This year marks the 30th edition of the Busan International Film Festival, which will kick off with actor Lee Byung-hun. Since the 8th Busan International Film Festival in 2003, Lee Byung-hun has maintained a steady connection with Busan and is set to be the first male solo host in the festival's history, which is expected to further solidify the significance and weight of this milestone festival.
Celebrating his 35th year in the industry, Lee Byung-hun has established himself as a 'world-class' actor representing South Korea with his limitless acting spectrum and irreplaceable presence, crossing over between the big screen and television. Recently, he has appeared in the Netflix series 'Squid Game,' once again elevating the international status of Korean content. His selection as the host for the opening ceremony of the Busan International Film Festival carries more meaning than just being a presenter. The opening ceremony of the 30th Busan International Film Festival will serve as a turning point to redefine the festival's identity and direction, and with Lee Byung-hun's presence at this significant moment, a special stage connecting audiences and filmmakers will be created.
Lee Byung-hun has solidified his status as a leading actor in South Korea by showcasing his exceptional acting skills in films such as 'Inside Men' (2015), 'The Fortress' (2017), 'The Man Standing Next' (2020), 'Emergency Declaration' (2022), 'Concrete Utopia' (2023), and 'The Match' (2025), while also sweeping major acting awards.
He is expected to showcase a new side of himself in the upcoming film 'Can't Help It.' Since making his Hollywood debut in 'G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra' (2009), he has left a strong impression on the global film industry with appearances in 'Red 2' (2013), 'Terminator Genisys' (2015), and 'The Magnificent Seven' (2016). Recently, he has transcended being just an actor, becoming a symbol with his refined expressiveness and controlled emotional range in voice acting for projects like 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' (2025) and 'King of Kings' (2025).
The 30th Busan International Film Festival will be held for 10 days from September 17 to 26 at the Busan Cinema Center.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
