Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy (BAFA) presents a newly restructured program starting in 2026.

Sponsored by CHANEL, this workshop provides comprehensive support for emerging Asian directors who dream of international collaboration to develop their first feature-length fiction film. The 24 selected filmmakers from across Asia will undergo a professional curriculum, including short film production, mentoring, and masterclasses.

This holistic journey—from script development to the production of a Pilot Short (Proof-of-Concept) in Busan—will culminate in an official screening during the Busan International Film Festival.

1. Eligibility

• Nationality : Citizens of Asian countries (including Korea) or overseas Koreans
• Age : 18 years of age or older
• Experience : Must have participated in at least two short films in one of the following roles: Directing, Producing, Cinematography, Production Design, Editing, or Sound
• Special Requirements for Directing Applicants
  • Must be a director currently developing their first feature-length fiction film
  • * Applicants with previous experience directing feature-length documentaries or experimental films are also eligible to apply.
  • Project Content : Projects must clearly include Asian elements (story, theme, characters, or setting)
  • Project Type : Feature-length fiction films of any genre (60 minutes or longer, including independent, art, or genre films)
  • Restrictions : Applications are not allowed if the main screenwriter and director are different, or in the case of co-direction
  • Originality : The script must be an original work 100% owned by the applicant
  • * Projects based on original source material or real-life events are also eligible.
• Note : Alumni who have previously completed BAFA / AFA are not eligible to apply

2. Key Dates

• Application Deadline : May 1, 2026, 18:00 (KST)
• Announcement of Selection : Late June 2026
• 1st Script Development Lab (Online) : Mid-July 2026
• 2nd Script Development Lab (Online) : Mid-August 2026
• 3rd Pilot Short Production Lab (In-person) : September 26 – October 15, 2026 (Busan)
• * Participants will produce a Pilot Short film (max. 5 minutes) during this period

3. Program Benefits

• Automatic eligibility for the CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy Awards
• Travel & Stay : Round-trip airfare within Asia (domestic travel for those based in Korea), accommodation, meals, and provision of professional production equipment during the short film production period
• Education & Mentorship : Step-by-step script development and technical support from experienced creative advisors
• Networking : Exclusive opportunities to participate in BIFF-linked programs

4. How to Apply

• Applications must be submitted online via the official BAFA website (All documents must be in English)
• Additional Documents for Directing Applicants
  • Project Information : Title, budget, and production plan
  • Project Materials : Logline (max. 300 characters), Synopsis (max. 1,200 characters), Treatment (5-10 pages) or Script Draft (PDF format, Arial 11pt)
  • Director Profile : Director’s Intention (max. 1,200 characters), Biography & Filmography (max. 1,500 characters)
  • Portfolio : Links to a maximum of 2 previous directorial works (English subtitles required for non-English works; commercials/trailers excluded)
  • Optional : Mood Board or Mood Reel (PDF or link)

5. Key Obligations

• Mandatory Participation : Participants must attend all scheduled sessions, including online/offline workshops and mentoring.
• Project Development : Directing applicants must submit a revised script (adapted draft or higher) within the program period.
• Final Reporting : Directing applicants must submit a final report including an updated synopsis, character descriptions, and production plan within 3 months after the program ends.

6. Credits and Post-Program Obligations

• Credit Requirements : The BAFA logo and the following statement must be included in the film's ending credits:
  "This film was supported by the CHANEL X BIFF Asian Film Academy".
• Rights and Responsibilities : Directing participants must prove they have secured the ‘film rights’ for their project. The participant is solely responsible for any legal disputes, including copyright infringement.
• Project Leadership : Changes to the designated project leader (director) during or after the program are prohibited.
• Mentorship & Networking : Participants are expected to reflect mentor feedback in their projects and are encouraged to engage in BAFA Alumni activities.

7. Important Notes

• Language : All program activities are conducted in English. Applicants must possess at least a minimum level of English proficiency.
• Submission Policy : For directing, only one project may be submitted per applicant.
• Selection Process : Applications may be disqualified without prior notice for missing the deadline, incomplete documentation, or false information.
• Results : Individual feedback on selection results will not be provided.
• Contact : All notices will be sent to the email address provided in the application. The applicant is responsible for any issues resulting from incorrect information.

Inquiries

• Email : bafa@biff.kr