Marvel's 'Thunderbolts*' editor reveals Bong Joon-ho, Park Chan-wook Easter eggs

Korean American film editor Harry Yoon, best known for editing the award-winning film "Minari" (2020), revealed that Marvel Studios' upcoming film "Thunderbolts*" will resonate more deeply with Korean fans due to its homages to prominent Korean directors such as Bong Joon-ho and Park Chan-wook.

"Director Jake Schreier was inspired by the collaborative approach between director Bong Joon-ho and editor Yang Jin-mo and requested that my co-editor Angela Catanzaro and I also be on set to edit in real time while filming," the editor said in a written interview through Walt Disney Company Korea, Wednesday.

"Schreier greatly respects Korean directors. Korean audiences will be able to find small and subtle homages and references to directors Bong Joon-ho and Park Chan-wook in this film."

Yoon, also known for editing Marvel Studio’s 2021 film “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” and Netflix's 2023 series “Beef,” served as the editor for the new Marvel action blockbuster that revolves around former spies, assassins and hitmen as they face the world's greatest threat in the aftermath of the Avengers' disappearance.

In addition to Yoon, the film also features the work of Korean American production designer Grace Yun, bringing particular attention to the Korean talent behind the project.

Drawing from his experience editing Korean- and Asian-themed stories, Yoon noted that the movie incorporates many elements that will appeal to Korean viewers.

"From watching Korean films and dramas, I have noticed that Korean audiences appreciate stories of the underdog, especially those who have experienced significant loss or hardship," he said.

"The main characters in this film, from Yelena (Florence Pugh) to Red Guardian (David Harbour), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), John Walker (Wyatt Russell) and even Bucky (Sebastian Stan), are all marginalized ones who have suffered great pain and wounds, but they try their best in their own way. I believe that Korean audiences will deeply empathize with and root for their struggles and eventual triumphs by watching [how] they become a team."

Yoon takes pride in his work on "Thunderbolts*" for its blend of humor, action and emotional depth, hoping Korean Marvel fans connect with and enjoy the film.

"'Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings' was a special project within the Marvel Cinematic Universe in that it featured Asian actors in leading roles and centered around an Asian story. I believe that 'Thunderbolts*' will also offer audiences a unique experience comparable to that, with surprising themes and actors’ outstanding performances," he said.

When asked about his feelings as a Korean creator working in Hollywood, he mentioned that many Asians, including Koreans, are now working in the industry, indicating a changing landscape.

"When I was young, I couldn't even imagine working in Hollywood. There were so few Asians, whether actors or crew members. I hope that Koreans and Korean Americans who aspire to work in Hollywood will see my name in the end credits and gain the courage to pursue their dreams," he said.

"Thunderbolts*" will hit Korean theaters April 30.