Actress Kim Minha, acclaimed for her portrayal of young Sunja in Apple TV+'s "Pachinko," will take center stage as the exclusive host for the grand opening ceremony of the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). This significant appointment, announced on July 30, 2026, marks a departure from the festival's long-standing tradition of having two Korean stars lead the event. The festival's organizers anticipate that Minha's poised and spirited presence will set an inspiring tone for this year's cinematic celebration, further cementing BIFF's ambition to elevate the Busan Awards Grand Prize as Asia's most prestigious film accolade.

Celebrated Star Kim Minha to Lead Busan International Film Festival's Opening Night

On July 30, 2026, the Busan International Film Festival committee officially revealed that the esteemed South Korean actress Kim Minha would undertake the pivotal role of solo host for the festival's opening ceremony. This highly anticipated event is scheduled for October 6th, commencing the 31st annual iteration of Asia's premier cinematic gathering. Kim Minha, renowned globally for her compelling performance as the young Sunja in Apple TV+'s critically acclaimed series "Pachinko," has rapidly ascended as a leading figure in Korean entertainment. Her portrayal in "Pachinko," spanning two seasons (2022 and 2024), showcased her remarkable depth and emotional precision, earning her accolades such as Best Actress in the international competition at the 2025 Seoul International Drama Awards and Best New Actress at the 2025 Blue Dragon Series Awards. Her impressive resume also includes roles in the Disney+ series "Light Shop," TVING's "Way Back Love," Netflix's "Typhoon Family," and the 2026 film "Hana Korea." This year, BIFF is dedicated to building upon the momentum of its main competition section, introduced during its landmark 30th edition, with a strategic focus on establishing the Busan Awards Grand Prize as the preeminent honor in Asian cinema. The festival will unfold from October 6th to October 15th, taking place at the iconic Busan Cinema Center and various other distinguished venues across the vibrant South Korean port city.

Kim Minha's selection as the sole host for the Busan International Film Festival's opening ceremony is a testament to her growing influence and undeniable talent. It signals a fresh, dynamic approach for the festival, highlighting the emergence of a new generation of Korean stars on the global stage. Her ability to captivate audiences with profound emotional portrayals makes her an ideal ambassador for an event dedicated to celebrating cinematic excellence. This move not only recognizes her individual achievements but also underscores the increasing international prominence of Korean content. It will be exciting to witness how her singular presence will shape the narrative of this year's festival, inspiring both attendees and a global audience with her warmth and confidence.