The closing ceremony started at 4:50 PM on November 26th (Sun) at NTT CRED Hall No.1. With the exchange of words between the host KIMURA and the interpreter Baldwin, the session proceeded in a relaxed environment.

A message from Governor YUZAKI Hidehiko of Hiroshima Prefecture was shared, followed by warm words from Ms.LEE Soojung, Deputy Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Hiroshima. She remarked, "I would be pleased if this festival could become the opportunity for people from various countries around the world to understand each other through movies. I pray for the future development of the Hiroshima International Film Festival." She also mentioned her own passion for movies.

The short film competition was held for the first time in four years after a long year of COVID-19 . The awards were presented to three out of the six films nominated.

The Audience Award was announced by a member of the judging committee, actress OTA Ryoka. The winning film was "Summer Christmas," directed by LEE Gahong. Director LEE expressed in her speech, "This is the first award since I started making movies, and I am genuinely happy. I will never forget it," with a smile on her face.

Next was the announcement of the Special Jury Prize made by Director KIM Jong-kwan. When "Bania on Lima Street" directed by Bayu Pradhantoro Philemon was announced, cheers erupted from the audience. In his post-award speech, the director said, "To the judges, the filming crew, actors, producers, my wife, everyone who supported me, and everyone at the Hiroshima International Film Festival, thank you very much!" while expressing his joy.

Amid heightened anticipation, the announcement of the Hiroshima Grand Prix by Jury President Brillante Mendoza was made, and "Graveyard of Horse," directed by Xiaoxuan JIANG was awarded. Unfortunately, due to schedule constraints, Director JIANG was not present at the venue, but enthusiastic applause was sent his way.

At this point, special guest Director HAMAGUCHI Ryusuke appeared and sent a message to the young and upcoming directors and the youth in general, stating, "When young people look at the older generation, they may feel an indescribable discomfort. Also, there are many things you cannot do or understand. However, that is your current self, and you have no choice but to start from there. So, I hope you can be honest about your inability and lack of understanding, find your own way, and shape your own methods for doing as you wish."

Finally, HIFF president HEYA Kyoko made the closing statement. Ms. HEYA expressed gratitude to everyone involved and shared various memories during the period. In conclusion, she said, " During the four days of HIFF, we had a lot of dramatic scenes , but all of them are stories that lead to the future. This film festival will continue to take small steps as a film festival that snuggles up to Hiroshima, bringing together everyone in the world. Thank you for celebrating the 15th anniversary. Please look forward to HIFF 2024. This concludes the festival. Let’s meet again at this place next year!"