Han Sang-jun Appointed as New Chairman of Yeongjinwi... Will He Save the Film Industry in Crisis?

Challenges to Overcome... Widespread Distrust in the Film Industry
"Listening to Diverse Voices... Guiding Stable Development"

Han Sang-jun, former executive chairman of the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, has been appointed as the head of the Korean Film Council.

On the 4th, the Korean Film Council elected Han as the new chairman at its 9th extraordinary meeting. The council consists of nine members, including the chairman. One of the members is elected as the chairman. The term of office for a member is three years. Han, who was appointed as a member on the 24th of last month, will serve until May 23, 2027.

Chairman Han is a film professional who served as a programmer for the Busan International Film Festival (2000?2002) and as executive chairman of the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (2007?2009). His publications include Understanding Film Music (2017). He stated, "I will listen to the diverse voices of the film industry to make the Korean Film Council a cooperative and trusted organization," adding, "I will strive to respond effectively to changes in the film industry and to ensure the stable development of K-movie."

There are many challenges to be addressed. Since the resignation of former chairman Park Ki-yong in January, the Korean Film Council has been adrift without a leader. Although a new leadership team has finally been formed, the entire film industry is experiencing a severe downturn. Support such as film festival funding has been halved, causing continuous dissatisfaction within the film community.

Concerns are also growing about whether the Film Development Fund, the source of funding, can function properly. This is due to the government’s recent announcement to abolish the admission fee surcharge for movie theaters. Although the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism explained that it plans to operate the Film Development Fund stably with government budget support, concerns in the film industry persist.