Busan at 30: Jung Hanseok Charts Ambitious Course for Festival's Future

Busan at 30: A New Chapter Unfolds As the sun set over the bustling streets of Busan, South Korea's largest port city, director Jung Hanseok stood on stage, flanked by the festival's esteemed guests and industry professionals. The air was electric with anticipation as he announced the launch of the Busan International Film Festival's (BIFF) first-ever Competition section – a bold new chapter in the festival's 30-year history. For Jung, this milestone edition represents more than just a celebration of past achievements; it marks the beginning of a transformative journey for one of Asia's most influential film festivals. As he takes the reins as BIFF's director, Jung is determined to shake things up and propel Busan into a new era of cinematic excellence. "I didn't want this year to be about nostalgia or congratulations," Jung tells me in an exclusive interview. "I wanted it to be about the very beginning of something new – a new chapter for our festival, and for Korean cinema as a whole." As we sit down with Jung in his office, surrounded by posters and memorabilia from past BIFF editions, he reflects on the festival's evolution over the years. From its humble beginnings in 1996 to its current status as a premier platform for Asian filmmakers, BIFF has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged audiences. "This year is not just about celebrating our 30th anniversary," Jung emphasizes. "It's about taking stock of where we are today and charting a course for the future – one that is more inclusive, innovative, and forward-thinking." The Competition section, which debuted with Park Chan-wook's thought-provoking No Other Choice, marks a significant departure from BIFF's traditional programming. By introducing an international competition format, Jung aims to attract top talent from around the world and create a platform for Asian filmmakers to compete on equal footing with their global counterparts. "We're not just competing with other festivals; we're competing with the best of the best," Jung explains. "We want to show that Korean cinema is not just about K-pop or K-drama – it's about bold storytelling, innovative filmmaking, and a unique perspective on the world." As BIFF continues to grow in stature, its impact extends far beyond the festival itself. For many young filmmakers from across Asia, Busan has become a launching pad for their careers, providing a platform to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. "I remember attending my first BIFF as a student," says Kim Hyun-ju, a rising star in Korean cinema. "It was like a dream come true – I met so many talented people, saw incredible films, and felt inspired to pursue my passion for filmmaking." For Jung, the success of BIFF is not just about numbers or awards; it's about creating a community that celebrates diversity, creativity, and innovation. "Our festival is not just about showcasing Korean cinema; it's about celebrating Asian culture and perspectives," he says. "We want to create a space where filmmakers from across the continent can come together, share their stories, and inspire each other." As we conclude our conversation with Jung, I'm struck by his infectious enthusiasm and commitment to BIFF's mission. As the festival enters its 30th year, it's clear that this is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter – one that promises to propel Busan into a brighter, bolder future. "Busan at 30 is not just about celebrating our past; it's about embracing our future," Jung concludes with a smile. "We're not just looking back; we're looking forward – and I'm excited to see where this journey takes us." *Based on reporting by Variety.*