The 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has selected director CHUNG Jiyoung as the recipient of the Korean Cinema Award. The Award is presented to filmmakers who have made significant contributions to the development of Korean cinema and will be conferred at the Opening Ceremony on September 17.

Unwavering Gaze toward Truth

Undisputable Master of Korean Cinema

Chung Jiyoung made his debut with Mist Whispers Like Women (1982) and has earned acclaim from both critics and audiences over the past four decades, with his films capturing the dark side of Korean society and exploring generational trauma. His most notable works include North Korean Partisan in South Korea (1990), White Badge (1992), Life of Hollywood Kid (1994), Unbowed (2011), National Security (2012), Black Money (2019), and The Boys (2020), tackling weighty themes such as social conflicts, human rights, and justice.

In addition to his directorial achievements, Chung has made significant contributions to the advancement of Korean cinema and the nurturing of emerging filmmakers. He has served as an Honorary Chairperson of the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival and as a jury member for the Asiana International Short Film Festival and the Jecheon International Music & Film Festival. The director has also spearheaded efforts to improve the film industry’s structure, advocating for the protection of the screen quota system, the abolition of censorship, the dismantling of screen monopolies by major conglomerates, and championing the rights and diversity of Korean cinema.

“Director Chung Jiyoung has been an exceptional filmmaker for decades and continues to prepare new work as one of the most enduring practitioners. Above all, his life and films are deeply intertwined with Korean history and cinema. I am pleased to dedicate the Korean Cinema Award to director Chung, a truly respected filmmaker, at the 30th Busan International Film Festival.” said Festival Director Jung Hanseok.

In his acceptance speech, the director stated, “I have been making films through the dark days and golden age of Korean cinema, and now face yet another era of challenges. This award is given on behalf of all my fellow Korean film industry colleagues who have weathered these periods together”. He added, “I also want to express my gratitude to my wife, who passed away last year”.

The 30th Busan International Film Festival will be held for 10 days from September 17 (Wed) to 26 (Fri) around the Busan Cinema Centre.

■ The 30th Busan International Film Festival: Sep 17 (Wed) – Sep 26 (Fri)

■ The 20th Asian Contents & Film Market: Sep 20 (Sat) – Sep 23 (Tue)