Sujin MOON
The preliminary jury for BIAF2025, which began in April 2025, concluded in July. Experiencing outstanding works from around the world was a great pleasure, yet deciding which films to screen remained a challenging task over these three months. Since several short films are often grouped into a single section, we made every effort to create a balanced program from the audience’s perspective, avoiding overemphasis on any particular style. Encountering a wide range of formats—including puppetry, 3D, and 2D—also allowed us to reflect on the increasing sophistication of animation over the years. We extend our deepest respect to all creators who continue to work passionately and thoughtfully to convey their innermost ideas.

Eunhwa LEE 
This year, works emphasizing solidarity and collaboration among women stood out, alongside the ongoing discussions of feminism at BIAF. Technically, the number of stop-motion works increased significantly. In a time when artificial intelligence is advancing at a dizzying pace, it was particularly striking to see works celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship of human hands. We evaluated submissions carefully, considering theme, concept, execution, and overall quality, and we extend our respect and gratitude to every participating creator.

Somi KIM
We also observed that creators focusing on stop-motion and puppetry—while actively experimenting with innovative materials and techniques—continue to contribute significantly to establishing animation as a medium of artistic expression. The submissions featured a diverse range of works: some carried social messages such as war and environmentalism, while others showcased genre or technical innovation. Notably, female directors made significant strides in both quantity and quality, a particularly encouraging trend.

Eugene KIM
In January, director Sujin Moon, known for the animation Persona, joined the jury. Over the four-month preliminary screening period, the four jury members engaged in rigorous discussions from different perspectives. We sought to maintain a balanced viewpoint, considering each work’s story, form, and the creator’s approach from the audience’s perspective. Above all, it was a time to witness the sincere effort and dedication of each creator, and we extend our deepest respect and gratitude for their passion and commitment.