Academy Museum to Host Large-Scale Bong Joon Ho Exhibition

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The prominent Korean entertainment company, CJ ENM (known for producing Bong Joon Ho’s award-winning film “Parasite”), has agreed on a three-year partnership with the Academy Museum of Cinematic Arts. This collaboration aims to increase the visibility and influence of Asian cinema within Hollywood.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to announce that the first phase of this partnership, backed by CJ ENM, will unveil the world’s inaugural museum exhibition dedicated to Bong Joon Ho’s illustrious work. Set to open on March 23 and named “Director’s Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho,” this extensive showcase will display over a hundred original artifacts, such as storyboards, research materials, film posters, concept art, creature designs, props, and behind-the-scenes photographs.

The project doesn’t stop there; it will also include an interactive exhibition space showcasing Bong’s creative workspace brimming with objects that sparked the ideas for his films. Additionally, a retrospective screening series of his movies will accompany this event, offering fans like me a chance to revisit some of his masterpieces on the big screen.

This alliance intends to increase the visibility of exceptional Asian films, including those from Korea, within mainstream Hollywood productions. This move capitalizes on CJ ENM’s achievements in propelling Korean cinema onto the global stage,” the museum and studio announced in a joint press release on Sunday.

Bong Joon Ho, a renowned South Korean director, is recognized for his groundbreaking work and commercial success. His films are praised for their skillful blending of genres, incisive social commentary, and dark humor. He first made an impact with “Barking Dogs Never Bite” (2000), a black comedy that foreshadowed the seamless tonal shifts he would later become known for. His major breakthrough came with “Memories of Murder” (2003), a gripping police procedural influenced by South Korea’s first documented serial killer. This was followed by the unique creature feature, “The Host” (2006), which combined horror, satire, and family adventure in an unexpected way. His foray into Hollywood, such as “Snow Piercer” (2013), “Okja” (2017), and “Mikey 17” (currently released), have seen him continuously challenge genre norms and tackle deep social issues. However, it was his film “Parasite” (2019) that marked a significant milestone for both Korean and global cinema. This sharp social critique won the Cannes Palme d’Or and made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win the Oscar for Best Picture.

The 2023 retrospective at the Academy Museum showcases the work of frequent collaborator and renowned Korean actor Song Kang-ho, with a subsequent exhibition in following years specifically dedicated to the films of director Bong Joon-ho.

Miky Lee, who serves as vice-chairwoman for CJ, has consistently supported the Academy Museum since her appointment to its Board of Trustees in 2019. In addition to this role, she held the position of vice chair on the museum’s board. Notably, she was bestowed with the Pillar Award at the 2022 Academy Museum Gala for her exceptional leadership and significant contributions.

Academy Museum Trustee Miky Lee and CJ ENM’s assistance and commitment to highlighting Korean Cinema at our museum is greatly appreciated, as stated by Amy Homma, the museum’s director and president. The ‘Director’s Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho’ exhibition will offer our guests a unique look into Bong’s creative mind, and we are thrilled about this collaboration, looking forward to delving deeper into Korean narratives in future exhibits through this partnership.

A representative from CJ ENM stated, “For the past 30 years since 1995, we’ve been dedicatedly working to elevate and honor Korean cinema. With this collaboration, our aim is to aid in the international recognition of Asian creators who combine unique talent with broad appeal.

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2025-03-24 06:55