Busan International film festival celebrates 30 years with Lee Byung-hun, Park Chan-wook and star-studded lineup

The 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) opened on September 17 at the Busan Cinema Center with thunderous applause, led by actor Lee Byung-hun, who delivered a deeply personal reflection. Celebrating his 30th year in the film industry, Lee noted how his career has paralleled the festival's own remarkable growth since its launch in 1996. Lee says "I made my debut in 1995, which makes this my 30th year as an actor. Coincidentally, BIFF also began its journey around the same time," Lee said to the packed outdoor theater. "When I first attended, I sat in the audience wondering what films would be shown and if I might someday stand on this stage. Now, here I am, truly humbled to be your host." The night's historic moment was amplified by director Park Chan-wook's latest film 'No Other Choice,' chosen as the festival's opening title. Standing at the podium, Park recalled his doubts from the early days of BIFF. "When I first heard about starting this festival, many thought it was reckless. But here we are, 30 years later," he said. "To have my film open this special anniversary edition is hard to believe. It is a true honor." Lee's reflection cast the spotlight on how both artist and festival transformed from small beginnings into international figures. BIFF, once considered an uncertain experiment, is now a cultural powerhouse for Asian cinema. Similarly, Lee has evolved into one of Korea's most recognized actors worldwide. Their intertwined narratives highlighted the evening, making the anniversary less about numbers and more about shared perseverance. With the festival set to showcase 328 films until September 26, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Closing his remarks, Lee left the audience with a personal hope: that every attendee would carry lasting memories from this celebration of cinema. For both the actor and the festival, 30 years was not a destination, but the beginning of another chapter.