After a long and arduous summer, autumn—the season of harvest—has returned once again.

And this year, the Busan International Dance Market (BIDAM) celebrates its 16th anniversary.

Looking back, we have journeyed through moments of great honor and joy, as well as challenges, difficulties, and concerns.

Over the past 16 years, our festival has grown by introducing approximately 1,500 artists and more than 200 works from Korea and abroad.

We have also fostered meaningful exchanges between internationally renowned artists and presenters from Korea and around the world, while showcasing high-quality artistic works and broadening the local community’s appreciation and understanding of contemporary dance.

Now, I would like to turn our attention to the future that lies ahead.

Endless challenges and great expectations await us.

If we rest upon the achievements of the past, we may never discover the greatness that the future holds. But if we continue to move forward with courage and determination, we will see this festival make an even greater contribution to the world of art.

Time passes quickly, but works of art endure.

Artists do not exist only in the present; through their works, they transcend time and generations.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the artists and presenters who have joined us for this festival. I would also like to pay tribute to everyone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make these remarkable performances possible.

Without your generous and voluntary support, this festival could not have continued to grow and thrive over the years.

Above all, I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported and sponsored the Busan International Dance Market.

Thank you.

October 1, 2026

Artistic Director of Busan International Dance Market