ChaO to Open the 27th Bucheon International Animation Festival
 

BIAF2025 Announces Opening Film: ChaO, Directed by Yasuhiro Aoki
The 27th Bucheon International Animation Festival (BIAF2025) has selected the feature animation ChaO as its Opening Film.

Directed by acclaimed Japanese animator Yasuhiro Aoki and produced by STUDIO 4°C, ChaO is a bold romantic comedy set in a near-future world where humans and mermaids coexist. The story follows Stephan, a mild-mannered office worker at a shipbuilding company, whose life is turned upside down when he suddenly receives a marriage proposal from ChaO, a spirited mermaid princess. Swept into an unpredictable new life, Stephan slowly opens his heart as ChaO’s sincerity begins to break down his emotional walls, giving rise to a touching and unconventional romance.

Distinguished by its vivid colors, meticulous hand-drawn animation, expressive character work, and richly imaginative worldbuilding, ChaO delivers a visual and emotional experience that pushes the boundaries of contemporary animation.
BIAF2025 will take place October 24–28, 2025 in Bucheon, South Korea.