Actor Byeon Woo Seok joins Seoul Independent Film Festival to support rising indie filmmakers with “Shorts on 2025” project

The Seoul Independent Film Festival 2025 (SIFF2025) is launching a new short film production support initiative titled “SIFF X Byeon Woo Seok: Shorts on 2025”, in collaboration with actor Byeon Woo Seok. The project aims to empower talented creators in Korea’s independent film scene and will accept submissions from October 10 to October 24 KST.

This initiative arrives at a time when Korea’s film industry is undergoing rapid transformation in both production and audience engagement. Despite the stagnation of mainstream commercial cinema, SIFF received a record-breaking 1,805 submissions for its 51st edition—signaling a strong creative pulse in the indie sector.

The project will focus on the theme of “love”, selecting up to three short fiction films, with a total of 30 million KRW (~$22,000 USD) in production funding distributed among the winners. Finalists will receive mentorship from professionals and creative collaboration with Byeon Woo Seok and his agency Baro Entertainment. The completed works will be screened and distributed through SIFF.

Byeon Woo Seok, known for his roles in '20th Century Girl,' 'Soulmate,' 'Strong Girl Nam-soon,' and most recently 'Lovely Runner,' has garnered international acclaim for his expressive performances. He is also set to star in the highly anticipated Netflix series 'Solo Leveling,' further solidifying his versatility across media and genres. His involvement as both patron and judge underscores a growing bridge between the mainstream and independent sectors.

Since 2009, SIFF has continuously provided support for production, distribution, and development within Korea’s indie scene. “Shorts on 2025” marks a significant evolution of this commitment by offering a one-stop system from script to screen.

Eligible applicants must have prior experience directing short films and submit a screenplay that aligns with the project’s theme. Submissions are accepted via email (project@siff.kr) and Google Forms, with full details available on the official SIFF website.

SIFF2025 will run from November 27 to December 5, showcasing the future of Korean independent cinema.