Park Chan-wook Named Jury President for 79th Cannes Film Festival

Director Park Chan-wook has been appointed as the Jury President for the 79th Cannes Film Festival. This marks the first time a Korean has been selected for this prestigious role. It is also a significant moment for Asian directors, as Park is the first since Wong Kar-wai in 2006 to hold this position.

According to international news agencies such as AP and AFP, Park Chan-wook will lead the jury for the competition section at the Cannes Film Festival.

In a statement, Cannes Film Festival's President Iris Knobloch and Executive Director Thierry Frémaux praised Park's originality, visual storytelling, and his ability to capture the complex impulses of characters with strange destinies, which have created unforgettable moments in modern cinema. They expressed their delight in highlighting his exceptional talent and the broader scope of Korean cinema that engages deeply with contemporary issues.

Park Chan-wook shared his thoughts, stating, "In an era of hatred and division, the simple act of gathering in a theater to watch a film together, synchronizing our breaths and heartbeats, can move hearts and create universal solidarity."

Park succeeds French actress Juliette Binoche, who served as the jury president last year. Despite not being nominated at the recent Academy Awards, this appointment reaffirms his status as a 'master of cinema.'

Park Chan-wook's connection with Cannes dates back to 2004 when he won the Grand Prix for 'Oldboy.' He later received the Jury Prize for 'Thirst' in 2009 and the Best Director award for 'Decision to Leave' in 2022.

The 79th Cannes Film Festival is scheduled to take place from May 12 to 23 in the southern French city of Cannes.

By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr