Bong Joon Ho: the inspirer of new cinema — how the Korean master amazed the world

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In 2019, Bong Joon Ho, the creator of "Parasite," became the first Korean director to win an Oscar. His victory was not just an award but a direct challenge to Hollywood, which often relies on tried-and-true formulas.

What exactly surprised viewers and critics about Bong Joon-ho, and what does his style conceal? Let's find out together with the editors of zoomboola.com.

Master of Genre Destruction

Born in the South Korean town of Daegu in 1969, Bong Joon Ho initially studied sociology and only fully immersed himself in the world of cinema closer to the age of 25. From his very first films, he demonstrated a unique style, skillfully blending black comedy, thriller, and social drama.
Director Bong Joon Ho in a brown jacket and glasses against a lilac background
Bong Joon Ho
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For example, "Okja" (2017), nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Festival, is not only a touching story of friendship between a girl and a giant creature. It's also a sharp critique of corporations that exploit animals for profit.

And "Snowpiercer" (2013) is not just science fiction, but a cinematic locomotive racing through an icy apocalypse, tearing apart the illusions of equality. Each scene is like a carriage with surprises: absurdity, horror, revelation. This film is a reminder: if you ride in the tail for too long, sooner or later you'll want to break through to the locomotive.
Tilda Swinton with long white hair holds An Seo-hyun by the shoulders
Scene from the film 'Okja'
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"Parasite": Triumph Over Stereotypes

The film "Parasite" (2019), which garnered 12 prestigious film awards, transformed Bong Joon-ho from an acclaimed director into a true phenomenon in world cinema. The film was not just a sensation—it was a moment when the entire world realized that powerful stories exist beyond Hollywood. It is no wonder that on IMDb the film's rating is 8.5 out of 10, and on Rotten Tomatoes—an almost unattainable 99%.

"'Parasite' may be his boldest exploration of structural inequality that has come to define the world. Can the poor really just step into the world of the rich?" reflects film critic Brian Tallerico.
A South Korean family of four sits on the floor surrounded by pizza boxes in a scene from the movie "Parasite"
Scene from the movie "Parasite"
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The director masterfully creates tension, immersing the viewer in a world where every step is a chance for survival. From a domestic drama, Bong crafts an almost horror without a single monster, and the finale is a real gut punch that leaves you reluctant to get up for a long time.

Movies That Break the Mold

Bong Joon-ho has changed modern cinema. While Hollywood churns out sequels and franchises, Bong shows that films can be smart, profound, and still captivating. His new movie, "Mickey 17," starring Robert Pattinson, confirms this once again.
Two identical Robert Pattinsons stand next to each other, both wearing hats with protective goggles, one with the number 18 on his chest, the other 17
Robert Pattinson in 'Mickey 17'
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The director doesn't play by Hollywood's rules. Instead of the usual three-act structure, there are sharp turns, just like in life. Bong's success has opened doors for more honest and unconventional films, and the Academy has finally recognized that great cinema is not dependent on language.

What Has Pon Prepared for Dessert?

Bong Joon-ho is not stopping at his achievements. According to the master, his next film will be even more experimental. As stated on Imdb, the upcoming film by the director tells the story of the relationships between deep-sea creatures and humans. As we can see, the filmmaker will continue to break genre boundaries and surprise audiences with new themes.
Trailer for the movie "Mickey 17"
If you haven't yet discovered Bong's films, now is the perfect moment. The editorial team at zoomboola.com is confident: his stories break stereotypes, frighten, amuse, and hit straight to the heart. He doesn't just make movies — he changes the rules of the game. So buckle up — it's only going to get more powerful.

Have you watched Bong Joon-ho's films? Which of his works do you think has changed the film industry the most?