International Theater Directors Festival

The 44th International Theater Directors Festival returns to Busan from June 17 to June 28, 2026, bringing together visionary directors and groundbreaking productions from across the globe. Held at the Busan Citizens Hall Small Theater, this year's festival showcases a diverse lineup of contemporary performances that explore human relationships, society, memory, and identity through the unique perspectives of internationally recognized theater artists. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience works from Bulgaria, Japan, Poland, Greece, and Korea, highlighting the festival's ongoing mission to promote cultural exchange and introduce new theatrical voices to Korean audiences. From experimental ensemble productions to thought-provoking dramas, the festival offers a rare chance to experience global theater without leaving Busan.

Event Highlights

International theater productions from five countries

Contemporary works by acclaimed stage directors

Cultural exchange through performing arts

Intimate theater setting at Busan Citizens Hall

Performances spanning drama, physical theater, and experimental works

Opportunity to discover emerging global theater trends

Post-pandemic perspectives on society, identity, and human connection

One of Korea's longest-running international theater festivals

Performance Schedule

June 17 (Wed)

Various Wounds (다정한 상처)

Directed by Anastasia Dimitrova (Bulgaria)

June 19 (Fri)

MIX JAM

Directed by Yoshimitsu Furukawa (Japan)

June 21 (Sun)

Pieces of Bread (빵 바나의 조각들)

Directed by Jakub Margosiak (Poland)

June 25-27 (Thu-Sat)

Orestes

Directed by Yiannis Paraskevopoulos (Greece)

June 28 (Sun)

Meeting of Birds (새들의 회의)

Directed by Theater Company Sidae (Korea)

Includes a special lecture by renowned theater critic Myung Jin-saek

When: June 17-28, 2026

Venue: Busan Citizens Hall Small Theater (부산시민회관 소극장)

Show Times: Weekdays 7:30 PM | Weekends 3:30 PM

Admission: 20,000 KRW per performance