The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has finalized the jury lineups for its major non-competition sections, bringing together a diverse group of international filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals. The announcement, made as the festival approaches its October start, covers the committees responsible for selecting winners of the Mecenat, Sonje, NETPAC, and FIPRESCI awards.
The festival is scheduled to run from October 6 to October 15, 2026, opening with the romantic drama The Table: Day and Night, directed by Kim Jong-kwan.
Documentary and Short Film Juries
The Mecenat Award, which recognizes outstanding documentary films from Korea and Asia, will be judged by a three-person panel featuring Indian director Rintu Thomas, known for her Oscar-nominated work; Korean filmmaker Kim Taeil; and Chinese documentarian Zhou Hao. This award carries a cash prize of 10 million KRW (approximately $7,500).
For the Sonje Award, which honors the best short films in the Korean and Asian sections, the jury includes Indian director Anuparna Roy, Nepalese filmmaker Abinash Bikram Shah, and Korean director Lee Ran-hee. Like the Mecenat Award, the Sonje Award provides 10 million KRW in prize money to the winners.
Critical and Network Awards
The Busan International Film Festival also confirmed the members of its specialized critical juries. The NETPAC Award, presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific Cinema to the best Asian film in the New Currents section, will be decided by Nina Kochelyaeva, Matthew Poon, and Lee Dong-ha.
The FIPRESCI Award, representing the International Federation of Film Critics, will be determined by Ma Xingxu, Teresa Vena, and Roh Chul-hwan. This honor is traditionally given to a work in the New Currents section that demonstrates a unique cinematic vision.
Major Honors and Special Recognitions
Beyond the competitive juries, the 2026 festival will celebrate several legendary figures in world cinema. Michelle Yeoh is set to receive The Asian Filmmaker of the Year award, recognizing her significant contributions to the industry and global cultural impact.
Additionally, director Ann Hui will be honored with the Camellia Award, a joint initiative between BIFF and CHANEL. This award is designed to celebrate the work of women in cinema who have pushed creative boundaries and influenced the next generation of filmmakers.
The 31st edition continues BIFF’s role as a primary hub for Asian cinema, balancing its competitive sections with high-profile tributes and a focus on emerging talent across short-form and documentary storytelling.
