Actor Lee Byung Hun has been honored with a Special Tribute Award at the '50th Toronto International Film Festival' (TIFF).
The prestigious TIFF Tribute Awards ceremony was held on September 8 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Canada. Lee was named one of four honorees, alongside Hollywood actress Jodie Foster, director Guillermo del Toro, and filmmaker Hikari.
In a message shared on social media, Lee expressed his gratitude: “Congratulations to the 'Toronto International Film Festival' on its 50th anniversary. I’m proud to be part of such a wonderful celebration.”
Reflecting on his journey, Lee said, “I began acting in television dramas 35 years ago, but I always carried a deep love for cinema in my heart.” He recalled his breakout role in Park Chan Wook’s 2000 film 'Joint Security Area (JSA),' noting, “Through this project, I fulfilled my dream of appearing in a box-office hit.”
He also introduced his latest project, based on an idea he first heard from Park 15 years ago. “After 25 years, I’ve come to present a new film. This story, which I once heard from Director Park, has finally been realized on screen. It’s a film that must be seen,” he emphasized. “And in the future, I hope to continue sharing works that audiences simply cannot miss.”
Lee closed his speech with a heartfelt remark: “I believe this award recognizes the remarkable achievements and growth of Korean culture. I accept it with deep humility.”
The Tribute Awards, now in its seventh year, celebrate artists who have made outstanding contributions to global cinema, including actors, directors, and other creatives. The '50th Toronto International Film Festival' runs through September 14 at venues across the city.
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