Attendance Up by About 20,000 Compared to Last Year
Concerns Rise Over Reduced Government Support
The Busan International Film Festival concludes its ten-day run on September 26. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the festival introduced a new competition section and invited filmmakers from around the world, resulting in a significant increase in attendance compared to last year. At a closing press conference on this day, the organizing committee announced that 175,889 people had visited the festival. Chairman Park Kwangsoo stated, "This is an unexpected achievement, especially considering there were no public holidays during the festival," adding, "Including attendees at side events, the number increased by about 20,000 compared to last year."
The festival, which opened on September 17, screened 328 films across 31 screens at seven theaters. A total of 7,036 filmmakers from Korea and abroad attended the event. The festival hosted 323 guest visits (GVs) with audiences, 13 open talks, 19 outdoor stage greetings, and five master classes, all of which were well received.
This year, the newly established competition section featured fourteen Asian films. The winners in the five categories of the 'Busan Awards'-Grand Prize, Best Director, Jury Special Award, Best Actor, and Artistic Contribution-will be announced at the closing ceremony this afternoon. The ceremony will be hosted by actress Soo Hyun.
The competition jury was chaired by director Na Hongjin, with actress Han Hyojoo, actor Tony Leung, director Kogonada, and three others serving as judges. Executive Director Jung Hanseok commented, "The jury engaged in sincere and intense discussions throughout the process," and evaluated the first attempt as a success.
There were also tangible achievements. Director Sagaya Daisuke's "Let the Cat Go" and Vimukthi Jayasundara's "Spy Star" secured contracts with international sales companies. Executive Director Jung explained, "The goal of establishing an influential platform for Asian cinema has translated into real industrial results."
However, the reduction in government support is a cause for concern. Chairman Park pointed out, "While national funding accounted for 20% of the total budget in 2022, it has dropped to 4% this year," emphasizing, "Active government support is essential for the festival to grow into a world-class event." Chief Programmer Park Gaeun added, "A film festival is ultimately an event based on movies. The film industry must regain its vitality for the festival to grow alongside it."
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