Lee Yong-kwan, Chairman of the Busan International Film Festival, Announces Resignation

by Lee Jonggil

Published 15 May.2023 14:45(KST)

Updated 15 May.2023 15:17(KST)

"I will step down as soon as the situation is resolved"

Lee Yong-gwan, chairman of the Busan International Film Festival, announced his intention to step down from his position. In a press conference held on the 15th regarding the resignation of Executive Director Heo Mun-young, he expressed his willingness to take full responsibility.

Lee Yong-kwan, Chairman of the Busan International Film Festival

Chairman Lee stated, "I initially informed the media that I would step down as chairman at the end of 2023, but due to the recent situation, I have decided to resign early," adding, "I will step down as soon as this matter is resolved."

The issue began with the establishment of the position of Operations Committee Chairman, creating a dual-chairman system. On the 9th, at an extraordinary general meeting, former Korea Film Council Secretary-General Jo Jong-guk was appointed as Operations Committee Chairman, and two days later, Executive Director Heo submitted his resignation.

The film industry has been urging Heo’s return through statements and other means. The Korean Film Producers Association stated on the 15th, "Executive Director Heo is a person who has received positive evaluations both inside and outside the film industry," and "the majority of filmmakers believe he is the right person to lead the Busan Film Festival for some time."

The Busan Film Critics Association also expressed doubts about the establishment of the Operations Committee Chairman position and echoed similar sentiments. They said, "The problem lies in the fact that Jo Jong-guk is known as a figure from the so-called 'Lee Yong-gwan line,'" and demanded, "Chairman Lee must clearly explain why he appointed Jo Jong-guk to this position and why he forced the appointment at a time when the festival is just over five months away." They added, "If the Executive Director cannot be involved in administration and budgeting, it is clear that the actual power of the festival will effectively be held by the Operations Committee Chairman."