Hi, this is Izumitani from the Ehime Film Commission (Ehime FC).
This was my first time attending BIFF (Busan International Film Festival).
BIFF is a significant event that includes the Busan International Film Festival, a content market, and multiple project exhibitions tailored for producers, directors, screenwriters, and IP professionals. The area we participated in, which focused on buying, selling, and promoting film projects, was the most significant section of the event.
Since many industry professionals were staying at nearby hotels, the organizers provided free shuttle buses to and from BEXCO (Busan Exhibition & Convention Center), which highlighted the event’s scale.
One significant difference from Hong Kong FILMART, which I attended in March 2024, was that BIFF had fewer technology-focused exhibitors and fewer Chinese companies present.
Japan’s Presence at BIFF
Japan participated in BIFF as part of AFCNet (Asian Film Commission Network), a multinational organization promoting filming opportunities across Asia.
At the AFCNet booth, I interacted with film commission representatives from Busan (the AFCNet chair), the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Jordan, Japan, and more. Many industry professionals also visited for meetings, introductions, and networking, giving me several opportunities to introduce Japan and Ehime as potential filming destinations.
From Japan, besides Japan FC, AFCNet members included representatives from Tokyo, Kobe, and Hiroshima Film Commissions.
A Thriving Market Scene
Throughout the market, sellers (content creators) and buyers (distributors and investors) engaged in meetings and matchmaking sessions. It was truly overwhelming to see so many people from around the world gather to develop, sell, and buy films, ultimately leading to the creation of hit movies.
I saw firsthand how South Korea plays a leading role in shaping the Asian film industry behind the scenes.