Chow Yun-fat lauded for winning Asian Filmmaker of the Year at Busan film festival

Hong Kong superstar Chow Yun-fat on Tuesday won the Asian Filmmaker of the Year at the 28th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), becoming the second actor from the city to earn international acclaim in a week.

The award is granted to Asian filmmakers who have made significant contributions to the advancement of the Asian film industry and culture.

Chow is expected to receive the title in person at the event next month.

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Kevin Yeung congratulated Hong Kong actor Chow Yun-fat on winning the award, saying Chow plays a diverse repertoire and gives life to many classic characters with his outstanding acting skills.

"He made a name for himself in Hong Kong and even worldwide before successfully making his way to Hollywood, and established his status in the global film industry.

"Chow is well-loved by Hong Kong people for being approachable."

Yeung pointed out that Hong Kong actors have earned recognition among their counterparts worldwide by reaping a number of international awards in recent years.

He added that the Government and the Film Development Council will continue to provide support on various fronts and foster the industry's sustainable development.