▲ BIFF Director Jung Han-seok speaks at a press conference at the Busan Cinema Center on Sept. 26, 2025. (Yonhap)
▲ Director Bong Joon-ho (C, stage) speaks during the Carte Blanche session at Lotte Cinema in Haeundae, Busan, on Sept. 23, 2025. (Yonhap)

BIFF-closing

BIFF wraps up, celebrating 30 years with star-studded guests, new programs

By Woo Jae-yeon

SEOUL/BUSAN, Sept. 26 (Yonhap) -- Coming to a close Friday, the landmark 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) drew significant crowds over its 10-day run, cementing its status as Asia's most influential film showcase.

The festival attracted more than 175,000 admissions across 328 official screenings, an increase of approximately 20,000 from the previous year, according to BIFF's organizers during a press conference held at the Busan Cinema Center.

This milestone edition was particularly significant for introducing a new competition section that showcased 14 outstanding Asian films. The winners of the inaugural Busan Awards will be announced during the closing ceremony later in the day.

At the press conference, BIFF Director Jung Han-seok said the internal discussions among the seven jury members, led by director Na Hong-jin of "The Chaser" and "The Wailing," had been "fierce."

"I think we have taken the first step quite successfully," he said of the inaugural competition section. "In aiming to build a more competitive platform for Asian cinema, we've also affirmed the festival's value to the industry."

According to organizers, two films -- Daisuke Shigaya's "Leave the Cat Alone" and Vimukthi Jayasundara's "Spying Stars" -- secured international sales agents after their inclusion in the competition section was announced.

"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 added.

Globally acclaimed directors, actors and industry figures have attended the festival, helping elevate the annual event's profile. Distinguished guests this year included directors Jafar Panahi, recipient of the Asian Filmmaker of the Year Award; Guillermo Del Toro; and Sean Baker. Actors in attendance included Juliette Binoche, Tony Leung, Milla Jovovich, Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Shu Qi.

To diversify its programming, BIFF introduced Carte Blanche, a session where cultural figures, including "Parasite" director Bong Joon-ho and "KPop Demon Hunters" co-director Maggie Kang, share their favorite movies. In addition, Forum BIFF returned after a three-year hiatus, offering discussion sessions about the present and future of Asian cinema.

The closing ceremony is set for 6 p.m. and will be hosted by actress Claudia Kim.

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