Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho recently held a press event in Seoul for his new sci-fi dark comedy, "Mickey 17." During the event, Bong expressed pride in the resilience of South Koreans in overcoming the fallout from President Yoon Suk-yeol's martial law declaration. The controversial declaration, made on December 3, lasted for about six hours before lawmakers voted it down. Bong was among several film industry figures who publicly condemned the martial law attempt.
President Yoon Suk-yeol faces suspension and trial for alleged insurrection linked to his martial law bid, which aimed to ban political and parliamentary activities and control the media. This political upheaval unfolded while Bong Joon-ho was informed of the martial law declaration in a surreal moment as he watched a report about K-pop. Despite the chaos, Bong reassured his "Mickey 17" star, Mark Ruffalo, via email, telling him not to worry about the situation.
"Mickey 17," based on a novel by Edward Ashton, marks Bong Joon-ho's return to filmmaking after "Parasite," which made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win an Oscar for Best Picture. The film stars Mark Ruffalo as a demagogic politician inspired by historical dictators. In a previous interview in Berlin, Bong Joon-ho mentioned that "history always repeats itself," alluding to the film's villain.
"I think that's the pride of our citizens who have already overcome the martial law," said Bong Joon-ho, acknowledging the strength and resolve of South Koreans during these challenging times.
The director hopes that "Mickey 17" will offer empathy and consolation to its viewers. He highlighted that the film's press conference proceeded smoothly, illustrating the continuity of cultural pursuits despite political tensions.
"We are now holding a film press conference and music, films and our daily lives continue without hesitation," Bong stated, emphasizing the resilience of everyday life in South Korea.
Bong Joon-ho's remarks were part of a collective statement from various figures in the film industry condemning the martial law declaration. His comments reflect a broader sentiment of resilience and hope amidst political uncertainty.
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