Park Chan-wook Leads Cannes Jury
Acclaimed South Korean director Park Chan-wook has been named President of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival Jury. His appointment is seen as recognition of his growing stature in global cinema and is expected to bring a distinctive perspective to this year's selection process.
Park Chan-wook's relationship with Cannes spans over two decades, solidifying his reputation as a festival favorite. He first gained major international recognition at the festival with "Oldboy," which won the Grand Prix in 2004. This was followed by the Jury Prize for his vampire film "Thirst" in 2009 and the Best Director award for the mystery "Decision to Leave" in 2022. His appointment marks a historic moment, making him the first South Korean filmmaker to ever preside over the Cannes jury. This is seen as a significant acknowledgment of the growing global influence and innovation of South Korean cinema. As jury president, Park will play a decisive role in selecting the winner of the prestigious Palme d'Or, the festival's highest honor. Park is known for his visually stunning and often brutal films that blend crime, mystery, and thriller elements with black humor. His distinct aesthetic and bold directorial style are expected to influence the jury's selections, with many anticipating a focus on films that exhibit both artistic merit and popular appeal. Interestingly, Park's "Oldboy" was rumored to be a strong contender for the Palme d'Or in 2004, with jury president Quentin Tarantino reportedly championing the film. The top prize ultimately went to Michael Moore's "Fahrenheit 9/11," a decision that has since become a part of Cannes lore.
