Busan Chief Plots New Platform Amid Funding Warnings
The Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) is poised for a significant evolution, moving beyond its celebrated four-day run in Busan to establish itself as a dynamic, year-round platform. This vision is being championed by industry figures who believe that the market’s potential deserves continuous cultivation rather than being confined to a single annual event.
Director Ellen Y.D. Kim has voiced this perspective, arguing that the scope and impact of the market necessitate a permanent structure. She points out a growing disparity: the ambition of the market has expanded far faster than the public funding allocated to it. To bridge this gap and ensure sustained growth, Kim proposes a transformative concept: ACFM 365.
ACFM 365 is envisioned as a comprehensive, permanent digital ecosystem. It would function as more than just an annual showcase; it would serve as a living database and sophisticated matchmaking tool connecting creators, distributors, and investors across the entire Asian cinematic landscape.
This year-round structure would provide an essential foundation for the industry, allowing for continuous engagement and discovery throughout the year, rather than relying on concentrated, episodic events. By operating continuously, the platform would facilitate ongoing dialogue and provide the necessary infrastructure for sustainable development of Asian content.
The shift to an all-year model acknowledges the relentless pace of creative production and the need for continuous opportunities. It transforms the ACFM from a prestigious event into an indispensable operational hub—a true, permanent stage for Asian storytelling. This evolution promises to unlock new avenues for collaboration and ensure that the vibrancy of Asian cinema is supported consistently, long after the closing of the annual market.
Credit
