The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has announced an exciting lineup of 23 films for its Vision Korea and Vision Asia sections, setting the stage for a celebration of independent cinema from October 6 to 15, 2026. This year’s selections promise to showcase the innovative and diverse voices that define contemporary filmmaking in the region.
The festival’s Vision program, introduced last year, serves as a platform for emerging and mid-career directors to present their unique visions. The program has evolved from its predecessor, Korean Cinema Today – Vision, to encompass a broader spectrum of Asian cinema, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and creativity.
The Vision Korea Selections
The Vision Korea section features 12 films that embody the spirit of Korean independent cinema. Among the notable entries is Things I Left at the Theater by Park Kun-young, a drama about a film journalist’s quest to find an old friend’s short film. Jang Woojin’s Cosmic Trace explores themes of love, loss, and fate through the lens of two individuals reflecting on their lives. Kim Miyoung, whose previous work A Lonely Island in the Distant Sea won the DGK Megabox Award in 2026, returns with Some Detective a story about a writer confronting figures from her past.
Other highlights include Shin Dongmin’s Not For You which received post-production support from BIFF’s Asian Cinema Fund, and Oh Sehyeon’s Baler a follow-up to the director’s 2026 film Usu. The Vision Korea lineup also includes animated features like Kim Hyomi’s Earbug and Kim Si-jin’s The Flower showcasing the versatility of Korean filmmakers.
The Vision Asia Selections
The Vision Asia section presents 11 films from across the continent, reflecting the rich tapestry of Asian cinema. Vietnamese filmmaker Nguyễn Hoàng Điệp returns with 1982 a poignant tale of a bankrupt filmmaker searching for her missing mother. Filipino director Arvin Belarmino’s Ria is a folk-punk drama about a musician’s struggle to preserve her home and music. Mongolia’s Sakhya Byamba, known for his award-winning film Remote Control presents Zogsool a satire set during the early days of COVID-19.
Thai actor Inthira Charoenpura makes her directorial debut with Bua co-directed by Phensiri Klangsurin. Other notable entries include India’s Shashank Walia’s Birds in the Dark and Iran’s Mani Moghaddam’s Slumber which uses magical realism to address oppressive realities. The Vision Asia selections also feature works from Japan, Kazakhstan, and Hong Kong, highlighting the diverse narratives and styles that define Asian cinema.
Opening Film and Honors
The festival will open with Kim Jong-kwan’s The Table: Day and Night a romance set in a Seoul cafe. The film is a loose follow-up to Kim’s 2016 feature The Table and will world premiere at the Busan Cinema Center on October 6. Star Kim Minha will host the opening ceremony, where Michelle Yeoh will receive the Asian Filmmaker of the Year honor, Ann Hui will be awarded the Chanel-backed Camellia Award, and festival founder Kim Dong-ho will be presented with the Korean Cinema Award.
The 31st Busan International Film Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of cinema, with the Asian Contents & Film Market running from October 10 to 13. The complete official selection will be unveiled in Seoul on September 1, building anticipation for this year’s cinematic showcase.
