining rigorous selection standards focused on cinematic quality and relevance.

This year’s festival opened on October 6 with Kim Jong-kwan’s "The Table: Day And Night," accompanied by a host of notable attendees. Among them are celebrated figures like Michelle Yeoh, honored as Asian Filmmaker of the Year, and veteran filmmaker Ann Hui, recipient of the Camellia Award. Other international guests include Maggie Gyllenhaal, presenting her short film, and French actress Isabelle Huppert, who showcased her latest work.

BIFF's programming is expansive, featuring 246 films—the most since 2019—and an earlier start date to optimize audience access. Alongside the Competition and Vision sections, the festival highlights gala presentations, a curated Icons segment showcasing acclaimed global auteurs, and high-profile premieres of new series from major platforms such as Netflix and Disney. The festival’s Open Cinema offers free screenings at the Busan Cinema Center, further engaging the public.

Amid the festival's celebration of diverse cinema, BIFF also reflects the broader resurgence of Korean film domestically. After a challenging period marked by diminished box office returns and pandemic disruptions, Korean cinema has witnessed renewed audience interest. Recent domestic successes include historical dramas, thrillers, and horror films that have drawn viewers back to theaters. However, challenges persist, particularly for small and mid-budget productions seeking financing and theatrical exposure.

The festival also navigates complex cultural and political dynamics. For example, a politically charged Korean thriller had to scale back its promotional activities at BIFF due to controversy over historical accuracy. Nonetheless, the Directors Guild of Korea has publicly supported the film, illustrating ongoing debates within the national cinema landscape.

Looking ahead, BIFF is poised to strengthen its role as a vital platform for Asian filmmakers aiming for international acclaim. The festival’s integration into the Oscars qualifying circuit and its FIAPF recognition enhance its appeal and influence. As BIFF continues to expand and refine its offerings, it remains a key event for showcasing the rich, evolving tapestry of contemporary Asian cinema.

The 27th Busan International Film Festival runs through October 15 at multiple venues in Busan, complemented by the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) industry platform from October 10 to 13.