Jun Ji-Hyun Honored with Extraordinary Star Asia Award at NYAFF

Jun Ji-Hyun has been honored with the Extraordinary Star Asia Award at the 25th New York Asian Film Festival for her performance in the film Colony. This recognition comes as she makes her long-awaited return to the big screen after an 11-year hiatus. Directed by Yeon Sang Ho, Colony was selected as the festival's opening film, generating significant excitement. The film, a sci-fi thriller, features a unique take on the zombie genre, where the infected share a hive mind. While the film has received mixed reviews, it showcases Jun Ji-Hyun's impactful return to cinema.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 13, 2026, 19:04 IST

Jun Ji-Hyun Receives Prestigious Award for Colony

Jun Ji-Hyun has recently been awarded the Extraordinary Star Asia Award at the 25th New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) for her outstanding performance in the film Colony. This accolade celebrates artists who have significantly impacted Asian cinema, coinciding with her much-anticipated return to the film industry after an 11-year break. Directed by Yeon Sang Ho, Colony was featured as the festival's opening film, reflecting the excitement surrounding its release. Both Jun Ji-Hyun and the director were present at the screening, engaging with the audience and commemorating the film's international debut.

Details of the Award and Film

Jun Ji-Hyun's Recognition at NYAFF

On July 12, the actress's agency, PEACHY, along with distributor Showbox, announced her receipt of the Extraordinary Star Asia Award. This honor is given to actors who have made notable contributions to Asian cinema through their work and influence. The selection of Colony as the festival's opening film further emphasizes the excitement surrounding this project, marking Jun Ji-Hyun's first film in over a decade, making it one of her most anticipated comebacks. At the festival, she and director Yeon Sang-Ho greeted fans before the opening-night screening, receiving a warm welcome from international audiences.

Critical Reception of Colony

A review from a media outlet described Colony as "ambitious" but not necessarily a great film. The director, Yeon Sang-Ho, utilizes genre elements to delve into intricate human emotions and societal themes. While the film captivates with its stunning visuals and profound ideas, it struggles with pacing and character depth. Fans looking for relentless action akin to Train to Busan might find it lacking, yet those who appreciate science fiction with meaningful social commentary may find its deeper themes rewarding.

Overview of Colony

About the Film Colony

Colony is a science fiction thriller set against the backdrop of a biotechnology conference in Seoul. The plot follows Professor Kwon Se-Jeong (played by Jun Ji-Hyun) and a group of survivors who become trapped after a disgraced scientist intentionally releases a mutating virus. Unlike conventional zombies, the infected possess a hive mind, enabling them to adapt quickly and outsmart the survivors, making every escape attempt perilous.