2025 CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy

The Beginning of a New Journey!

24 Emerging Filmmakers from 17 Countries

Embark on a 20-Day Journey!

[A group photo of fellows at the opening ceremony of 2025 CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy on September 7 (Sun)]

CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy (BAFA), Asia’s leading platform for film education, launched a new chapter with its opening ceremony on September 7 (Sun) at Oase Busan. Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) chairperson Park Kwang Su, directing mentor Mattie Do, cinematography mentor Park Junghun, alongside BIFF officials and alumni joined 24 selected fellows to mark their beginning of the journey. It embarked on a 20-day curriculum with 24 next generation filmmakers from 17 different countries. Including the two fellows from Korea, this year’s cohort is comprised of a considerably higher female proportion. It also brings together a broader mix of genders and cultural backgrounds, fostering multifaceted perspectives and fresh interpretations. With a record of the highest acceptance rate of 1 of 26, having 625 applications from 40 countries, it underlines its stature as a hub of cross-cultural exchange and creative collaboration.

Since its launch in 2005, BAFA has nurtured 430 emerging filmmakers from 35 countries with global vision and artistry. Reinvigorated by its partnership with Chanel in 2022, it has expanded its reach by offering innovative learning environments and broader networking opportunities. It remains as a springboard for Asia’s future filmmakers stepping onto the global stage.

Gathered under a shared passion for cinema, 2025 CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy takes place from September 7 (Sun) to 26 (Fri). A special screening of eight short titles by the fellows will be presented during the 30th BIFF on September 25 (Thurs) 19:00 at Busan Cinema Center. Also, two outstanding fellows will be awarded with the CHANEL X BAFA Promising Filmmaker Award, each receiving a cash prize of USD 5,000.