If there’s one city in China that embodies the dreams of filmmaking, it’s Hengdian. And in Korea, that role undoubtedly belongs to Busan. These two cities each support approximately 70% of their respective countries’ film and television productions—one located in the heart of eastern China, known for its expansive live-action sets and fully integrated production infrastructure; the other nestled between mountains and sea, renowned for its vibrant mix of natural landscapes and urban energy.
The year 2025 marks the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and South Korea, as well as the official “China-Japan-Korea Cultural Exchange Year.” With visa-free travel implemented, cross-border cultural tourism on the rise, and content exports accelerating, the film and television industries in both countries are embracing a new window of opportunity—centered on resource sharing and industrial synergy. As the demand for creativity and efficiency continues to rise, the complementary strengths of Hengdian and Busan are paving the way for new modes of cooperation.
At this year’s Busan Contents Market (BCM), Hengdian World Studios made its official debut in Korea. Through a triad of initiatives—an exhibition booth, a press conference, and a China-Korea industry forum—Hengdian presented its latest transformation: from filming location to international co-production hub.This was not only a milestone in going global, but also a strategic step toward becoming “Asia’s Hengdian” and ultimately “the world’s Hengdian.”At the Hengdian booth, representatives from Korea, Japan, Latin America, Central Asia, and Hong Kong gathered in steady streams. Discussions ranged from short dramas co-productions and film tourism to technical collaboration and talent development. A Korean guest recalled organizing a fan pilgrimage to Hengdian’s Qin Palace set in 2016, while others proposed co-establishing virtual production facilities and creative incubators in Hengdian. Several media professionals praised Hengdian’s one-stop production system and operational efficiency.
At the May 28 press conference, Mr. Kwon Mahnwoo, Chairman of the BCM Organizing Committee, opened with a heartfelt speech recalling his first visit to Hengdian a decade ago. He was struck by the scale and streamlined efficiency of its film ecosystem. “Film and cultural exchange is not about politics—it’s about understanding and connection between people,” he said, setting a tone of openness and warmth for the event.
Following his remarks, Ms. Caroline Guo, General Manager of International Business Division at Hengdian World Studios, engaged in an in-depth dialogue with Mr. Jooick Lee, a veteran Korean producer involved in acclaimed China-Korea co-productions such as Late Autumn and A Battle of Wits. Their conversation focused on collaboration in short dramas, tech integration, and international talent development. Throughout the exchange, Hengdian’s strategic role as a culturally proximate and logistically attractive partner was once again underscored by Korean stakeholders.The dialogue reinforced Hengdian’s position as not just a top filming site for Chinese productions—but as a growing global platform for creators worldwide.
The momentum continued the next day at the China-Korea Film and TV Future Forum on May 29, hosted by Hengdian World Studios. Under the moderation of Professor Vivi Fan from the Communication University of China, representatives from Reel-K, the Busan Film Commission, Busan Film and Video Production Association, Purple Wave Pictures Co.Ltd, and Huntmobi gathered to discuss two major topics: “Co-Building a Brodeless Film & TV Ecosystem” and “New Pathway for China-Korea Short Drama Cooperation.” As the conversation unfolded, Hengdian’s role as a platform-based production base came into sharper focus. The forum concluded with the signing of two MOUs between Hengdian and both the Busan Film and Video Production Association and the BCM Organizing Committee, laying a strong foundation for future collaboration.
Film has never been a one-way export—it is mutual understanding, co-creation, and cultural connection. As the global content industry continues to converge, Busan and Hengdian—each with its own rhythm and character—are contributing new energy to the future of East Asian storytelling.
Hengdian, once a small town carrying the dreams of Chinese filmmakers, is now evolving into a creative factory for Asia—and for the world.This journey to Busan was more than an exhibition. It was a face-to-face, heart-to-heart dialogue. The story began in Busan—and its echoes will continue through every connection Hengdian makes with the world.