Jun Ji Hyun lights up NYAFF in black as she makes actress history

Wins 'Extraordinary Star Asia Award' at New York Asian Film Festival

Actress Jun Ji Hyun has become the first Korean actress to receive a special award in New York, USA. On the 11th (local time), Jun Ji Hyun attended the VIP gala of the 25th New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) held at the David Rubenstein Atrium in New York.

During the event, Jun Ji Hyun was honored with the 'Extraordinary Star Asia Award.' This award is presented to actors who have contributed to the development of Asian cinema and have been active on the international stage. Distributor Showbox and Jun Ji Hyun's agency PEACHY stated that this award is one of the most prestigious honors at NYAFF and marks a first for a Korean actress.

Jun Ji Hyun commanded the atmosphere of the venue, appearing in a black dress. In her acceptance speech, she remarked, "I believe film is a special endeavor that connects people beyond culture and language," adding, "I worked on 'Colony' with that same mindset, and I am delighted to present it to the New York audience."

'Colony,' Her First Film in 11 Years, Selected as NYAFF Opening Film

The film behind this award, 'Colony,' marks Jun Ji Hyun's return to the big screen after 11 years. The story follows survivors fighting for survival against evolving infected individuals inside a building sealed off due to an unidentified infection outbreak.

'Colony,' the third zombie film from director Yeon Sang Ho following 'Train to Busan' and 'Peninsula,' was officially invited to the Midnight Screening section of this year's Cannes Film Festival and became a hit in Korea, recording a cumulative audience of 5.9 million.

Jun Ji Hyun plays the role of Dr. Kwon Se-jeong, a leader among the survivors, and the cast includes Koo Kyo Hwan, Ji Chang Wook, Shin Hyun Been, Kim Shin-rok, and Go Soo. At the 25th New York Asian Film Festival, 'Colony' was selected as the opening film, prompting director Yeon Sang Ho and Jun Ji Hyun to visit New York in person.