Bong Joon-ho is widely recognized as one of the greatest filmmakers of our time. The South Korean director, best known for Parasite, Memories of Murder, and Snowpiercer, has captivated audiences with his sharp storytelling and unique cinematic vision. But beyond his mastery of film, Bong has a deep, somewhat unexpected passion—football.
In a recent interview with talkSPORT, Bong revealed his admiration for the sport and some of its biggest stars, sparking excitement among both cinephiles and football fans alike. His love for the game has even led to surprising moments, including inviting Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne to his “last supper.”
So hold on tight and relax as we dissect and break down this unexpected crossover between cinema and footie.
Bong Joon-ho’s Favorite Footballers: A Blend of Past and Present
During his talkSPORT interview for the screening/promotion of his latest movie ‘Mickey17’ starring Robert Pattinson & Chelsea Li, Bong was asked which footballers he currently enjoys watching. Without hesitation, he named three standout players:
“I really like Lamine Yamal, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jude Bellingham.”
The inclusion of Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid’s midfield sensation Jude Bellingham, and Manchester City‘s creative genius Kevin De Bruyne showcases Bong’s appreciation for both emerging talent and established superstars.
When asked about legendary players from the past, Bong also gave a nod to one of football’s greatest icons:
“In terms of old players, I liked Michel Platini. The French Player”
This revelation solidifies his genuine enthusiasm for the game, proving that his knowledge extends beyond casual fandom.
Footballers in Film & De Bruyne As a Baker?
During the talkSPORT interview, actress Chelsea Li, who was present alongside Bong, added a humorous take on the discussion. When asked what role she would cast Kevin De Bruyne in if he were in a film, she playfully suggested:
“I want to cast Kevin De Bruyne as a bakery worker; he looks like a good baker!”
While the statement was lighthearted, it sparked laughter among fans and highlighted the ongoing trend of blending football with pop culture.
Reddit AMA: Kevin De Bruyne Gets a Seat at Bong’s “Last Supper”
Bong Joon-ho’s football admiration isn’t limited to recent interviews. In November, during a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) session, he was asked an intriguing question:
“What would be your last supper and what five people would you invite?”
His answer was a mix of legendary filmmakers, a childhood music hero, an Olympic gold medalist, and—perhaps surprisingly—a Premier League footballer. Here’s what Bong said:
“Hitchcock, Yuna Kim, Kevin De Bruyne, Martin Scorsese, and Jimmy Page, who was my hero in high school. We are eating Spanish cuisine, lots of paella.”
This unexpected inclusion of De Bruyne alongside cinema legends Alfred Hitchcock and Martin Scorsese, Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, and Olympic figure skating champion Yuna Kim shows just how much Bong admires the Belgian playmaker.
It’s one thing to be a football fan; it’s another to put a footballer at your dream dinner table alongside some of the greatest minds in history.
Bong Joon-ho’s Lifelong Love for Football
While Bong Joon-ho is best known for his cinematic achievements, these moments prove that his passion for football runs deep. Whether it’s naming his favorite players, inviting Kevin De Bruyne to an imaginary dinner, or engaging in fun football-related discussions, it’s clear that the Oscar-winning director is a true football nerd.
His deep appreciation for the sport bridges the worlds of cinema and football, reminding fans that storytelling and the beautiful game share one key element—pure passion.
