Park Chan-wook Named Cannes Jury President

South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook has been appointed jury president for the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Korean director to hold the prestigious role. The festival will run from May 12 to 23, with Park presiding over the jury that selects the Palme d’Or winner.

The announcement marks a historic milestone for Korean cinema, reflecting its growing global influence and sustained presence at major international festivals.

A Landmark Moment for Korean Cinema

Park’s appointment underscores the rising stature of South Korean filmmakers on the world stage. Over the past two decades, Korean cinema has gained international acclaim for its bold storytelling and genre innovation.

As jury president, Park will lead deliberations and help determine the recipient of the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest honour. His selection signals Cannes’ continued engagement with Asian cinema and its evolving global narrative.

Longstanding Cannes Association

Park Chan-wook shares a deep history with Cannes. His 2004 film Oldboy won the Grand Prix, the festival’s second-highest prize. In 2009, he received the Jury Prize for Thirst. More recently, he won Best Director in 2022 for Decision to Leave.

Festival president Iris Knobloch and director Thierry Frémaux praised Park’s cinematic inventiveness and visual mastery, noting his ability to capture complex human impulses and moral ambiguity on screen.

Recent Work and Industry Impact

Park’s latest film, No Other Choice, centres on an unemployed man who resorts to extreme measures to secure a new job. The film was selected as South Korea’s submission for the Academy Awards but did not secure a nomination. It was nevertheless widely acclaimed and featured among top international releases of 2025.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Cannes Film Festival is held annually in Cannes, France.
• The Palme d’Or is the festival’s highest award.
• Oldboy won the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2004.
• South Korea’s Parasite won the Palme d’Or in 2019.

Continuing Legacy at Cannes

Park follows French actress Juliette Binoche, who served as jury president in 2025. His appointment adds another milestone to a Cannes career spanning over two decades. This year, he will play a decisive role in shaping the festival’s legacy by selecting the film that defines global cinema in 2026.