Jeonju International Film Festival 2026 (JIFF)
The Jeonju International Film Festival (JIFF) is one of Asia's leading independent and arthouse film events, held across ten days in the historic city of Jeonju (April 29 - May 8). The festival screens hundreds of Korean and international films - many world premieres - at venues throughout Jeonju, including theaters near the famous Hanok Village. JIFF has a strong reputation for bold, unconventional selections and is less commercial than Busan's BIFF. KTX from Seoul to Jeonju takes about 1 hour 40 minutes; tickets for individual screenings sell fast so book online in advance.
Jeonju International Film Festival 2026 (JIFF)
The Festival
The Jeonju International Film Festival (JIFF) is Korea’s second major film festival after BIFF, held across ten days in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province (May 1–10). JIFF has a distinctive identity focused on independent and auteur cinema — it is known for supporting experimental, low-budget, and art-house films that larger festivals overlook. The festival also commissions original short films each year. The Jeonju setting adds appeal: the Hanok Village, traditional food culture, and slower pace make Jeonju one of the most enjoyable Korean cities for a multi-day stay.
Screenings & Jeonju Hanok Village
Screenings take place at multiplex cinemas and dedicated festival halls in central Jeonju. The Hanok Village — Korea’s largest preserved traditional village — is a 15-minute walk from the main festival venues. Jeonju’s bibimbap, makgeolli, and street food scene is exceptional: the festival naturally pairs with serious eating. Tickets are available on the JIFF website; most screenings do not sell out as quickly as BIFF, making same-day tickets often possible.
Getting There
- From Seoul: KTX to Jeonju Station (about 1.5 hours); local bus or taxi to the Hanok Village area
- From Busan: Express bus or KTX via Daejeon (about 2–2.5 hours)
- Accommodation: Hanok stay (traditional guesthouse) inside the Hanok Village is highly recommended — book well in advance for festival dates
- Festival tickets: Available on the JIFF website; English-language guide published each year
