Updated November 2023
The Pyongyang International Film Festival (PIFF)
Pyongyang International Film Festival is held annually in Pyongyang, usually around September time. Koryo Tours & Studio are the official partners of PIFF, Pyongyang International Film Festival.
Koryo Studio &
Pyongyang International Film Festival
Koryo Studio has been working with the organisers of PIFF since 2002.
We have a strong focus on helping them to expand the festival and improve the range of foreign films shown to a wider North Korean audience.
About PIFF
Since 2002, this annual festival has transformed into a truly international event, embracing films from across the globe.
In contrast to its earlier focus on ‘non-aligned and other developing countries,’ which included Australia, France, Canada, Malaysia, China, Iran, Pakistan, the UK, Mongolia, Thailand, and Germany, the festival now opens its doors to cinematic contributions worldwide.
Collaborating closely with the festival organizers, Koryo Tours & Studi has played a pivotal role in expanding and enhancing the diversity of films presented, allowing a significant portion of the DPRK population to experience them.
In partnership with the British Embassy and Ealing Studios, Koryo Tours & Studio has facilitated the inclusion of numerous films from around the world in the competition.
Notable entries include ‘Bend it like Beckham,’ ‘Mr. Bean Disaster Movie,’ ‘The March of the Penguins,’ and ‘Bride and Prejudice.’
It’s important to note that the final schedule of events is typically disclosed just a few days before the festival commences.
PIFF Submissions
Get Involved
Through Koryo Studio, you can also do your own PIFF submission, too!
Submissions must be via hard copy and it can take a long time to hear back from Pyongyang whether your film has made the cut or not.
PIFF accepts feature films, documentaries, short films, and animations. You can check the criteria for eligibility and film festival regulations on the PIFF website.
Pyongyang International Film Festival Opening Ceremony
The PIFF opening ceremony is held in the Yanggakdo International Cinema.
It is possible for foreigners to attend this, although special permission is needed. There are then various films shown throughout the days during the festival in multiple locations in Pyongyang. Tickets are often well sought-after and cinemas are often packed full.
Usually, it’s possible for foreigners to attend the opening ceremony and also pay a visit to any of the cinemas to watch one of the films being screened.
Recently, Bollywood has become very popular!
