By Honorary Reporter Jean Clyde E Singian and Nikhie Villacorta from Philippines

(Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines)

The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines last month launched the online campaign "Korea at Home" to bring Korean pop culture closer to Philippine fans. Since June 16, online events have featured musical performances, food, arts, pop culture, movies, museum exhibitions and tours related to Korea. Launched on the KCC’s Facebook page, the campaign also offers the favorite films of director Bong Joon-ho, whose film "Parasite" this year won Best Picture at the U.S. Academy Awards, courtesy of Korean Film Archives.

Contemporary issues such as social inequality have always been among Bong's favorite topics. Even before his movie shot to fame, he had several films showing the cold reality of the disparity between the haves and have nots as well as other inequalities. Though his films are mostly set in Korea, global audiences find them relatable and realistic since social inequality is prevalent worldwide.

(Illustration= Chiarra Mogol)

"Memories of Murder" (2003), "The Host" (2006) and "Mother" (2009) are among his works before "Parasite," as well as "Snowpiercer" (2014) and "Okja" (2017). He always seeks to present complex class struggles on screen while weaving a great story.

Bong's distinct approach to filmmaking has earned him the nickname "Bongtail," a portmanteau of his last name and the word "detail." With his detail-oriented and meticulous work at every stage of filmmaking, from creating the storyboard and setting the background to editing and promoting the final work, he has a unique method of showing reality and conveying his message to the world.

Taking a closer look at what Bong considers his favorite films can lead to a deeper understanding of why he made his movies and how his favorites influenced his cinematic direction and production.

chaey0726@korea.kr


*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.