The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) paid a heartfelt tribute to the late actor Lee Sun Kyun, honoring him with the Korea Cinema Award.
On October 2nd, at the opening ceremony held at the Busan Cinema Center, the festival acknowledged Lee Sun Kyun’s contributions to Korean cinema with a touching memorial video, as the actor was posthumously selected for the prestigious award. The Korea Cinema Award is given to those who have elevated the stature of Korean cinema and contributed to its global growth.
The tribute video highlighted Lee Sun Kyun’s passion for acting, revisiting his past interview where Lee said, “When someone asks me why I act, I would say, ‘Because it makes me reflect on myself.’ Acting gives you these indirect emotional experiences that help you grow. I just want to keep acting like I am now, facing new challenges and doing my best one step at a time.”
The video also showcased clips from some of his most iconic works, including his final films Land of Happiness and Project Silence, as well as Parasite (2019), My Mister (2018), and Our Sunhi (2013). As the tribute played, actors such as Lee Jung Jae, Park Jung Min, Cha Seung Won, and Jin Sun Kyu were seen watching solemnly, clearly moved by the memories of their late colleague.
Song Joong Ki, who appeared in the guest visit for Land of Happiness, was especially emotional during the tribute, closing his eyes or wiping away tears. For many actors, having worked closely with Lee in various projects, the moment was undoubtedly difficult.
After the video, BIFF hosts Park Bo Young and Ahn Jae Hong offered their own tributes. Park stated, “It was such a heartbreaking farewell. I hope he rests in peace.” Ahn added, “Six of Lee Sun Kyun’s most iconic works will be screened at the festival. I hope this serves as a moment for us to remember him. We will make sure his family receives the award.” Lee’s wife Jeon Hye Jin and other family members were not present to receive the award, marking the poignant end to the tribute.
BIFF also created a special program called “The Gentle Soul, Lee Sun Kyun” to honor his legacy. The event will screen six of his most beloved films—Paju, Our Sunhi, A Hard Day, My Mister, Parasite, and Land of Happiness—along with a special talk session in his memory.
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