The 14th Operation Kino, organized in collaboration with the Jung-gu District of Busan Metropolitan City and Blackmagic Design, received a diverse array of submissions, generating significant anticipation. This year, the jury took particular notice of the many projects that explored personal and social issues through characters from various professions and backgrounds. During the anonymous pitching process, the jury assessed the authenticity and feasibility of the projects through rapid, high-pressure questioning, offering us a glimpse into the unique worlds each filmmaker seeks to capture. While several submissions presented strong concepts, some lacked a distinct personal perspective, which was regrettable.

Given the high caliber of entries, making a final selection was no easy task. The jury evaluated each proposal based on completeness, originality, and production feasibility, and encourages the selected teams to further refine the aspects discussed during the review process. Even among the unselected projects, many demonstrated great potential, and with further development, they could evolve into outstanding works. The jury hopes that this pitching experience has been a valuable opportunity for growth for all participants. The Busan International Short Film Festival extends its deepest gratitude and encouragement to all the teams who submitted their projects.