A Uniquely Transnational Style: Bong Joon-ho’s Memories of Murder and The Host

Abstract The Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho has constructed a uniquely transnational style through creating a discourse of the hybridization of South Korean and Hollywood cinemas. The development of this unique style is understood through two of Bong’s first feature films, Memories of Murder [ Sarinui Chueok ] (South Korea, dir: Bong, 2003) and The Host [ Gwoemul ] (South Korea and Japan, dir: Bong, 2006). These films demonstrate Bong’s ability to merge distinctly recognisable cinematic traditions from their respective nation. This merging is understood through what Marwan Kraidy (2002) refers to as “hybridization,” the films are analysed through three primary avenues (1) cultural, (2) political, and (3) visual. Bong’s subversion and repurposing of Hollywood conventions lies at the heart of his unique style and underpins his international success. This article reaffirms Bong’s place as a key transnational director who has the capacity to create Hollywood-style blockbusters which resonate politically and socially with their respective audiences.