Jecheon International Music & Film Festival awards 15 million won grand prize to 'The Loneliest Man in That City'

'Jecheon International Music & Film Festival' stages dazzling finale with 189 films from 45 countries

The 22nd 'Jecheon International Music & Film Festival', which filled Jecheon, North Chungcheong province, with the enchanting sounds of film and music, came to a grand close on the 8th with its closing ceremony at the Jecheon Arts Center.

The highlight of the closing ceremony, hosted with poise by broadcaster 'Song Eun-yi' and actor 'Han Ye-ri', was the announcement of the competition winners. With the eyes of filmmakers around the world fixed on the festival, the grand prize in the International Music Film Competition, which carries a 15 million won award, went to directors Tizza Covi and Rainer Frimmel's 'The Loneliest Man in That City'. The film earned the jury's overwhelming acclaim after a fierce competition.

The Korean Feature Film Musician Competition also produced a landmark achievement. Acclaimed Korean film music director Kim Jun-seok won the award for 'High Five', taking home the same 15 million won prize.

Under this year's forward-looking slogan, 'Fly Together' (Fly Together), the festival presented 189 diverse films invited from 45 countries, giving audiences an immersive experience. More than a screening event, it served as a cultural melting pot where music and narratives from around the world intersected.

The festival's special programs, which offered a glimpse into the hidden sides of acclaimed directors, drew an especially enthusiastic response. 'Talk to You', featuring directors including 'Bong Joon-ho' and 'Park Chan-wook' taking the stage to discuss their cinematic visions in depth, won high praise from film fans. The festival also added exhibitions of never-before-seen stills from acclaimed films 'Oldboy' and 'Snowpiercer', which had never been shown to the public, as well as a film music academy designed to nurture the next generation of great directors. The diverse lineup further elevated the festival's stature and depth.