Park Chan-wook, President of the Jury of the 79th Festival de Cannes
Park Chan-wook © Lee Seung-hee
Park Chan-wook, an internationally acclaimed South Korean director, screenwriter, and producer, will serve as President of the Jury at the 79th Festival de Cannes—the first Korean filmmaker to hold this role. On May 23, 2026, he and his jury will award the Palme d’Or.
Known for his bold, visually striking, and provocative cinema, Park blends intense storytelling with strong social themes, immersing audiences in dark and complex worlds. His major works include Old Boy (Grand Prix 2004), Thirst (Jury Prize 2009), The Handmaiden, and Decision to Leave (Best Director 2022), confirming his lasting connection with Cannes.
Often compared to directors like Tarantino and Hitchcock, Park draws inspiration from masters such as Kurosawa and Bergman. Recurring themes in his films include obsession and revenge, notably explored in his famous trilogy (Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, Old Boy, Lady Vengeance).
His presidency also highlights the global success of Korean cinema, crowned by Bong Joon-ho’s Palme d’Or in 2019. For Park, cinema remains a powerful collective experience that brings people together and fosters shared emotion and solidarity.
