Singapore Film Festival to Honor Kore-eda Hirokazu; Korean Director Yim Soon-rye Leads Asian Jury
The Singapore International Film Festival will present its Cinema Honorary Award to Japanese director Kore-eda Hirokazu during its 37th edition, running from Oct. 21 to Nov. 1. Kore-eda will attend a screening of his film "Look Back" on Oct. 24, its Southeast Asia premiere, and participate in a dialogue session where the award will be conferred. Korean filmmaker Yim Soon-rye has been named jury president for the festival's Asian Feature Film Competition.
The 37th Singapore International Film Festival, scheduled from Oct. 21 to Nov. 1, will present its Cinema Honorary Award to Japanese director Kore-eda Hirokazu, recognizing his enduring contributions to Asian cinema. Kore-eda is scheduled to appear at an Oct. 24 screening of "Look Back," which marks the film's Southeast Asian debut ahead of its Oct. 29 theatrical opening, followed by a dialogue session where the award will be conferred.
In a parallel announcement, the festival has appointed Korean filmmaker Yim Soon-rye as jury president for its Asian Feature Film Competition. Yim, a prominent figure in Korean cinema, will lead the jury evaluating entries in the festival's competitive section, underscoring SGIFF's continued emphasis on regional filmmaking talent.
This recognition could strengthen Singapore's position as a hub for Asian cinema, drawing attention from regional industry professionals and film enthusiasts. Kore-eda's participation may boost audience turnout and elevate the festival's international profile, while Yim's jury leadership could encourage greater Korean film industry engagement with Southeast Asian markets. Such cross-regional recognition may also inspire emerging filmmakers across Asia, reinforcing the festival's role in fostering cultural exchange and cinematic dialogue.