Essential Guide to the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF 2025)

The 30th edition of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) commenced its 10-day showcase from September 17 through the 26th. Marking a milestone 30th anniversary, this year's festival introduces several exciting new changes and offers film enthusiasts a richer, more diverse program than ever before.

Celebrating 30 Years: BIFF Returns Bigger and Better

Record Number of Films and Expanded Global Participation

The 30th BIFF features an impressive lineup of 241 official selections representing 64 countries. Including the Community BIFF segment, the total screening count reaches 328 films—an increase of 17 titles from last year—underscoring a significantly expanded and enriched program in celebration of the anniversary.

A Landmark Shift after Three Decades: Introduction of a Competition Section

Perhaps the most noteworthy development is the festival’s inaugural competition section after 30 years of non-competitive programming. BIFF now aligns itself with prestigious international film festivals like Cannes, Venice, and Berlin by launching the competitive “Busan Awards.”

Esteemed filmmaker Na Hong-jin presides over the jury, joined by seven members including Yang Ga-hwi, Nandita Das, Marzieh Meshkini, Kogonada, Yulia Evina Bahara, and Han Hyo-joo. The festival will bestow honors in five categories: Grand Prize, Best Director, Jury Special Prize, Best Actor/Actress, and Artistic Contribution Award.

Highlight Opening Film and Special Programs

Park Chan-wook's "It Can't Be Helped" Opens the Festival

The festival's opening film is director Park Chan-wook’s latest work, "It Can’t Be Helped." Invited to the competition section at the Venice International Film Festival, this film stars Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin as a married couple. It premiered in Asia at BIFF on September 17.

Special Curated Programs This Year

• Carte Blanche: A selection of films personally curated and introduced by notable figures including director Bong Joon-ho, director Maggie Kang, actor Kang Dong-won, novelist Eun Hee-kyung, and journalist Son Suk-hee, followed by engaging discussions with the audience.



(From left) director Bong Joon-ho, director Maggie Kang, actor Kang Dong-won



(From left) novelist Eun Hee-kyung, journalist Son Suk-hee

• Defining Moments of Asian Cinema: Screening ten standout films selected from the top 100 Asian movies over the past 30 years.
• Marco Bellocchio Retrospective: An in-depth look at the works of the esteemed Italian director, highlighting his cinematic artistry.

Major Highlights and Festival Buzz

2025 Camellia Award Presented by Chanel

At the opening ceremony, Taiwan’s Sylvia Chang was honored with the 2025 Camellia Award. With a career spanning over 50 years, including more than 100 acting roles and 15 directorial projects, Sylvia Chang is celebrated as a pioneering figure among Asian female filmmakers, and this award further cements her legacy.

Pre-Festival Celebration

The festival’s pre-opening ceremony took place on September 16 at BIFF Square in Nampo-dong, hosted by actors Lee Jong-hyuk and Park Gyu-ri. Director Yoon Je-kyun and actor Jung Woo were named “Busan’s Beloved Figures in Cinema,” and singer Bada delivered a memorable congratulatory performance.

Essential Visitor Information

Ticket Booking and Pricing

• Standard Screenings: 10,000 KRW
• Opening and Closing Ceremonies: 30,000 KRW
• Actors’ House Screenings: 15,000 KRW

Tickets are available for purchase online via the official BIFF ticket portal (biff.kr). Dedicated counters are also set up on-site for seniors aged 65 and over, as well as for those with limited digital access.

Screening Venues and Transportation

The main screening venues are located around the Busan Cinema Center in Centum City, easily accessible on foot from Centum City Station on Subway Line 2. Due to expected traffic congestion during the festival, visitors are encouraged to use public transportation.

Cinema Etiquette and Policies

• Strict adherence to screening start times; entry is prohibited 15 minutes after showtime.
• All venues utilize reserved seating, except for the Open Cinema.
• No outside food or alcoholic beverages allowed inside theaters.
• Recording or photography during screenings is strictly forbidden.

Free Screenings and Special Events

Open Cinema: Held nightly at 8 PM in the outdoor theater at Busan Cinema Center, offering free admission on a first-come, first-served basis with open seating.

[Open Cinema Film Selection]

Cubby Road Event: An interactive festival program taking place from September 18 to 21 at BIFF Square in Nampo-dong, featuring film shoot experiences, AI photo booths, games, DIY crafts, and various other engaging activities.

 

Additional Visitor Amenities

1. BIFF Mobile App: Download the official app to enjoy:
   • Real-time screening schedule updates and bookmarking.
   • Quick QR code ticket purchasing and verification.
   • Maps and walking routes to venues.
   • Alerts for favorite films.
   • On-site event information and roadmap guides.
2. Complimentary Wi-Fi
   • Available in the Cinema Center lobby, BIFF Square, and Community BIFF areas.
   • SSID: BIFF_FREE_WiFi
   • No authentication needed for access.
3. Luggage Storage
   • Paid coin lockers (2,000 KRW) near the main gate.
   • Free luggage storage available on Basement Level 1 at Busan Cinema Center (accepts both small and large bags).
   • Mobile lockers (1,000 KRW) placed throughout festival venues.
4. Nursing and Childcare Facilities
   • Quiet nursing rooms with comfortable chairs, adjustable lighting, and diaper changing stations on the 2nd floor of Busan Cinema Center.
   • Children’s play area with cushioned mats and play equipment in the Community BIFF zone.
5. Medical and Safety Services
   • First aid kits and professional medical staff stationed near the information desk on the 1st floor of the Cinema Center.
   • Emergency bells installed throughout event locations and 24/7 security personnel on duty.
   • Free drinking water stations outdoors to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.
6. Food and Rest Areas
   • Cinema Center cafeteria offers coffee, tea, sandwiches, and light meals.
   • Food trucks at BIFF Square serving Busan fish cake, tteokbokki, hot dogs, local beers, and specialties.
   • Multiple outdoor picnic tables and shaded rest areas available.
7. Accessibility
   • Wheelchair ramps provided at all screening venues and event areas.
   • Reserved accessible seating available via website or app reservations.
   • Selected screenings offer sign language interpretation and subtitles.
8. Nearby Amenities
   • Convenience stores, pharmacies, and cafes located in the Centum City underground mall.
   • Dining and restaurant street at Lumiere Village, near Busan Cinema Center.
   • Busking stations and guesthouses close to Suyeong Park Station.

** Download the Official BIFF Ticket Catalog

Reflecting on 30 Years: Significance and Vision Ahead

The 30th BIFF marks not just an anniversary but a transformative moment aiming for new heights. By introducing a competition section, the festival seeks to stand alongside the world’s most prestigious international film festivals, redefining its identity from Asia’s cinematic hub to the true hometown of Asian cinema.

Beyond celebrating Korean cinema’s resilience and revival, this edition fosters solidarity among Asian filmmakers and envisions a future of growth and collaboration. With 328 films across 10 vibrant days, this festival promises an unforgettable experience for all movie lovers.

Your enthusiasm and engagement will help make BIFF’s 30th anniversary an event to remember.