The 30th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN, Festival Director Shin Chul) is set to embark on its grand journey with the opening ceremony on Thursday, July 2.

Following last year, director Song Seung-hwan will serve as the general director for this year's opening ceremony. He plans to present an innovative and moving stage centered on the theme of the coexistence of humanoid robots and humans. Veteran actor Kang Seok-woo, known for his profound acting skills across both film and television, will host the ceremony, marking the start of the festival with grace and sophistication.

The 30th BIFAN opening ceremony will be graced by world-renowned film stars, starting with director Yuen Woo-ping of the opening film, Warriors of Future. Notably, to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the festival will hold special awards to solidify BIFAN's international status.

First, actor Josie Ho, who has showcased unparalleled acting and individuality in the genre film scene, will be awarded the Fantastic Icon Award, recognizing her as a figure who best represents the experimental values and boldness that BIFAN pursues. Following this, actor Fan Bingbing, who has captivated the world with her iconic presence and star power, will receive the Global Icon Award. Finally, Isabelle Huppert, who has had a profound influence on world cinema, will be presented with the Achievement Award as a gesture of respect and honor. The award recipients—Josie Ho, Fan Bingbing, and Isabelle Huppert—are scheduled to attend the red carpet and the opening ceremony to meet with Bucheon citizens and audiences.

This year's red carpet will be attended by a large number of directors and actors representing the Korean film industry. Confirmed attendees include director Lee Joon-ik of The King and the Clown, director Lee Sang-min of Salmokji, director Kwak Kyung-taek of My Dad is a Zombie along with actors Yoo Jae-myung, Oh Dal-su, and Lee Si-eon, director Kim Min-ha of Student Teacher, and director Chung Ji-young of My Name along with actor Yeom Hye-ran, all of whom are expected to add to the excitement.

The red carpet for the 30th BIFAN opening ceremony will take place at the Bucheon City Hall Plaza starting at 17:20, followed by the opening ceremony at the Bucheon Art Center Concert Hall at 19:00. The live broadcast of the opening ceremony, including the red carpet, will be available via Naver Chzzk.

This year's BIFAN will be held throughout Bucheon for 11 days, starting with the opening ceremony on July 2 and running until July 12.