The Daejong Film Awards, the oldest film awards ceremony in Korea, has found a new owner after a two-year hiatus.
On the 12th, the Korean Film Artists Association (hereafter referred to as the Art Association) announced, "The trademark rights of the Daejong Film Awards have officially transferred to our association," stating, "The organizing company has been selected as Artemis Studio under WeBand Co., Ltd."
Since its inception in 1962, the Daejong Film Awards has been the longest-running film awards in Korea, organized by the Korean Film Producers Association (hereafter referred to as the Producers Association). However, operations were halted after the Producers Association filed for bankruptcy in December 2023, leading to the trademark rights going up for auction.
Earlier this year, the Film Producers Association submitted a bid and paid a deposit, but the contract was terminated as they could not pay the remainder. Several subsequent re-auctions failed until the Art Association secured the right of first refusal by offering 315 million won, ultimately concluding the acquisition of the trademark rights.
The Art Association has begun preparations with the goal of holding the 60th Daejong Film Awards in April 2026. An association representative stated, "It is meaningful to return this long-standing awards ceremony back into the hands of filmmakers," adding, "We will transform it into a new Daejong that restores its authenticity and dignity."