Busan International Film Festival features regional films and AI-assisted music

The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is currently underway, featuring several works with strong ties to the Gyeongnam region. Notable screenings include Jung Ji-hye’s second feature film, which was filmed in Yangsan, and Shin Sun’s third feature, which uses Geoje as a central setting. Additionally, Gong Seon-jeong’s short film, ‘Finding Grandmother,’ explores life in Yangsan through a youthful perspective.

This year’s festival has also drawn attention for its creative use of technology during the opening ceremonies. Director Min Kyu-dong, who served as the general director for the opening, utilized AI tools to create personalized entrance songs for guests on the red carpet. While AI was used for production, Min stated that he personally wrote the lyrics to ensure each song reflected the specific genre and atmosphere of the guests' respective works, aiming to provide a unique sense of welcome to both domestic and international attendees.