BIFF's film market hits record scale, cementing Busan's role as Asian content hub

부산국제영화제 폐막, 20만 관객 돌파하며 글로벌 위상 강화 Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon. The 31st Busan International Film Festival has wrapped up, drawing more than 200,000 moviegoers for the first time since 2015. Global stars, including Michelle Yeoh, brought international attention to Busan, while the festival strengthened its global standing with its second year of competition and A-list recognition. Its film market also attracted a record 1,200 companies from 58 countries, highlighting Busan's growing influence in the industry. So, what made this year's festival a success, and what challenges lie ahead as BIFF aims to join the world's top film festivals? For more on this, we're joined in the studio by Jason Bechervaise, Film Critic & Assistant Professor at Hanyang University. Welcome Also joining us is Marc Raymond, Professor of Media and Communication at Kwangwoon University. Good to see you. 1. (JASON) Let's start with your firsthand experience. You were at this year's BIFF. What stood out to you the most? 2. (RAYMOND) Turning to the turnout, BIFF drew more than 200,000 moviegoers for the first time since 2015. What drove this strong response, and how can the festival keep that momentum going? 3. (JASON) Now, looking at its global appeal, major stars like Michelle Yeoh attended this year's festival. What does their presence tell us about BIFF's international influence? 4. (RAYMOND) And in terms of its global standing, BIFF is now in its second year of competition and has earned FIAPF A-list recognition. How significant are these milestones? 5. (JASON) Turning to the awards, Majid Majidi's Midday Meal took the top prize among 13 Asian films. What did you make of the jury's decision under Zhang Yimou? Did the winners reflect BIFF's unique identity? 6. (JASON) Looking beyond the awards, Midday Meal is also eligible for submission to the International Feature Film Oscar. How can BIFF better support winning films with global distribution, investment, and future projects? 7. (RAYMOND) Staying with the competition, what progress has BIFF made in its second year, and what still needs to improve to compete with the world's top festivals? 8. (JASON) Beyond established filmmakers, BIFF also partnered with Netflix to support emerging creators. What more can it do to discover and nurture the next generation of Asian filmmakers? 9. (RAYMOND) Finally, looking ahead, BIFF has made gains in global recognition, audience turnout, and industry influence. What's the biggest challenge it needs to tackle next? That will be all from us on Within the Frame. Be sure to tune in next time as we continue to explore the stories that matter. Until then, stay informed and engaged! #Busan_International_Film_Festival #BIFF #Film #Cinema #JasonBechervaise #MarcRaymond #부산_국제_영화제 #부국제 #영화 #폐막 #Arirang_News #아리랑뉴스 📣 Facebook :   / arirangtvnews   📣 Youtube :    / @arirangcokrarirangnews   📣 Homepage : https://v2.arirang.com/ 2026-10-16, 20:30 (KST)