Actor Byeon Woo-seok is partnering with Seoul Independent Film Festival 2025 on a new production fund for indie filmmakers.
SIFF 2025 will open submissions for “SIFF X Byeon Woo-seok: Shorts on 2025” from Oct. 10 to Oct. 24, a 15-day window. The collaboration―bringing a mainstream favorite directly into the indie space―aims to energize the creative ecosystem and help lay stronger groundwork for the future of Korean cinema.
Byeon has drawn notice for nuanced turns across drama and film, including "Moonshine," "Strong Girl Nam-soon," "20th Century Girl" and "Soulmate." He broke out globally with the hit series "Lovely Runner," and was recently cast as the lead in the upcoming Netflix series "Solo Leveling." His backing of this project underscores both his growth as an actor and his commitment to uplifting emerging creators.
The theme for submissions is “love.” Up to three narrative shorts will be selected to share a production grant totaling 30 million won. Byeon will sit on the final jury, with mentorship provided by VARO Entertainment and industry professionals, plus collaboration with an executive producer. Finished films will receive screening and distribution support through SIFF.
“SIFF X Byeon Woo-seok: Shorts on 2025” accepts entries from Oct. 10 to Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. KST. Final selections―following a document review and interviews―will be announced at the 51st Seoul Independent Film Festival in 2025. Eligible applicants must have prior experience directing a short, submit a script centered on the theme of love, and be able to complete the film by August 2026. Submissions are accepted via email and Google Forms; full guidelines are available on the SIFF official website.
Seoul Independent Film Festival 2025 runs Nov. 27 to Dec. 5.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)