Does Robert Pattinson Also Enjoy Rosé’s ‘Apt’? Plus, His Praise for Director Bong Joon-ho is Mindblowing!

Robert Pattinson, in Seoul to promote his latest film 'Mickey 17', hailed Bong Joon-ho as one of only “four or five directors in the world” who reach his level of mastery.

Speaking at a press conference held on January 20 at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall, Pattinson shared his admiration for Bong, further solidifying the Korean filmmaker’s reputation as a global cinematic icon.

"A Director Every Actor Dreams of Working With"

“Bong Joon-ho is a director every actor wants to work with,” Pattinson remarked. “His films are both deeply personal and profoundly logical, which is a rare combination. It’s difficult to articulate, but he touches emotional depths while maintaining exceptional performances.”

Pattinson also revealed that he recently revisited Bong’s 'Memories of Murder' and found it as striking as ever. “It blends reality and the surreal, seamlessly moving between grave situations and lighter tones. That duality left a lasting impression,” he said. Pattinson added that when he learned Bong had considered him for 'Mickey 17', he immediately agreed to take on the role. When asked about his favorite Bong film, Pattinson quipped, “Mickey 17 is my favorite,” showing his pride in the project where he plays the lead role.

A Warm Welcome to Korea

Addressing rumors that he’s planning to move to Korea, Pattinson joked, “Yes, I’m looking for an apartment,” before clarifying, “I heard about it too, but this is actually my first time in Korea.” The mention of an apartment is speculated to be a joke from Robert Pattinson referencing BLACKPINK member Rosé’s hit single 'Apt.'

He added, “I’ve only been here for less than 24 hours, but I can already see how incredible the Korean film industry is. I grew up watching amazing films by Korean directors and actors.”

The actor expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he received at Incheon International Airport, where fans gathered to greet him. “I was truly touched. I didn’t expect fans to be waiting for me at the airport. It warmed my heart,” he said. Pattinson took time to sign autographs for fans, earning praise for his kindness.

Bong Joon-ho on 'Mickey 17': "A Sci-Fi Film With a Human Touch"

Describing the movie, Bong called it “a sci-fi film brimming with humanity.” He shared his excitement about exploring new territory in filmmaking, including scenes of spaceships, alien planets, and even a moment where Mickey dangles precariously from a spacecraft. Notably, Bong highlighted that 'Mickey 17' features his first-ever love story in 25 years of directing. “The relationship between Mickey and Nasha is central to the story,” Bong said, adding that the film also incorporates a “theme of humanity” composed by Jung Jae-il, a frequent collaborator. “It’s not a full-fledged romance, but there are heartfelt love scenes,” he added with a smile.

Based on Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel 'Mickey 7', the film tells the story of Mickey, an "expendable" crew member assigned to high-risk missions. In a dystopian world where his consciousness is replicated after death, Mickey faces his 17th death—and a twist of fate. Alongside Pattinson, the film features Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo in key roles.

Pattinson, who made his debut in 2004 and gained fame as Cedric Diggory in the 'Harry Potter' series, skyrocketed to international stardom with the 'Twilight saga'. Since then, he has showcased his acting range in films such as 'Cosmopolis', 'Tenet', and 'The Batman'.

'Mickey 17' will premiere worldwide on February 28, with South Korea hosting the film’s first-ever release, underscoring the nation’s growing influence in the global film industry.