[BIFF 2026] Shuhua: 'Screen Debut, More Excitement than Nerves... Honored to Participate in My First Film Festival'

Shuhua, transitioning from idol to actress, shared her feelings about her acting debut and her unique experience at the Busan International Film Festival.

On October 7, a press conference for the film 'Happily Ever After' was held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae. Attendees included director Peng Yi Fiona Luan, producers Clifford Miu and Linhan Zhang, and lead actors Shuhua, Jin Sun, and Chae Beom-hee.

Peng Yi Fiona Luan, who won the Best New Director award at the Golden Horse Awards for her debut feature 'American Girl' in 2021, explores the meaning of happiness through the perspectives of two sisters, Kitty and Claire, in her second feature 'Happily Ever After.'

Shuhua, making her acting debut with this film, expressed, "I was really nervous at first, but I felt more excitement than anxiety. It’s an honor to be part of such a significant film festival with my first project." She added, "I’m very curious about the audience's reactions after they watch our film."

Regarding her character Kitty, she noted, "While she is somewhat different from me, we share similar inspirations. She is a character who seeks happiness amid expectations and concerns."

Shuhua also candidly discussed how her experience as an idol has influenced her screen acting. "As the director mentioned, I have been expressing myself on stage for a long time, so recognizing the camera wasn’t difficult. However, while on stage, I focus on fully presenting myself, whereas on screen, I had to consider how to convey very subtle details through the lens," she explained, highlighting the differences in performance mediums.

The 31st Busan International Film Festival, running from October 6 to 15, showcases a diverse selection of 316 films from 59 countries, including 69 community BIFF screenings. The opening film was 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' directed by Kim Jong-kwan, and the closing film will feature award-winning works eligible for the 'Busan Award - Grand Prize' at the Academy Awards.