
박찬욱
Comprehensive chronicle of Park Chan-wook's journey to global stardom
Comprehensive chronicle of Park Chan-wook's journey to global stardom
Donald E. Westlake's 1997 satirical thriller 'The Ax' inspired Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice.' The novel's dark tone matched Park's style, leading to critical acclaim and awards. This adaptation highlights Park's engagement with international literary works, establishing the literary origin and thematic foundation for the film.
Donald E. Westlake's novel 'The Ax' provided the literary foundation for Park Chan-wook's award-winning film adaptation 'No Other Choice,' aligning with his directorial style.
The novel's publication established the literary origin and thematic foundation for Park Chan-wook's film adaptation, demonstrating his engagement with international literary works.
Park Chan-wook's black comedy 'No Other Choice', based on Donald E. Westlake's 'The Ax', premiered as the opening film at the 30th Busan International Film Festival on September 17, 2025, and was released in theaters on September 24, quickly gaining box office traction. The film, which also competed at Venice, was praised for its satirical take on capitalism and marked a significant milestone in Park's career, with active audience engagement and critical reviews following its launch.
Park Chan-wook's long-awaited film 'No Other Choice,' in development for 17 years, has completed production and is set for release this year.
Park Chan-wook attended a press conference in Seoul for his film 'No Other Choice,' discussing his 20-year journey to adapt Donald E. Westlake's 'The Ax.' This marks the culmination of a long-standing passion project for the director. The film is described as a blend of heartbreaking and hilarious elements, with Park emphasizing its darkly absurd humor.
Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' will open the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), highlighting its significance in Park's career and its success beyond Venice. The festival organizers praised the film as embodying what audiences hope to see in contemporary Korean cinema, showcasing BIFF's respect for Park's influence in revitalizing Korean cinema. This selection emphasizes the film's prominent role in major international film festivals and its continued recognition. The festival runs until 2025-09-26, further extending the film's exposure and acclaim.
Yonhap published a review of Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice', analyzing its satirical take on capitalism and visual style. This marks continued critical engagement with Park's work following the film's release. The review highlights the film's blend of comedy and serious themes while noting some narrative pacing issues.
Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' was released in theaters. This marked the official launch of his latest directorial project, a black comedy based on Donald E. Westlake's novel 'The Ax'. The film quickly gained traction, leading to significant box office performance in its opening days.
Moviegoers were photographed with 'No Other Choice' tickets and posters at a Seoul cinema. This indicates active public engagement and promotional activities surrounding the film's release. The visual documentation reflects the movie's popularity and audience interaction early in its theatrical run.
The 30th Busan International Film Festival concludes, featuring Park Chan-wook's film as the opening presentation. This placement reinforces Park's status as a leading figure in Korean and international cinema. No specific follow-up developments regarding Park are mentioned in relation to this date.
Park Chan-wook's long-awaited passion project, 'No Other Choice', is finally complete after 17 years in the making and will hit theaters later this year. The acclaimed director has wrapped filming on the highly anticipated film. At a 2025 press conference in Seoul, Park discussed his 20-year journey to adapt Donald E. Westlake's 'The Ax,' describing the film as a blend of heartbreaking and hilarious elements with darkly absurd humor.
Park Chan-wook's long-awaited film 'No Other Choice,' in development for 17 years, has completed production and is set for release this year.
Park Chan-wook attended a press conference in Seoul for his film 'No Other Choice,' discussing his 20-year journey to adapt Donald E. Westlake's 'The Ax.' This marks the culmination of a long-standing passion project for the director. The film is described as a blend of heartbreaking and hilarious elements, with Park emphasizing its darkly absurd humor.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Uprising' premiered as the opening film at the 2023 Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), then hit Netflix on October 11, showcasing his storytelling prowess. The period-action film, praised for its gripping narrative and humor, further cemented Park’s global influence as both writer and producer.
"Park Chan-wook's 'Uprising' will open the Busan International Film Festival, showcasing his enduring influence and the film's cultural significance."
Park Chan-wook co-writes and produces the highly anticipated period-action film 'Uprising' for Netflix, reinforcing his global cinematic influence.
Park Chan-wook's Netflix film 'Uprising', which opened the 2023 Busan International Film Festival, highlights his dual role as writer and producer.
The 29th Busan International Film Festival opened with Park Chan-wook's co-produced film 'Uprising,' highlighting his industry influence and the film's praised narrative and humor.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, marking his fourth Palme d'Or competition entry. The romantic thriller, a stylistic shift from his violent earlier works, drew acclaim for its mature storytelling.
Park Chan-wook's romantic thriller 'Decision to Leave' premiered at the 75th Cannes Film Festival, marking his fourth Palme d'Or competition entry and a stylistic shift from his typically violent themes.
Park Chan-wook’s 2011 short 'Night Fishing' was revived at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival in 2024, showcasing his enduring influence and creative vision. The rescreening introduced his groundbreaking work to a fresh audience.
Park Chan-wook's 2011 short film 'Night Fishing' will be rescreened at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting his lasting impact and offering new audiences a chance to see his innovative work.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Old Boy' (2003) was showcased at the 24th Busan International Film Festival as one of the "10 Great Korean Films," celebrating Korean cinema’s 100-year history. The festival wrapped up on October 13, 2023, with this iconic film’s special screening.
The 24th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) showcases Park Chan-wook's 'Old Boy' in its special program celebrating 10 great Korean films, highlighting its lasting impact and Korean cinema's 100-year history.
The 24th Busan International Film Festival concluded with a special screening of Park Chan-wook's 'Old Boy' (2003).
Park Chan-wook has started filming 'I Can’t Help It', an adaptation of Donald E. Westlake’s 'The Ax', starring Lee Byung-hun. CJ ENM confirmed the production and the film’s high-profile cast, showcasing Park’s enduring industry impact.
Park Chan-wook's new film 'I Can't Help It,' based on Donald E. Westlake's novel 'The Ax,' has begun production, featuring Lee Byung-hun and backed by CJ ENM.
Park Chan-wook joined the Cannes Film Festival jury in 2023, reinforcing his global cinematic influence. He attended the screening of 'Okja' on May 20.
Park Chan-wook served as a jury member at the Cannes Film Festival screening of 'Okja.'
Park Chan-wook will direct the TV adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer-winning novel 'The Sympathizer', marking his U.S. television debut. Nguyen praised Park's creative vision, calling the collaboration exciting.
Park Chan-wook will direct the TV adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer-winning novel 'The Sympathizer', marking his major U.S. television debut and showcasing his global cinematic influence, with Nguyen praising his creative vision.
Park Chan-wook attended the 2022 Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles, highlighting his global influence. The event also honored CJ Group's Lee Mie-kyung, producer of 'Decision to Leave'.
Park Chan-wook attended the Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles, underscoring his global film influence, alongside CJ Group's Lee Mie-kyung, producer of his film 'Decision to Leave'.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Decision to Leave' premiered at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, earning acclaim for its mature romantic narrative and reinforcing his reputation as a master filmmaker. The film saw successful theatrical releases in France and South Korea, followed by screenings at TIFF, solidifying its global appeal and critical acclaim.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' is competing at the 75th Cannes Film Festival, marking his return after six years and positioning it as a potential Palme d'Or contender.
Park Chan-wook's acclaimed 'Decision to Leave' premiered at Cannes, earning praise for its visuals and storytelling while fueling Palme d'Or expectations.
Park Chan-wook returns to the Cannes Film Festival after six years with his competition entry 'Decision to Leave' competing for the Palme d'Or, expressing excitement about presenting his film and engaging with the festival, with critics praising his unique style as a potential winning factor.
Park Chan-wook's romantic thriller 'Decision to Leave' premiered in competition at the 75th Cannes Film Festival, vying for the Palme d'Or, marking his fourth Palme d'Or competition entry and a departure from his signature revenge themes.
The 75th Cannes Film Festival concluded, marking the end of the Palme d'Or competition featuring Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave'.
Park Chan-wook's critically anticipated film 'Decision to Leave,' invited to Cannes, is set for release in late June 2022.
Bac Films will release 'Decision to Leave' in France, marking its commercial debut in a major market following its success at Cannes, with other countries scheduling releases post-Cannes.
Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed film 'Decision to Leave,' praised for its restrained performances and stylish visuals, premieres in South Korea after its Cannes success, competing with other acclaimed June releases and marking a new direction in his career.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' secured third place at the South Korean box office with 33,000 viewers, demonstrating its sustained appeal against blockbuster competitors like 'Thor: Love and Thunder' and 'Top Gun: Maverick'.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' will screen in the Special Presentations section at the Toronto International Film Festival, reinforcing his global cinematic presence.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' was featured in the Special Presentations section of the Toronto International Film Festival. This further cemented Park's status as a globally recognized director. The film's inclusion underscores its critical and artistic significance.
The 15th Florence Korea Film Festival celebrated Park Chan-wook’s career with Italy’s first full retrospective of his 15 films, including 'The Handmaiden'. The showcase highlighted his cinematic brilliance and strengthened Korean-Italian cultural ties.
The 15th Florence Korea Film Festival launched with Italy's first comprehensive Park Chan-wook retrospective, promoting Korean cinema and cultural exchange.
Park Chan-wook's 2016 film 'The Handmaiden' was showcased at Cinema La Compagnia as part of the Florence Korea Film Festival's retrospective of his celebrated work.
Park Chan-wook's 2022 short film 'Life is But a Dream' showcased his innovative style by being shot entirely on an iPhone. Released on February 18 as part of Apple's 'Shot on iPhone' campaign, it highlighted his embrace of new filmmaking tech.
Park Chan-wook directed the iPhone-shot martial arts short film 'Life is But a Dream'.
Park Chan-wook's iPhone 13 Pro-shot short film 'Life is But a Dream' was released online for Apple's 'Shot on iPhone' campaign.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave', co-written by Jeong Seo-kyung and produced by CJ Group, showcases his mentorship—assistant director Kim Sung-sik later helmed 'Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman'. The film reinforces Park's reputation as a master of suspense, adding to his award-winning legacy. His continued collaboration with Jeong Seo-kyung delivers yet another critically acclaimed work, highlighting their long-standing creative partnership.
Park Chan-wook mentored assistant director Kim Sung-sik on 'Decision to Leave', who later directed 'Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman', highlighting Park's role in nurturing new talent.
Park Chan-wook collaborated with screenwriter Jeong Seo-kyung on the acclaimed 2022 film 'Decision to Leave', continuing their long-standing creative partnership that has produced several acclaimed films and reinforces his esteemed filmmaking reputation.
Park Chan-wook revealed plans to remake 'The Axe' at the 2021 Busan International Film Festival, adding another bold project to his acclaimed filmography. The announcement came during an open talk at the festival.
Park Chan-wook plans to remake 'The Axe,' as announced during a Busan International Film Festival talk.
The 2019 Geneva International Film Festival honored Park Chan-wook with a retrospective, screening 'The Handmaiden', another feature, and three shorts alongside his honorary award. This tribute highlighted his cinematic impact during the festival's 25th edition.
The Geneva International Film Festival honored Park Chan-wook by screening two of his full-length films, including 'The Handmaiden,' and three shorts during its 25th edition, highlighting his diverse work alongside his honorary award.
Park Chan-wook’s cult classic 'Old Boy' (2003) was featured at the 2019 Busan International Film Festival in a special showcase celebrating 100 years of Korean cinema, reaffirming its lasting impact on film history.
Park Chan-wook's 'Old Boy' (2003) is being shown at BIFF in a special program marking 100 years of Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' screened at Gothenburg’s Bio Roy theater from September 27-29, 2019, as part of South Korea’s guest-of-honor showcase at the Gothenburg Book Fair. The event boosted his international profile and strengthened cultural ties between South Korea and Sweden.
Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' screened at Gothenburg's Bio Roy theater during the Gothenburg Book Fair, boosting his international profile as part of South Korea's guest of honor cultural events.
Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' concludes its screening at Bio Roy theater in Gothenburg.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' was screened at the Gothenburg Book Fair, promoting South Korean cinema and cultural ties with Sweden.
Park Chan-wook directed the BBC's 'Little Drummer Girl' in 2018, proving his mastery of complex storytelling in international television. The series expanded his acclaimed film career and was well-received by audiences and critics alike.
Park Chan-wook successfully expanded his international reach by directing the well-received BBC drama 'The Little Drummer Girl', a spy thriller TV series, showcasing his versatility in adapting complex narratives across different mediums.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' premiered in North America on October 14, 2016, debuting in five theaters in Los Angeles and New York before expanding to over 100 screens two weeks later. The film's successful limited release and promotional tour boosted Park's global profile, with distributors optimistic about its wider rollout. Park hoped the film's themes would transcend its intricate dialogue, resonating with international audiences.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' debuted in North America after a strong LA promotional campaign, aiming to broaden his audience and boost his global film market reputation, with hopes that its message would transcend the film's complex dialogue.
Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' premieres in North America with limited screenings in Los Angeles and New York, with plans for wider release.
"The Handmaiden" is expanding to over 100 theaters across 25 North American cities following its successful limited release, with the distributor optimistic about its wider rollout.
On October 5, 2016, 'The Handmaiden' debuted in France, continuing its global rollout after a strong Cannes premiere and international sales. The release reinforced the film's growing acclaim.
"The Handmaiden" expands its global reach with a premiere in France following its Cannes success and export deals.
In October 2016, 'The Handmaiden' premiered at the London East Asia Film Festival, featuring a Park Chan-wook retrospective that highlighted his career and expanded his global acclaim. The screening solidified his standing as a master filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' was featured at the London East Asia Film Festival, highlighting his work for a European audience and celebrating his career with a retrospective.
On September 26, 2016, Park Chan-wook promoted 'The Handmaiden' in Los Angeles with a special preview, press conference alongside Kim Tae-ri, and meetings with American filmmakers ahead of its North American release. The event aimed to build excitement for the film's theatrical debut.
Director Park Chan-wook promoted 'The Handmaiden''s North American release by attending a preview, news conference, and filmmaker meetings in Los Angeles to build anticipation for its debut.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' premiered in the Special Presentations category at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival (September 8–18), showcasing its global appeal and commercial potential. The film's inclusion underscored Park's prominence in international cinema.
Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' was selected for the Toronto International Film Festival's Special Presentations, reaffirming his status as a globally acclaimed director.
The Toronto International Film Festival showcased Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden,' highlighting high-profile directors and commercially viable films for an international audience.
The Toronto International Film Festival concluded after showcasing Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden,' boosting its global exposure and potential for critical and commercial success.
Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' was showcased in the Special Presentations section of the Toronto International Film Festival. This highlights the film's international acclaim and Park's reputation as a leading filmmaker. The section is known for featuring landmark films from around the world.
On June 25, 2016, 'The Handmaiden' hit 4 million viewers, making it Park Chan-wook's top-grossing X-rated film and his second most-watched movie ever.
"The Handmaiden" became Park Chan-wook's highest-grossing X-rated film with over 4 million viewers, surpassing "Sympathy For Lady Vengeance" and ranking as his second most-viewed work after "Joint Security Area."
On 2016-06-24, 'The Handmaiden' premiered in Taiwan as part of its international rollout following record-breaking export deals.
"The Handmaiden will premiere in Taiwan as part of its international release after securing record-breaking export deals."
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' premiered at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, earning a five-minute standing ovation and setting a record for a Korean film with export deals in 176 countries. Despite its arthouse sensibilities, the film became Park’s highest-grossing X-rated release in South Korea, drawing 3.71 million viewers. Its global success cemented Park’s reputation as a leading force in international cinema.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' competes at the 69th Cannes Film Festival, breaking South Korean film records by securing export deals from 176 countries at Cannes, surpassing 'Snowpiercer' and showcasing its global popularity and enhancing his acclaim as a top filmmaker until the event concludes on May 22, 2016.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' earned a five-minute standing ovation at Cannes, showcasing his enduring global acclaim, the audience's eager anticipation, and the film's distinctive adaptation.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' secured distribution deals across nearly all of Europe, highlighting Korean cinema's global appeal and Park's talent, as announced by CJ E&M at Cannes.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' secured distribution deals in nearly all European countries, showcasing strong international appeal and nearing 'Snowpiercer's' sales record.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' set a Korean film record by selling to 175 countries, showcasing its global appeal despite cultural and linguistic specificity.
The 69th Cannes Film Festival concluded, featuring Park Chan-wook's film 'The Handmaiden' (an adaptation of 'Fingersmith'), potentially boosting his international reputation, though no specific competition results were mentioned.
Following its success at Cannes and record export deals, Park Chan-wook's internationally acclaimed film 'The Handmaiden' is set for its official domestic release/premiere in South Korea, attracting significant attention.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' slipped to No. 3 in the South Korean box office but maintained strong popularity, surpassing 3 million viewers and showcasing the director's enduring influence.
In its third week, 'The Handmaiden' ranked fourth at the South Korean box office with 284,685 viewers but became Park Chan-wook's highest-grossing X-rated film, surpassing 'Sympathy For Lady Vengeance' with 3.71 million total viewers.
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' (2016) competed at Cannes, earning global acclaim for its bold storytelling and visual flair while reaching 116 countries—a milestone for Korean cinema. The erotic thriller, starring breakout Kim Tae-ri, solidified Park’s mastery of the genre and marked his last Korean film before 'Decision to Leave'. Praised for its intricate plot and striking aesthetics, it further elevated his international reputation.
CJ Entertainment sold distribution rights for Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' in 116 countries, showcasing its global appeal, with Amazon Studios acquiring U.S. rights.
Park Chan-wook's thriller 'The Handmaiden' was selected for the 2016 Cannes Film Festival competition, marking his return since winning the Grand Prix in 2004 and the first Korean film in four years to compete.
At a Seoul press conference, Park Chan-wook promoted his film 'The Handmaiden', calling it his most distinctive and unique work with rich dialogue, subtle pleasures, distinct features like its long runtime and multiple protagonists, while expressing surprise at its Cannes main competition selection ahead of its premiere.
Park Chan-wook's 2016 film 'The Handmaiden' competed at the 69th Cannes Film Festival without winning awards but achieved notable commercial success through international exports, showcasing his global acclaim, with Na Hong-jin predicting a future top prize win for him.
Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed erotic thriller 'The Handmaiden' (co-written with Jeong Seo-kyeong) competed at Cannes in 2016, showcasing his directorial versatility, mastery of complex storytelling and visual artistry, and solidifying his prominence in global cinema before his later film 'Decision to Leave.'
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' premiered at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, breaking records as the most widely sold Korean film at the time (176+ countries). Starring Kim Min-hee and featuring Cho Jin-woong, the visually striking thriller drew mixed reviews but solidified Park’s global reputation, earning spots at top festivals like Toronto and Sitges.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' broke Bong Joon-ho's 'Snowpiercer's foreign sales record in 2016 by selling to more than 167 countries, highlighting Korean cinema's global competitiveness and rising appeal.
Park Chan-wook's visually striking erotic thriller 'The Handmaiden', featuring Cho Jin-woong in a praised supporting role, further solidified the director's reputation for provocative cinema, showcased the actor's versatility, and garnered mixed reviews at Cannes, highlighting its international exposure and critical reception.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' premiered at Cannes in 2016, gaining international acclaim and being showcased at other major festivals like Toronto and Sitges, while also setting a Korean film record by selling to 176 countries.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' premiered at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, earning critical acclaim and awards while boosting the careers of stars Kim Min-hee and newcomer Kim Tae-ri. The erotic thriller, praised for its bold storytelling and visuals and co-written by Jeong Seo-kyeong, became one of South Korea’s most successful international releases, solidifying Park’s reputation as a master filmmaker. It also screened at top festivals like Toronto and Sitges, further expanding his global influence.
Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed film 'The Handmaiden,' shot by cinematographer Chung Chung-hoon, premiered at the 69th Cannes Film Festival, elevating his career, leading to invitations at other major festivals like Toronto and Sitges, and further solidifying Park's international reputation while highlighting their successful collaboration.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' became France's fourth most-viewed South Korean film with 300,000 viewers, showcasing its international appeal.
Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed psychological period thriller 'The Handmaiden', celebrated for its craftsmanship and narrative innovation, launched Kim Tae-ri's stardom, stands as a notable entry in his filmography, and was honored at the 2023 Geneva festival.
Park Chan-wook's thriller 'The Handmaiden' launched Kim Tae-ri's career, showcasing Park's talent-spotting influence and her acclaimed debut performance that boosted her fame.
Park Chan-wook collaborated with Jeong Seo-kyeong on the film 'The Handmaiden', marking one of their earlier successful partnerships in filmmaking.
Park Chan-wook’s PARKing CHANce launched 'Seoul/Our Movie', inviting public video submissions about Seoul by November 9, 2013, to craft a collaborative film. The project showcases his knack for merging amateur creativity with professional filmmaking.
Park Chan-wook and his brother launched the 'Seoul/Our Movie' project, inviting public video submissions to create a collaborative film about Seoul, blending amateur footage with professional storytelling under their PARKing CHANce brand, with a preview event in January.
The 'Seoul/Our Movie' project, led by Park Chan-wook, invites public video submissions about Seoul to be incorporated into a professionally crafted film, showcasing his innovative and collaborative filmmaking approach.
Park Chan-wook's 2013 thriller 'Stoker' marked his Hollywood debut, gaining global attention and showcasing his collaboration with cinematographer Chung Chung-hoon. Its U.S. release on March 1, 2013, solidified Park's international influence and highlighted Korean talent in cinema.
"Park Chan-wook's Hollywood debut 'Stoker' premiered at Sundance to critical acclaim, solidifying his global filmmaking reputation."
"Park Chan-wook's Hollywood debut film 'Stoker' was released in South Korea, testing his cross-cultural appeal among his domestic audience."
Park Chan-wook's English-language film 'Stoker' will debut/premiere in the U.S. (and U.K. according to Point 1), advancing his global career and successful Hollywood transition, spotlighting Korean cinematographer Chung Chung-hoon, and generating significant buzz for its distinctive style.
Park Chan-wook expanded his acclaimed career into Hollywood with his English-language debut, the psychological thriller 'Stoker', starring Nicole Kidman and shot by cinematographer Chung Chung-hoon, reinforcing his global reputation as a versatile director.
In 2010, Park Chan-wook and his brother released 'Night Fishing', a groundbreaking short film shot entirely on an iPhone 4, which won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film's success demonstrated the potential of smartphone filmmaking and earned global recognition, with screenings at festivals like NYAFF and a 2024 Berlin retrospective. Its brief theatrical run in South Korea further cemented Park's innovative approach to cinema.
Park Chan-wook and his brother won the Berlin International Film Festival's Golden Bear for Best Short Film with 'Night Fishing', an iPhone 4-shot experimental film showcasing their innovative approach to filmmaking.
Park Chan-wook introduced his iPhone-shot short film 'Night Fishing' in Seoul, discussing its innovative production and creative challenges.
Park Chan-wook's iPhone-made film 'Night Fishing' had a four-day theatrical release in nine South Korean theaters, highlighting his innovative smartphone filmmaking approach to promote the experimental project.
The 61st Berlin International Film Festival opened, showcasing Park Chan-wook's co-directed short film 'Night Fishing (Paranmanjang)' in its short movies section.
The 61st Berlin International Film Festival featured Park Chan-wook's 'Night Fishing' in its short films section.
Park Chan-wook and his brother Park Chan-kyong filmed the award-winning short 'Night Fishing' on an iPhone 4, showcasing smartphones' professional filmmaking potential, and won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival for their iPhone-shot short film, which will be rescreened at the 2024 festival.
Park Chan-wook's short film 'Night Fishing' is screening at the 2012 NYAFF, showcasing his versatility beyond feature films.
The New York Asian Film Festival concluded after screening Park Chan-wook's 'Night Fishing,' an experimental collaboration with his brother.
In 2012, the Park brothers released 'Day Trip,' a short film under their PARKing CHANce project, highlighting their creative synergy and tech-driven storytelling. This work reinforced their reputation for innovative filmmaking.
The Park brothers' short film 'Day Trip' under PARKing CHANce showcased their creative synergy and innovative, tech-driven storytelling, expanding their distinctive portfolio.
Park Chan-wook’s 'JSA: Joint Security Area' won top honors at the 2011 KOFFIA in Sydney, proving its enduring impact and his global cinematic influence. The award reinforced his reputation as a leading figure in Korean film.
Park Chan-wook's 'JSA: Joint Security Area' was the highest-rated film at the 2011 KOFFIA in Sydney, reinforcing his global influence and prominence in Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook's 2008 film 'Thirst', starring Kim Ok-bin and Shin Ha-kyun, won the Cannes Jury Prize with its bold vampire twist, cementing his global acclaim despite underperforming domestically. Shot by frequent collaborator Chung Chung-hoon and co-written by Jeong Seo-kyung, the film highlighted Park’s genre mastery and Seoul Film Laboratory’s role in Korea’s analogue era. The project also launched Kim Ok-bin’s international career, while Song Kang-ho’s intense performance as a vampire priest showcased Park’s actor-driven approach.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Thirst', with cinematography by Chung Chung-hoon, reinforced Park's genre mastery and highlighted Chung's recurring collaboration with him.
Park Chan-wook's 'Thirst,' processed by the soon-to-close Seoul Film Laboratory, symbolizes the end of analogue film processing in South Korea and highlights his impact on Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed 2009 vampire film 'Thirst', starring Kim Ok-bin, Shin Ha-kyun, and Song Kang-ho as a vampire priest, offers a unique take on the genre and highlights the director's ability to draw profound emotional performances, reinforcing his global acclaim. Kim Ok-bin and Shin Ha-kyun later reunited in 'The Villainess'.
Park Chan-wook's 2009 film 'Thirst', starring Song Kang-ho, premiered and contributed to both their reputations—Song's for Cannes-recognized performances and Park's as a top-tier director, showcasing Park's influence on Song's acclaimed career.
In 2006, Park Chan-wook joined the Venice Film Festival jury, showcasing his global influence and the rising acclaim for Korean cinema. His role underscored the industry's growing international recognition.
Park Chan-wook's role as a juror at the Venice Film Festival highlights his rising global influence and the growing recognition of Korean filmmakers internationally.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Sympathy for Lady Vengeance' (2005), the brutal finale of his Vengeance Trilogy, broke X-rated box office records with 3.65 million viewers—later surpassed by 'The Handmaiden' (2016). Star Lee Young-ae stepped back from acting post-release, while the film’s dark intensity inspired actors like Han Hyo-joo and cemented Park’s auteur status alongside 'Oldboy'. The film also competed at the Venice International Film Festival, marking Park's first time in the competition and further establishing his international reputation as a leading filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook's 2005 crime thriller 'Sympathy for Lady Vengeance,' starring Lee Young-ae as a vengeful mother in her final film role before her 2019 comeback, is known for its extreme violence, dark themes, and stylized approach, forming part of his acclaimed Vengeance Trilogy and often referenced to contextualize similar brutality in other films like Kim Jee-woon's 'I Saw the Devil.'
In 2005, Park Chan-wook directed 'Sympathy for Lady Vengeance' (also known as 'Lady Vengeance'), starring Lee Young-ae in her final role before her hiatus for marriage and childbirth. The film, part of his neo-noir revenge trilogy, solidified his auteur status in Korean cinema and boosted Choi Min-sik's career alongside 'Oldboy'.
Park Chan-wook's 'Sympathy For Lady Vengeance' set an X-rated film record with 3.65 million viewers, later surpassed by 'The Handmaiden' in 2016, but remains a standout in his career.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' surpassed his X-rated record previously held by 'Sympathy For Lady Vengeance,' which had 3.65 million viewers.
Park Chan-wook's thriller 'Lady Vengeance' competed at the Venice International Film Festival, marking his first time in the competition. This established his international reputation as a leading filmmaker. The film was part of his acclaimed Vengeance Trilogy.
Park Chan-wook announced plans to remake Costa Gavras' 2005 French thriller 'The Axe', bringing his signature style to this cross-cultural project.
Park Chan-wook plans to remake Costa Gavras' French film 'The Axe'.
Park Chan-wook's 2003 thriller 'Oldboy' became a landmark in Korean cinema, winning the Grand Prix at Cannes and propelling Korean films into global spotlight. Its bold visuals, intense storytelling, and breakthrough performances—including Choi Min-sik and Yoo Ji-tae—cemented Park’s reputation as a master filmmaker. Now celebrated in BIFF’s 100th-anniversary tribute, the film remains a defining work in psychological thrillers.
Park Chan-wook directed the thriller 'Old Boy' in 2003, starring Yoo Ji-tae, which gained Hollywood's attention for Korean cinema through its unique aesthetics, intense narrative, and stylistic direction. The film boosted global interest in Korean films, contributed to the global recognition of both Park and Yoo, solidified Park's reputation as a leading figure in Korean cinema, and is a landmark in his career.
Park Chan-wook's acclaimed thriller 'Old Boy', a masterpiece in Korean cinema, is being screened at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) as part of Korean cinema's 100th-anniversary celebration, showcasing its enduring legacy and his influential contributions to the industry.
Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy' won the Grand Prix at Cannes, cementing his reputation for unique cinematography and intense action, influencing later works like Disney+'s 'Obi-Wan Kenobi'.
In 2003, Park Chan-wook directed 'Oldboy', a groundbreaking neo-noir thriller starring Choi Min-sik that propelled him to international fame. The film became a cornerstone of Korean cinema and solidified Park's reputation as a visionary director.
Park Chan-wook's acclaimed neo-noir film 'Oldboy', starring Choi Min-sik, cemented his status as a leading Korean auteur and became a pivotal part of his revenge trilogy.
Park Chan-wook's 2002 thriller 'Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance' launched his acclaimed revenge trilogy with its dark, gripping story. Now, its upcoming Hollywood remake proves the film's lasting influence.
Park Chan-wook's dark thriller 'Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance', the first film in his revenge trilogy, cemented his directorial acclaim and remains influential, as evidenced by its upcoming Hollywood remake.
Bae Doona played a callous apartment manager in Park Chan-wook’s 2000 dark comedy 'Barking Dogs Never Bite', one of their earliest collaborations. The film’s reception remains unspecified.
Bae Doona played an insensitive apartment worker in Park Chan-wook's early film 'Barking Dogs Never Bite', marking their initial collaboration.
Park Chan-wook's 2000 thriller 'Joint Security Area' became his most-watched film (5.8 million viewers) until 'The Handmaiden' in 2016, cementing his status in Korean cinema and launching Song Kang-ho's career. The film, which competed at the 2001 Berlin Film Festival, was a groundbreaking take on inter-Korean tensions. It also marked Park's collaboration with mentor Kim Sang-man, who served as art director.
Park Chan-wook's 'Joint Security Area' (2000) became his most-viewed film until 2016, solidifying his reputation as a top South Korean director, setting a benchmark for his commercial success, and serving as a significant early South Korean thriller addressing inter-Korean tensions, marking a notable entry in his filmography.
Park Chan-wook mentored director Kim Sang-man, who was the art director on 'JSA.'
Park Chan-wook's 1992 debut, 'The Moon Is What the Sun Dreams Of', flopped but launched his career, paving the way for later hits like 'Joint Security Area'.
Park Chan-wook's unsuccessful debut film, 'The Moon Is What the Sun Dreams Of', preceded his later success with 'Joint Security Area'.
The 83rd Golden Globe Awards ceremony was broadcast live on January 11, 2026, where Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' was among the nominations. The event marked the culmination of the awards process for his critically acclaimed film, though the specific outcome for his nomination was not detailed in the coverage.
The 83rd Golden Globe Awards ceremony was broadcast live on January 11, 2026, where Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' was nominated. This event represented the culmination of the awards process for his film, though the article did not specify the outcome of his nomination.
Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' received three Golden Globe nominations on December 8, 2025, including Best Motion Picture in the Musical/Comedy and Non-English Language categories, and a Best Actor nomination for Lee Byung-hun, marking significant international recognition for the director's work.
Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' was officially announced as receiving three Golden Globe nominations on December 8, 2025, including Best Motion Picture in the Musical/Comedy and Non-English Language categories, and a Best Actor nomination for Lee Byung-hun, highlighting its international acclaim.
Park Chan-wook won Best Director at the 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards in 2025 for 'No Other Choice,' marking his fourth win in this category. The film also secured Best Film, highlighting his consistent acclaim and the project's overall success in Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook won Best Director at the 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards for his film 'No Other Choice,' his fourth win in the category, while the film also took Best Film, underscoring his sustained excellence in Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook won the Best Director award at the Sitges Film Festival on October 20, 2025, for his film 'No Other Choice', highlighting his enduring influence in international genre filmmaking. This accolade adds to the film's series of international successes, including prior wins at festivals like TIFF.
Park Chan-wook won the Best Director award at the Sitges Film Festival for his film 'No Other Choice'. This recognition highlights his continued success and influence in international cinema, particularly in genre filmmaking. The award is part of a series of international accolades for the film, following wins at other festivals like TIFF.
Park Chan-wook won the International People's Choice Award at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival for his film 'No Other Choice', voted by audiences. This accolade underscores the film's widespread appeal and reinforces his global standing as a celebrated director.
Park Chan-wook accepted the International People's Choice Award at TIFF for his film 'No Other Choice'. This marks a significant international recognition for his work and reinforces his status as a leading filmmaker. The award, voted by audiences, highlights the film's popularity and critical success outside North America.
On September 3, 2025, Park Chan-wook's 'No Other Choice' was selected as South Korea's official submission for the Academy Awards, marking a significant career milestone. The Korean Film Council chose it for its cinematic excellence, relevant themes, strong performances, and positive feedback from North American distributors.
Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' was officially selected by the Korean Film Council as South Korea's submission for the Academy Awards, based on its cinematic quality, themes, performances, and distributor evaluations.
Park Chan-wook's 'No Other Choice' received a lengthy standing ovation at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival, boosting anticipation for a potential Golden Lion win. The strong reception signaled critical and audience acclaim ahead of the awards announcement.
Park Chan-wook's film 'No Other Choice' received a lengthy standing ovation after its screening at the Venice International Film Festival. This heightened anticipation for the film's potential to win the festival's top prize, the Golden Lion. The ovation occurred the day before the award announcement, signaling strong audience and critical reception.
Park Chan-wook and Shin Cheol won Best Screenplay at the 2025 Baeksang Awards for 'Uprising', showcasing Park’s talent beyond directing. The win solidifies his status as a multifaceted creative force.
Park Chan-wook won the best screenplay award at the 61st Baeksang Awards for co-writing 'Uprising,' highlighting his success beyond directing.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Sympathizer' won the Golden Bird Award at the 2024 Seoul International Drama Awards, adding to his acclaimed legacy. The ceremony took place at KBS Hall on September 25.
The Seoul International Drama Awards will present Park Chan-wook's 'The Sympathizer' with the Golden Bird Award at KBS Hall.
Park Chan-wook claimed Best Director at Cannes 2024 for 'Decision to Leave', his third win at the festival. The romantic thriller showcases a shift from his signature violent style, further cementing his global acclaim.
Park Chan-wook won Best Director at Cannes for his romantic thriller 'Decision to Leave,' earning his third major award and reinforcing his global acclaim.
Park Chan-wook's 'Little Drummer Girl' won Best Mini Series at the 12th Seoul International Drama Awards, adding to his acclaimed career. The British thriller triumphed at the ceremony on August 28, 2023.
Park Chan-wook's 'Little Drummer Girl' won Best Mini Series at the 12th Seoul International Drama Awards.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Decision to Leave' swept the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards on April 28, 2023, winning Best Film and earning Park Best Director—cementing his status as a visionary filmmaker. The double victory underscores the film’s critical acclaim.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' won the grand prize and best director award at the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards, solidifying his reputation as a leading filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Decision to Leave' is South Korea’s official entry for Best International Feature at the 94th Oscars, bolstered by its Golden Globes momentum. A win would mark a historic career milestone for the acclaimed director.
"Decision to Leave," South Korea's official entry for best international feature at the 94th Academy Awards, could earn Park Chan-wook Oscar recognition, with its Golden Globes performance potentially influencing its Academy Awards chances and marking a historic Oscar win for the director.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' earned BAFTA nominations for Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film, cementing its global recognition. The awards ceremony will take place on February 19, 2023.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' earned BAFTA nominations for Best Director and Best Film Not in the English Language, showcasing its critical acclaim ahead of the February 19, 2023 ceremony.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' earned a Best Foreign Film nomination at the 2022 Critics Choice Awards, though it lost to 'RRR' in January 2023. The nod reaffirmed Park's global cinematic influence.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' earned a Critics Choice Award nomination for best foreign film, reinforcing his global acclaim, with winners announced on January 15.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' was nominated for best foreign film at the Critics Choice Awards but lost to 'RRR,' underscoring his ongoing global acclaim.
Park Chan-wook's acclaimed film 'Decision to Leave' earned a Best Non-English Language Film nomination at the 2023 Golden Globes, prompting his trip to Los Angeles for the ceremony. While there, he’ll also work on his upcoming HBO series 'The Sympathizer', with the Globes potentially boosting the film’s Oscar chances.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Non-English Language Film, reinforcing his global acclaim ahead of the January ceremony.
Park Chan-wook traveled to Los Angeles for the Golden Globe Awards to promote "Decision to Leave" and work on his HBO series "The Sympathizer."
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' nomination at the 80th Golden Globe Awards underscores his global cinematic impact and potential to further elevate his international profile.
The 80th Golden Globe Awards could boost Park Chan-wook's international acclaim and Oscar chances, with 'Decision to Leave' nominated for best non-English language film.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' triumphed at the 2022 Daejong Film Awards, taking home Best Picture and Best Screenplay. The wins reinforced the film's reputation as a critical darling.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' won Best Picture and Best Screenplay at the Daejong Film Awards, further cementing its critical acclaim.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' dominated the 2022 Blue Dragon Awards, taking home six prizes—including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. The acclaimed thriller solidified its status as a cinematic standout.
Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' won six Blue Dragon Awards, including best film, director, and screenplay.
Park Chan-wook won Best Director at Cannes 2022 for 'Decision to Leave', a romantic thriller praised for its emotional depth and suspense. The film, South Korea’s Oscar entry, solidified his global reputation and earned a Golden Globe nod. His next project, 'No Other Choice', marks his return since the win, celebrated even by South Korea’s president.
Park Chan-wook won Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival for 'Decision to Leave', a film acclaimed for its shift toward romantic emotion and sophisticated blend of love and danger. This achievement solidified his reputation as a leading figure in global cinema. 'No Other Choice' is his first film since this award-winning project.
"Decision to Leave" was selected as South Korea's submission for the best international feature film at the 94th Oscars.
Park Chan-wook won his third Cannes Best Director award for 'Decision to Leave' in May 2022, solidifying his global acclaim and influence in cinema, while also securing South Korea's submission for the 2023 Oscars.
Park Chan-wook won Best Director at the 75th Cannes Film Festival for 'Decision to Leave,' his third Cannes award, cementing his status as a global auteur. In his speech, he acknowledged his actors and the pandemic's impact on cinema.
Park Chan-wook returned to South Korea to a warm reception after securing his third Cannes award, Best Director for 'Decision to Leave,' while humorously wishing for his actors to win and expressing concerns about being typecast as an arthouse filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook celebrated his Cannes Best Director win at a dinner with President Yoon Suk-yeol, highlighting his global cinematic influence and the government's support for the arts.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Decision to Leave' was selected as South Korea's Oscar entry, underscoring his continued global acclaim.
Park Chan-wook won the Film and Beyond Award at the 2019 Geneva International Film Festival for his groundbreaking work, including 'The Handmaiden' and the 'Vengeance Trilogy'. Joking that it marked a mid-career milestone, he reaffirmed his dedication to filmmaking.
Park Chan-wook won the Film and Beyond Award at the Geneva International Film Festival for his influential, cross-disciplinary work, which he humorously called a mid-career milestone.
In 2019, Park Chan-wook joked that 2045 might mark the end of his directing career during an acceptance speech, showcasing his enduring passion for filmmaking. His lighthearted comment reflected both his dedication and optimism about his cinematic future.
Park Chan-wook humorously noted in his acceptance speech that 2045 might mark the end of his directing career, highlighting his enduring dedication to filmmaking and playful perspective on his cinematic future.
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' won Best Film Not in the English Language at the 2018 BAFTAs, becoming the first South Korean film to do so. This milestone highlighted Park’s global influence and paved the way for later successes like 'Parasite'. The win celebrated his signature blend of erotic and psychological thriller storytelling.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won the BAFTA for Best Non-English Language Film in 2018, cementing his reputation as a master of erotic psychological thrillers on the international stage, highlighting his global acclaim and foreshadowing 'Parasite's' later success.
"The 2018 BAFTA Awards nominated 'The Handmaiden' for Best Film Not in the English Language, highlighting its global appeal and director Park Chan-wook's international influence."
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won the 2018 BAFTA for Best Non-English Film, earning significant international acclaim among five nominees.
Park Chan-wook joined the 2017 Cannes Film Festival jury, where Bong Joon-ho’s 'Okja' competed, highlighting their shared impact on global cinema. His role reinforced Korea’s growing influence in international film and marked a key career milestone.
Park Chan-wook's role as a Cannes Film Festival jury member in 2017 underscored his global cinematic influence and the growing international recognition of Korean cinema, continuing the tradition of Korean artists participating in the prestigious festival.
Park Chan-wook was announced as a jury member for the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' swept four awards at the 2017 Asian Film Awards, including Best Supporting Actress and Best Newcomer. The wins cemented the film’s acclaim and Park’s reputation as a master filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won four awards at the 11th Asian Film Awards, including best supporting actress, best newcomer, best costume design, and best production design.
Park Chan-wook won Best Film Industry Figure at the 2017 KOFRA Film Awards in Seoul, honoring his influence on Korean cinema. The event, hosted by the Korea Film Reporters Association, gathered media representatives from 50 outlets.
Park Chan-wook won best film industry figure at the KOFRA Film Awards in Seoul, recognizing his major influence on Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won the Grand Audience Award at the Sitges Film Festival in 2016 and again in 2017, cementing his global acclaim for its complex narrative and reinforcing his status as a filmmaker who captivates international audiences.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won the Grand Audience Award at the 49th Sitges Film Festival, reinforcing his global acclaim as a top international filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook received the Grand Audience Award at the Sitges Film Festival for his erotic thriller 'The Handmaiden', reinforcing his ability to captivate international audiences and cementing his legacy of success at the festival.
Park Chan-wook broke barriers in 2017 as the first Korean presenter at Cannes' closing ceremony, showcasing Korean cinema's global rise. Lee Byung-hun followed in 2021, reinforcing Korea's growing influence in international film.
Park Chan-wook made history as the first Korean presenter at Cannes' closing ceremony, marking a significant moment for Korean cinema's global recognition, later followed by Lee Byung-hun in 2021.
In December 2016, 'The Handmaiden' won Best Foreign Picture and Best Production Design from the LAFCA, highlighting its artistic brilliance and boosting Park Chan-wook’s global reputation. These wins set the stage for its later BAFTA success.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won Best Foreign Picture and Best Production Design from the Los Angeles Film Critics Association (LAFCA) in December 2016, showcasing its artistic excellence, cementing his directorial acclaim, and boosting its recognition ahead of its BAFTA win.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won Best Foreign Picture and Best Production Design at the LAFCA Awards, highlighting his global impact and filmmaking artistry.
Kim Min-hee took home Best Actress at the 2016 Blue Dragon Awards for her standout role in Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden', cementing the film’s critical success and Park’s skill for drawing powerful performances.
Kim Min-hee won best actress at the 2016 Blue Dragon Awards for her role in 'The Handmaiden'.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won Best Cinematography at the 36th Korean Film Critics Association Awards in 2016, showcasing its stunning visuals and adding to the director's acclaimed legacy.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' won best cinematography at the 36th Korean Film Critics Association Awards, further showcasing the film's visual brilliance and the director's acclaimed work.
In 2016, Park Chan-wook was invited to join the U.S. Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognizing his global impact through films like 'Oldboy' and 'Stoker'. This honor highlighted both his stature and the rising influence of Korean cinema worldwide.
Park Chan-wook was admitted to the U.S. Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, becoming one of the few South Korean filmmakers to receive this prestigious recognition.
Park Chan-wook was invited to join AMPAS, highlighting his global cinematic impact and the Academy's recognition of Korean filmmakers' growing influence.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' competed at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, winning the Vulcan Award for its technical artistry, thanks to art director Ryu Seong-hie. The honor further cemented Park's legacy for visually stunning, masterfully crafted films.
Park Chan-wook's 'The Handmaiden' didn't win at Cannes but earned the Vulcan Award for technical achievements, further cementing his reputation for visually stunning and technically masterful filmmaking.
Ryu Seong-hie, art director of 'The Handmaiden,' won the Vulcan Award at the 69th Cannes Film Festival.
Park Chan-wook’s 'The Handmaiden' made history as the first Korean film to win Best Film Not in the English Language at the 2018 BAFTAs. Praised for its bold eroticism and rich historical setting, the victory cemented Park’s global reputation.
Park Chan-wook's erotic historical thriller 'The Handmaiden' became the first Korean film to win Best Film Not in the English Language at the 2018 BAFTA Awards.
In 2011, Park Chan-wook and Park Chan-kyong won the Berlin International Film Festival’s Golden Bear for Best Short Film with 'Night Fishing', shot entirely on an iPhone. The award underscored their creative collaboration and the groundbreaking potential of smartphones in professional filmmaking.
In 2011, Park Chan-wook and his brother Park Chan-kyong co-directed the short film 'Night Fishing', which won the Golden Bear for Best Short Film at the 61st Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting his versatility, enduring influence in filmmaking, and reinforcing his international acclaim and status in Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook's short film 'Night Fishing,' co-directed with Park Chan-kyong, won the Berlin Film Festival's Golden Bear for best short film, highlighting his storytelling versatility and innovation across formats.
Park Chan-wook and Chan-kyong won the Golden Bear for best short film at the 61st Berlin International Film Festival with 'Night Fishing (Paranmanjang)'.
At UNESCO's 2010 arts education conference in Seoul, director Park Chan-wook received high praise from UNESCO chief Irina Bokova, underscoring his global cinematic influence. The recognition aligned with Korea's 60th anniversary in UNESCO.
UNESCO director-general Irina Bokova praised Park Chan-wook at a Seoul conference, highlighting his global influence in film and Korea's cultural achievements during its 60th UNESCO anniversary.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Thirst' won the Silver Raven at the 2010 Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival, adding to its acclaim after Cannes and a 'Time' top-10 nod. The award reinforced Park’s global standing as a visionary filmmaker.
Park Chan-wook's 'Thirst' won the Silver Raven at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival, further cementing his global acclaim after earlier Cannes and Time magazine honors.
Park Chan-wook's 'Thirst' won Best Visual Effects at the 2010 Asian Film Awards, cementing his status as a master of South Korean cinema. The film’s multiple nominations further highlighted his global acclaim.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Thirst' received multiple nominations at the fourth Asian Film Awards in Hong Kong, underscoring his international acclaim, though the results remain unspecified.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Thirst' won best visual effects at the fourth Asian Film Awards, reinforcing his prominence in South Korean cinema.
Song Gang-ho took home the Best Actor award for his performance in Park Chan-wook's 'Thirst' at the Korea Film Reporters Association's first awards ceremony in 2010. The win celebrated both his standout role and the film's critical success.
Song Gang-ho won Best Actor at the Korea Film Reporters Association's inaugural ceremony for his role in Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed 2009 film 'Thirst', which highlighted outstanding achievements in Korean cinema that year.
Park Chan-wook won the Cannes Jury Prize in 2009 for his horror film 'Thirst', starring Song Kang-ho, further cementing his reputation as a visionary director. The film’s bold take on vampire lore showcased Park’s creativity, while Song—who later won Best Actor at Cannes in 2022—expressed pride in their collaboration.
Park Chan-wook won the Cannes Jury Prize for his horror film 'Thirst' in 2009, starring Song Kang-ho, showcasing his directorial versatility, cementing his status as a Cannes favorite, and highlighting their successful collaboration and Song's history with award-winning films.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Thirst' won the Cannes Jury Prize, cementing his reputation as a genre master for his unique blend of horror and drama.
Park Chan-wook’s 'Thirst' won the 2009 Cannes Jury Prize, boosting his global acclaim and showcasing South Korean cinema. Despite its festival success, the film drew only 2.2 million domestic viewers, highlighting the gap between critical and commercial appeal. Praised for its bold reimagining of vampire horror, the film starred Song Kang-ho and cemented Park’s reputation as a genre-defying auteur.
Park Chan-wook solidified his celebrated status at Cannes by winning the jury prize for 'Thirst,' enhancing his influence in the film industry, though the film underperformed commercially in South Korea, highlighting the gap between festival success and box office appeal.
Park Chan-wook's 'Sympathy for Lady Vengeance' competed for the Golden Lion at the 2005 Venice Film Festival, the last Korean film in contention until 2012. This marked a key moment for Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook's 'Sympathy for Lady Vengeance' marked a milestone for Korean cinema as the last film to compete for Venice's Golden Lion until 2012.
Park Chan-wook's 'Old Boy' won the Grand Prize at Cannes in 2004, propelling him to global acclaim for its gripping, psychological storytelling. The victory also spotlighted Korean cinema on the world stage.
Park Chan-wook's 'Old Boy' won the Grand Prize at Cannes, solidifying his reputation as a master of intense, psychologically complex cinema and boosting his international acclaim while spotlighting South Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook won the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2004 for 'Oldboy', boosting his global reputation and earning him Korea’s Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit. Despite critical acclaim, the film drew modest domestic audiences, underscoring the divide between artistic recognition and commercial success. His achievement further spotlighted Korean cinema in Europe.
Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed 'Oldboy' won the Grand Prix (second-highest honor) at Cannes in 2004, cementing his status as a major figure in international cinema, though it underperformed commercially in South Korea, illustrating the divide between artistic recognition and box office success.
Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy' winning the Grand Prize Jury Award at Cannes elevated his global reputation and spotlighted South Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy' won the 2003 Cannes Grand Prix, propelling him and stars Choi Min-sik and Kang Hye-jung to global fame and spotlighting Korean cinema. Though later eclipsed by 'Parasite'’s 2019 Palme d’Or, 'Oldboy' became a cult classic and paved the way for Korean films on the world stage.
Park Chan-wook's acclaimed film 'Oldboy', starring Kang Hye-jung, won the Grand Prix at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival, boosting both their careers and cementing his status in Korean cinema, a milestone later surpassed by 'Parasite's' historic Palme d'Or victory in 2019.
Park Chan-wook's Oldboy, starring Choi Min-sik, won the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2003, elevating both the director and star to international acclaim while also earning global recognition for Korean cinema through its gripping story and artistic brilliance.
Park Chan-wook's Cannes Grand Jury Prize (Grand Prix) win for 'Oldboy' in 2004 solidified his global acclaim, cemented his status as a master filmmaker, marked a breakthrough for South Korean cinema, and served as a highlight of his renowned vengeance trilogy.
Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy' won Best Film at the Sitges Film Festival in 2004, cementing his reputation as a master of intense, genre-bending cinema and marking a key career milestone. This victory contributed to his ongoing recognition at the Spanish festival.
Park Chan-wook's film 'Oldboy' won Best Film at the Sitges Film Festival. This victory established his reputation as a master of intense, genre-bending cinema and marked a significant milestone in his career. It contributed to his frequent recognition at the Spanish festival over the years.