At the Forefront of Innovation and the Pinnacle of Genre Cinema

BIFAN 2025 will open with Finding Him, a film based on a script written by AI. Reflecting on the growing presence of AI across society, this opening film delves into existential and philosophical contemplations on the harmonious coexistence of technology and human uniqueness. The closing film Regulars¡¯ Restaurant warmly portrays the meaning of modern familial bonds, concluding the festival with a message of coexistence between advanced technology and humanism. For the first time in five years since the 24th edition, a Korean film has been selected as the closing film, reaffirming BIFAN¡¯s support for Korean cinema. The festival's official international competition section, ¡°Bucheon Choice,¡± features 9 feature films and 11 shorts that highlight the sharp sensibilities and new trends of global genre cinema. In its second year, the AI Film section presents 11 works with more sophisticated narratives and advanced technologies, showcasing the limitless creative potential of AI in filmmaking. Meanwhile, the regular sections will focus on presenting works that stay true to the essence of genre. The ¡°Adrenaline Ride¡± section, BIFAN¡¯s signature thrill-packed lineup, is especially strengthened this year. With a rich and immersive lineup, BIFAN aims to stimulate the senses and reaffirm its unique identity until the festival¡¯s final moment.

The Essence of Genre Entertainment in One Place

BIFAN¡¯s beloved fandom program ¡°Be My Guest¡± will spotlight the 20-year journey of Filmmaker R&K, a trailblazing production company in Korean genre cinema. Screenings of their iconic works will be accompanied by guest talks, offering audiences an in-depth look at their legacy. Director Kim Tae-yong, known for his warm mise-en-sc?ne and stylish direction, presents two works: The Story of Kkokdu and Her Legend, along with rarely screened short films and in-person appearances. BIFAN also hosts the Korean premiere of a new adaptation of Higashino Keigo¡¯s iconic mystery thriller Detective Galileo, accompanied by special programs connecting the stories of the novel and film.

A.I. STEP 2! Training 10,000 AI Video Creators in 5 Years

Positioning itself as a future-oriented platform, BIFAN actively incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) in all stages of filmmaking: education, production, and screening. In 2024, BIFAN launched Korea¡¯s first international AI film competition ¡°Bucheon Choice: AI Films¡± and hosted an international AI conference and filmmaking workshop, leading the shift in AI paradigms. In 2025, under the initiative ¡°A.I. STEP 2!¡±, BIFAN expands these programs. The AI international competition now includes a feature film section. The AI filmmaking workshop, which was a hackathon-style short film project last year, now includes short films, AI-based omnibus mid-length works, and AI+XR fusion content creation. With the founding of the AI Visual Education Center Bucheon, BIFAN aims to institutionalize AI film workshops and build a specialized education system for emerging creators. Additionally, this year¡¯s AI Conference will focus on the ethics and artistry of AI creators. The Entertech Forum will explore collaborations with leading generative AI tech companies, aiming to diagnose industry shifts and co-create an ecosystem of AI-based filmmaking. These initiatives demonstrate BIFAN¡¯s commitment to becoming a global hub for AI-driven innovation in cinema and its willingness to boldly explore new narratives at the intersection of technology and art.

A Festival Where Tradition and Innovation Coexist

Known for introducing experimental and unique genre films, BIFAN continues its role in expanding the horizons of Korean cinema. Amid concerns about the Korean film industry¡¯s future, BIFAN remains dedicated to showcasing innovative works that remind audiences of the joy of cinema. Selecting a Korean film as the closing film again after five years signals unwavering support for domestic cinema. BIFAN also continues to offer dynamic experiences exclusive to in-person festivals. By integrating technologies like VR and XR, BIFAN presents cinematic moments that go beyond the screen. Having played a pioneering role in the film industry¡¯s adoption of AI, BIFAN will continue to act not only as a showcase for new technologies but also as a platform for education and collaboration to support their sustainable integration into the industry.

Actor Special Program of the Year: The Master - LEE BYUNG HUN

Celebrating iconic moments with some of Korea¡¯s most prominent actors, BIFAN has selected LEE BYUNG HUN as the focus of the 2025 ¡°Actor Special Program.¡± Since 2017, this program has spotlighted leading figures in contemporary Korean cinema, including Jeon Do-yeon, Jung Woo-sung, Kim Hye-soo, Sol Kyung-gu, Choi Min-sik, and Son Ye-jin. This year¡¯s title, The Master: LEE BYUNG HUN, celebrates an actor recognized both domestically and globally for his genre-defying talent and screen presence. The program includes the publication of a commemorative book, mega talks, exhibitions, and guest appearances. LEE BYUNG HUN will also walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony, adding prestige to the festival¡¯s opening night.

A Fantastic July Festival with the City of Bucheon

Loved by film fans for 28 years for its unique and distinctive lineup, BIFAN returns with a range of outdoor events centered around its signature ¡°July Carnival.¡± This program takes place over three days along Sohyang-ro near Bucheon City Hall and features a night market, lawn concerts, treasure hunts, and more. This year, with a focus on local collaboration, the ¡°Local Coexistence Market¡± will highlight Bucheon¡¯s small businesses and traditional market vendors. The festival will also expand its popular Chimaek (chicken & beer) Festival and present performances by rising indie bands on the lawn stage. Additional attractions include ¡°The Bizarre Photo Studio,¡± where attendees can commemorate their BIFAN experience, and ¡°Bizarre Shops,¡± which collaborates with local businesses for fun street events. BIFAN aims to be a festival enjoyed by all citizens and film fans?a truly immersive ¡°Fantastic City¡± experience.