Korea’s Only Independent Animation Festival, Seoul Indie-AniFest 2026, Opens Sept. 17

Seoul Indie-AniFest 2026, Korea’s only independent animation festival, is set to open Sept. 17. Organizers have unveiled the official poster and trailer, along with a diverse four-film opening lineup, building anticipation for the event.

The official poster was created around the concept of “22,” marking the festival’s 22nd edition. It captures the identity of the festival, now in its 22nd year, through the slogan “Round and Round.” Director Choi Ji-hee, who won the grand prize, “Indie Star” (〈Hooing〉), at Seoul Indie-AniFest 2025, incorporated the warm message: “Let’s bring together everyone’s stories and people from all around and enjoy an exciting festival together!”

Four films were selected as this year’s opening works: 〈Home Stretch〉, 〈Dear My Hero〉, 〈Still, Ryan〉 and 〈What Do You Steal?〉 Together, they will showcase the limitless possibilities of independent animation artists through the festival’s “Round and Round” theme. The lineup was chosen with particular attention to the way commercial projects—sometimes called “outside work” by artists—can become spaces for new experiments and opportunities, as well as platforms for exploring new technologies.

Seoul Indie-AniFest 2026, a steadfast supporter of independent animation creators and a playground for audiences, will be held for six days at CGV Yeonnam, from Thursday, Sept. 17, through Tuesday, Sept. 22.