The Busan International Film Festival has selected Kim Dong-ho, its founding festival director, as the recipient of the 31st BIFF’s Korean Cinema Award. This recognition celebrates individuals whose contributions have significantly influenced the development of Korean cinema and enhanced its international standing. The award will be presented during the festival’s opening ceremony on October 6.
Kim’s extensive career in cinema spans multiple sectors, beginning with positions at government cultural institutions before he established the Busan festival in 1996. During his time leading BIFF, he implemented a groundbreaking approach by allowing the festival to operate independently from government film censorship, a decision that attracted filmmakers globally and transformed the event into a vital hub for Asian cinema. His tenure lasted over 15 years and fundamentally shaped the festival’s reputation.
Beyond his festival leadership, Kim has remained active in the film industry through various roles, including dean at Dankook Graduate School of Cinematic Content and chair positions at multiple organizations. He has served on juries at prominent international festivals and continues to promote Korean cinema worldwide, attending more than ten festivals annually despite being in his late eighties. His recent filmmaking credits include the 2024 documentary “Walking in the Movies” and his 2025 feature directorial debut featuring collaborations with renowned Korean directors.
Originally reported by Variety →
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