Director Na Hong-jin Opens Up About Juggling High Expectations as Jury Chair at Busan International Film Festival

BUSAN, South Korea — Na Hong-jin, renowned for directing acclaimed films like “The Chaser” and “The Wailing,” expressed his mix of excitement and apprehension as he took on the role of jury chair for the inaugural competition section at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). Speaking at a press conference on September 18, Na revealed the weight of expectations resting on his shoulders. “I was so burdened that I really didn’t want to do it,” Na remarked, eliciting laughter from attendees as he reflected on how the pressure even caused him to panic during the … Read more

Na Hong-jin Embraces Challenge as First Jury President at Busan International Film Festival’s Inaugural Competition

BUSAN, South Korea — Director Na Hong-jin is taking on a significant role as the inaugural jury president for the new competition section at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). He expressed his commitment to the judging process during a press conference at the Busan Cinema Center on Thursday. Reflecting on his return to such a prestigious platform after nearly a decade away from directing, Na admitted that the experience felt overwhelming. “Being on that stage again felt like a panic attack,” he said. With a keen sense of responsibility, he acknowledged the pressure of … Read more

Busan International Film Festival Unveils Esteemed Jury for Inaugural Competition Section Led by Acclaimed Filmmaker Na Hongjin

Busan, South Korea — The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has revealed the jury for its inaugural competition section, which will be led by acclaimed Korean filmmaker Na Hong-jin. This new competitive platform is set to highlight exceptional talent in Asian cinema. Joining Na on the seven-member jury are Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Ka-fai, Indian actor and director Nandita Das, Iranian filmmaker Marziyeh Meshkiny, U.S.-based director Kogonada, Indonesian producer Yulia Evina Bhara, and South Korean actress Han Hyo-joo. The jury will award the esteemed Busan Awards in five categories, including Best Film, Best Director, … Read more

Nandita Das Joins Star-Studded Jury at Busan International Film Festival as Competition Heats Up

Busan, South Korea — Nandita Das, a renowned actor and filmmaker from India, has been appointed to the competition jury at the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which announced its lineup on Wednesday. The jury will be led by acclaimed Korean director Na Hong-Jin, known for his impactful contributions to contemporary cinema. This year, BIFF has introduced a new competition section along with the inaugural "Busan Award." The winners of these awards will be disclosed at the festival’s closing ceremony. Na Hong-Jin, serving as the jury president, is celebrated for his films such as … Read more