30th BIFF Kicks Off with Lee Byung-hun's Latest Film, Marking His 30th Year in Acting

The 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has officially commenced, celebrating its milestone anniversary with a star-studded lineup. The festival, which began on the afternoon of October 17th at the Busan Cinema Center, was hosted by acclaimed actor Lee Byung-hun and will run until October 26th in the Haeundae district.

Opening the festival was 'Emergency Declaration' (working title), a new film directed by Park Chan-wook and starring Lee Byung-hun. This marks a significant moment for Lee, coinciding with his 30th year as an actor. "A small dream that started in Busan 30 years ago has now become a leading film festival in Asia," Lee remarked. "I also became a 30-year-old actor after filming my first movie in 1995. Thirty is a time to stand anew." Director Park Chan-wook expressed his honor, stating, "I can't believe it. I am truly honored."

The newly established 'Camellia Award,' recognizing cultural and artistic contributions by women filmmakers, was presented to Taiwanese actress and director Sylvia Chang. Director Chung Ji-young received the 'Korean Cinema Award,' expressing confidence in the future of Korean cinema, and Jafar Panahi, director of 'There Is No Evil,' was honored with the 'Asian Filmmaker of the Year' award.

This year's BIFF also introduces the 'Busan Award,' a new competitive section featuring 14 films vying for various accolades. The grand prize winner will be screened as the closing film, heralding a new chapter for the festival.

Lee Byung-hun made his acting debut in the 1991 KBS drama 'As Others Live'. His extensive filmography includes critically acclaimed and commercially successful films such as 'A Bittersweet Life', 'The Good, the Bad, the Weird', 'Masquerade', 'Inside Men', 'The Man Standing Next', and 'Concrete Utopia'. He has achieved international recognition for his versatile performances.