Grand Bell Awards

The Grand Bell Awards, also known as the Daejong Film Awards, are among the most prestigious accolades in South Korean cinema. Established in 1962, these awards are the oldest continuous film honors in the country and are often compared to the American Academy Awards for their significance in the industry.

Presented annually by the Motion Pictures Association of Korea, the Grand Bell Awards celebrate excellence in South Korean filmmaking. Originally hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Information, the ceremony faced a brief hiatus in 1969. Fortunately, it made a comeback in 1972, thanks to the efforts of the Korea Motion Picture Promotion Association, which was created to revitalize the then-declining film industry.

Today, the Grand Bell Awards continue to be a major event, recognizing and honoring the best in South Korean cinema.