'Daechi-dong Big 3 Alumni?' Bong Joon-ho's Interpreter Sharon Choi Shakes Mom Cafe with a Secret

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Lim Juhyung] Sharon Choi, who accompanied director Bong Joon-ho to film award ceremonies and broadcasts as an interpreter, is drawing attention.

Sharon Choi gained attention from the American media for her clear pronunciation and excellent interpretation skills, and some regard her as the unsung hero of the Academy Awards campaign for the film "Parasite."

Earlier, Director Bong attended various award ceremonies including the Telluride Film Festival held in Colorado, USA, in August, as well as the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.

During these events, Sharon Choi accompanied Director Bong and served as his interpreter. She smoothly translated not only his words but also the intentions and humor behind them, capturing the audience's attention.

On the 9th, the American media outlet "The New York Times" also focused on Sharon Choi in a separate article. The outlet reported, "She translated all of Director Bong's speeches and interviews into English through red carpet appearances and late-night TV shows," adding, "Choi's calm presence on stage is attracting people's interest."

Director Bong also introduced Sharon Choi in an interview with the American media, saying, "She is perfect. Thanks to Sharon, all the award campaign events went smoothly."

In fact, Sharon Choi is not a professional interpreter. She majored in film at an American university and is known as a rookie director who recently directed a short film.

Due to Sharon Choi's popularity, rumors began spreading through "mom cafes" that she attended a kindergarten class at an English academy in Daechi-dong. Interest in the "Daechi-dong academy" (Daechi-dong P English Academy) that she attended also grew. Articles reported that inquiries about enrollment surged following rumors that she graduated from the kindergarten division of this academy, which is known as one of the "Big 3" in Daechi-dong.

Meanwhile, Sharon Choi is 25 years old this year. Although she lived in the United States during her childhood, she attended school in Korea. She went through elementary, middle, and high school in Korea, then entered the international class at a domestic foreign language high school before studying abroad in the United States.