The 43rd Busan International Short Film Festival Opens on the 23rd; 6,000 Films from 124 Countries Expected

Where the eyes of 5,966 films from 124 countries worldwide are focused, the most prestigious short film festival in Korea, the “43rd Busan International Short Film Festival,” opens in Busan on the 23rd with an overwhelming scale. This year’s core theme is “Cinema & Lumière.” A stage unfolds that pursues the source of art created by light and video, proving the limitless expandability of cinema.

“43rd Busan International Short Film Festival,” the essence of short films from around the world lands in Busan

The “43rd Busan International Short Film Festival”, which boasts the largest scale in Korea, will kick off in grand style from the 23rd to the 28th at venues such as the Busan Cinema Center and BNK Busan Bank Art Cinema Corner Theater. Launched in 1980 and now in its 43rd edition, this festival took “Cinema & Lumière” as its theme. It explores the aesthetics of light and video—essential elements of film—and offers an in-depth look at the origins and expanding horizons of cinema.

An unprecedented level of competition: 60 selected from 5,966 submissions across 124 countries

This year, the festival saw fierce competition as a total of 5,966 works were submitted from 124 countries around the world. After rigorous review, a total of 60 works were selected as final screening films, including 40 films in the “International Competition” category and 20 films in the “Korean Competition” category.

Celebrating the 140th anniversary of Korea–France diplomatic relations, France chosen as the guest country

In particular, attention is drawn to the fact that “France” was selected as the guest country to mark the 140th anniversary of Korea–France diplomatic relations. Through this festival, audiences can experience the distinctive charm and artistry of French short films.

Opening Film and Key Schedule

At the opening ceremony held at 7:00 p.m. on the 23rd at the Busan Cinema Center, four opening films will meet audiences for the first time.

• France: “There’s Always Something You’ve Forgotten”

• China: “Roundabout Interchange”

• Germany: “A Film That Never Existed”

• Netherlands: “Fanny”

In addition, a variety of events are planned throughout the festival, including talks and roundtable discussions. On the 25th, the schedule for a short film production support project will be unveiled, and at the closing ceremony on the 28th, the final winners—including the Best Film awards in each category—will be announced.

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