"Parasite" Becomes 1st Korean Film To Win At Independent Spirit Awards With Best International Film Win

Hit film “Parasite” continues to soar as it makes history once more.

On February 8 (local time), the 35th Independent Spirit Awards were held in Santa Monica, U.S. where “Parasite” won the title of Best International Film. The event is the representative awards show in the U.S. that celebrates independent filmmakers.

“Parasite” now holds the title as the first Korean film to win an award at the ceremony. Films such as 2005’s “Oasis,” Bong Joon Ho’s 2009 film “Mother,” and 2018 film “Burning” have been nominated in the past, but this is the first Korean film to win an award. It was up against stiff competition including “Invisible Life,” “Les Miserables,” “Portrait of a Lady on Fire,” “Retablo,” and “The Souvenir.”

Director Bong Joon Ho accepted the award and said, “10 years ago, I came here with my previous film ‘Mother,’ which was nominated. Although I didn’t get to win, I remember the tent being very memorable. I’m so happy to receive this award today at a much cooler tent. I would like to thank all my cast members, crew members, and the companies who gave their full support to make this film.”

He went on to state, “Suddenly I remember the very first day of the screening of ‘Parasite’ in New York in a very old, classic theater. During the Q&A, I saw a rat running in the background. It was a very old theater, and while giving my answer, I saw a rat scurrying around the audience. At the time, I thought maybe it was a symbol of luck,” and made everyone laugh.

“Parasite” is currently nominated in six categories at the 92nd Annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles, and Bong Joon Ho will be in attendance with the main cast. The awards will be held on February 9 at 5 p.m. PST (February 10 at 10 a.m. KST).

Congratulations to “Parasite”!

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