Comedy Goes International in Busan
Veteran comedian Lee Hongryeol made an appearance at the press conference for the 13th Busan International Comedy Festival (BICF), held on July 1 at Stanford Hotel Seoul. The gathering set the tone for what’s shaping up to be one of the most laughter-packed events of the year.
What to Expect From BICF 2024
Running from August 29 to September 7, the upcoming BICF takes place across major venues in Busan’s Haeundae district. As Asia’s first and largest international comedy festival, it promises a colorful mosaic of comedy acts featuring South Korea’s top comedic talents, viral creators, and international performers.
This year’s grand opening kicks off at BEXCO Auditorium, drawing comedy lovers from across the country and beyond. Think of it as South Korea’s version of the Just for Laughs Festival, but with a uniquely Hallyu twist.
Star-Packed Press Conference
Joining Lee Hongryeol at the conference were Kim Junho (who also heads the festival as executive director), Byeon Kisoo, Ahn Youngmi, Song Yeonggil, Lee Sangho, Lee Sangmin, Shin Yoonseung, and Jo Suyeon. The group shared hilarious behind-the-scenes stories and their hopes for spreading Korean comedy globally.
“We want to make Busan the global center of laughter,” Kim Junho said. “This isn’t just a festival—it’s where cultures and punchlines collide.”
The Heart of Korean Humor
BICF has long served as a platform to spotlight South Korea’s evolving comedy scene—from slapstick and sketch to digital-age humor. The festival has grown to include international troupes and up-and-coming creators, reflecting how humor transcends borders.
Why It Matters
While K-pop and K-dramas have gone global, Korean comedy is quickly catching up. Events like BICF signal the growing demand for K-culture content beyond music idols and dramatic plot twists. So if you’re craving culture with a side of laughter, time to mark those calendars.
From global stand-up to local sitcom stars, BICF 2024 promises laughs without borders.
