Lee Chang-dong to receive Ebert Director Award at Toronto Film Festival, first South Korean honoree

Acclaimed South Korean director Lee Chang-dong will be honored with the Ebert Director Award at the upcoming 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Netflix announced on July 30 that Lee is among the recipients of the festival's Tribute Awards, which recognize significant contributions to cinema.

This prestigious award marks a historic moment, as Lee becomes the first South Korean filmmaker to receive this honor. The Tribute Awards ceremony celebrates outstanding cinematic achievements and contributions. The Ebert Director Award, named in honor of the late American film critic Roger Ebert, specifically recognizes pioneering directors who have demonstrated groundbreaking innovation and a unique artistic vision throughout their careers.

Past recipients of the Tribute Awards include renowned filmmakers such as Guillermo del Toro, Mike Leigh, Sam Mendes, Denis Villeneuve, and Chloé Zhao, highlighting the caliber of artists recognized by TIFF. The inclusion of Lee Chang-dong among these celebrated figures underscores his significant impact on global cinema.

In addition to the award, Lee's latest film, 'Possible Love,' has been officially selected for the festival's Special Presentations section. Starring Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Jo In-sung, and Jo Yeo-jeong, the film explores the story of a couple who meet while working on a documentary. 'Possible Love' will have its world premiere at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 2 before its North American debut at TIFF, followed by a theatrical release in South Korea on September 23 and a Netflix release on November 6.