South Korean actor Lee Byung-hun has made history by becoming the first Korean performer to receive the prestigious Special Tribute Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. The honor was presented during the festival's 50th anniversary celebration, marking a significant milestone for Korean cinema on the international stage.

The award was presented by acclaimed director Park Chan-wook at the TIFF Tribute Awards gala, held at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto on Monday. Lee joined an exclusive group of distinguished honorees that included Jodie Foster, Guillermo del Toro, and filmmaker Hikari, cementing his status among cinema's most respected figures.

During his acceptance speech, delivered in English, Lee reflected on his journey from television to film. "I began my acting career 35 years ago in television dramas. But in my heart, I always had a love for film," the 'Squid Game' star said. He specifically credited Park's 2000 film 'Joint Security Area' as the pivotal moment when he realized his dream of becoming a film actor.

The timing of the award coincided with Lee and Park's reunion at the festival to present their third collaboration, 'No Other Choice,' which had its North American premiere as a gala presentation. The dark comedy, adapted from Donald Westlake's novel 'The Ax,' follows the story of an unemployed manager who resorts to eliminating his competitors for a job opportunity.

"This was a story I first heard from him more than 15 years ago. And finally, it's being brought to life on screen," Lee said of the long-awaited project. "I believe this is a story that must be seen." The film represents another significant collaboration between the actor and director, following their successful previous partnerships.

In a touching moment, Lee dedicated his achievement to his homeland and the broader Korean entertainment industry. "I humbly accept it not just as an award for myself, but as recognition of the proud achievements and growth Korean culture has made throughout the world," he stated during his closing remarks.

Following the ceremony, Lee shared a clip of his acceptance speech on his Instagram account on Wednesday morning, allowing fans worldwide to witness this historic moment. The Toronto International Film Festival praised Lee as a "global sensation" who has achieved massive success across both film and television in Korea and Hollywood.

The Special Tribute Award is designed to recognize outstanding contributions to global cinema and has previously honored distinguished figures including Hong Kong's Andy Lau and China's Zhao Tao. Lee's recognition represents the growing international acknowledgment of Korean talent and the Korean Wave's impact on global entertainment.

'No Other Choice' had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in late August and is set to make another significant appearance at the 30th Busan International Film Festival on September 17. Notably, Lee will serve as the first male solo opening night host in the Busan festival's history, adding another historic achievement to his career. The film is scheduled to hit Korean theaters on September 24, giving domestic audiences the chance to see this highly anticipated collaboration.