The 29th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) saw an emotional moment as the late Lee Sun-kyun was posthumously honored with the Korea Cinema Contribution Award. The ceremony, held on October 2nd at the Busan Cinema Center, brought many attendees to tears as they paid tribute to his remarkable legacy.
Park Bo Young and Ahn Jae Hong hosted the opening event, with many stars gracing the red carpet. Notable attendees included Kang Dongwon, Park Jungmin, Cha Seungwon, Kim Sinrok, Jin Seonkyu, Jung Sungil, Lee Jungjae, Jang Donggun, Kim Heeae, Soo Hyun, Song Joongki, Lee Heejun, Park Jihwan, Cho Jinwoong, Lee Junhyuk, Park Sungwoong, Cho Woojin, Ji Changwook, Kim Hyunjoo, Jung Woo, Kim Daemyung, Park Byungeun, Kim Sungcheol, Lee Donghwi, Yejewon, Gong Seungyeon, TWICE’s Dahyun, Jinyoung, Koo Hyesun, Epik High, and Kim Gyuri, among others, celebrating the festival’s grand opening.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
Ahn Jae Hong shared a heartfelt moment reflecting on his experience, saying, “Ten years ago, I was just starting as an actor when I came here with ‘The King of Jokgu.’ The audience’s support kept me going.” The festival kicked off with the screening of the Netflix film ‘Uprising,’ directed by Kim Sangman and produced by Park Chanwook. The film stars Kang Dongwon and Park Jungmin, who shared humorous moments during the opening ceremony.
Park Jungmin joked about his role in the movie, saying, “I am introduced as a nobleman in this film, and Kang Dongwon is my servant, so keep that in mind when watching.” His comment drew laughter from the audience.
Tribute to Sun-kyun
The most moving part of the night was the posthumous tribute to Lee Sun-kyun, who passed away last year. BIFF honored him with a special program titled “The Gentle Person, Lee Sun-kyun,” featuring six of his iconic works, including ‘My Mister’ and ‘Parasite’. A video showcasing his past interviews was shown, where he reflected on his acting journey, saying, “If someone asks why I act, I’d say it’s because it helps me reflect on myself.”
During the tribute, many actors, including Song Joongki, were visibly moved to tears. Park Bo Young closed the tribute with a touching message: “I hope he has found peace, just like in the final farewell of ‘My Mister.’” Ahn Jae Hong added, “We hope this award will be a meaningful way to remember him, and we will make sure it reaches his family.”
More Festival Highlights
In addition to the tribute, the Asia Filmmaker of the Year Award was presented to Kiyoshi Kurosawa, who introduced his works ‘Serpent’s Path’ and ‘Cloud’ at this year’s event. The 29th Busan International Film Festival runs from October 2nd to October 11th, showcasing 279 films across seven theaters in Busan.
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