Taiwanese Actor and Director Sylvia Chang Wins the ‘2025 Camellia Award’

The 30th Busan International Film Festival opening ceremony was held on September 17 at the outdoor theater of the Busan Cinema Center, where Taiwanese actor, director, producer, and screenwriter Sylvia Chang, who has been active for over 50 years, received the ‘2025 Camellia Award’. The award was presented by Claus Oldager, the representative of Chanel Korea, who emphasized Sylvia Chang's achievements as a creator and her significant contributions as a female filmmaker while explaining the background of the award selection.

In her acceptance speech, Sylvia Chang expressed her heartfelt gratitude for receiving such a meaningful award, reflecting on her journey of balancing various roles as an actress, producer, wife, and mother while maintaining her passion for film. She added, “The moments of challenge have actually been the driving force that pushed me forward,” quoting the language of the camellia flower, which symbolizes passion and love, to express her dedication and deep affection for cinema.

Sylvia Chang has played a leading role in the Asian film industry for over 50 years, showcasing her acting across generations and genres in more than 100 works. She has also proven her directorial skills with films such as 〈20 30 40〉(2004), 〈Whispers of the Heart〉(2015), and 〈Love and Friendship: Women's Stories〉(2017). Her artistic achievements and influence are recognized as significantly contributing to amplifying the voices of Asian female filmmakers. Sylvia Chang's extensive contributions have led to various international awards, including the Chevalier of the French Order of Arts and Letters, the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Asian Film Awards, and the Golden Mulberry Lifetime Achievement Award at the Udine Far East Film Festival, and she has also served as a mentor inspiring the growth of younger filmmakers.

The Camellia Award was established inspired by the camellia flower, which is the symbol of Busan and was loved by Gabrielle Chanel, the founder of Chanel. This award, co-established by Chanel and the Busan International Film Festival, has become a cultural symbol that elevates the status of women in the film industry and highlights their cultural and artistic contributions. Last year, the first recipient was the renowned art director of Korea, Ryu Seong-hee. Chanel continues to carry on Gabrielle Chanel's artistic legacy and is making multifaceted efforts to support creative activities for filmmakers and the sustainability of the cultural and artistic ecosystem.

Meanwhile, the 30th Busan International Film Festival will be held from September 17 (Wednesday) to 26 (Friday) at the Busan Cinema Center, and a special talk 〈Camellia Award Winner, Sylvia Chang's Films and Life〉 will take place on September 19 (Friday) at the Busan Cinema Center's small theater.