Hollywood actor Robert Pattinson is set to make a surprise cameo on SBS’s popular variety show Running Man while in Korea to promote director Bong Joon-ho’s highly anticipated film Mickey 17. On January 20, 2025, following an event regarding the movie, Pattinson was spotted sightseeing in the Seochon area, drawing significant attention from fans and passersby.
According to a source that provided a photo to the South Korean media outlet The Fact, Robert Pattinson has been seen casually walking around Seochon, holding a drink. Coincidentally, the cast and crew of Running Man have been filming nearby, sparking rumors about his possible guest appearance on the show.
Later, clarifying the situation, an SBS representative states,
“There was no official guest for today’s recording. Robert Pattinson happened to pass by the set, and his appearance will be revealed in the episode airing on February 9.”
Although unplanned and not a formal guest, the actor’s brief encounter with the Running Man team will feature in the February 9 episode of Running Man, offering fans a delightful surprise. The show, a beloved staple of Korean entertainment, airs every Sunday at 6:10 pm KST. The news has generated excitement among fans of both the actor and the show.
Robert Pattinson shares excitement about visiting Korea and more about Mickey 17
On January 20, Robert Pattinson attended a press conference and preview screening for Mickey 17 at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall, where he discussed his role in Bong Joon-ho’s latest film. Later that day, he was seen casually walking around the Running Man’s filming set. During the press conference earlier that day, Pattinson expressed his excitement about visiting Korea for the first time.
“I was surprised to realize I had never been to Korea before. I should have been here for earlier promotions, but this is my first time. I’ve always wanted to meet the Korean audience,” he shared.
Robert Pattinson will connect with fans through a series of stage greetings planned for Mickey 17.
Mickey 17, the highly anticipated film from acclaimed director Bong Joon-ho, is set to debut in February 2025. The movie marks Bong’s first directorial work since the groundbreaking Parasite (2019), which earned him global recognition, including four Academy Awards.
Produced, written, and directed by Bong Joon-ho, Mickey 17 promises to blend science fiction with dark humor, bringing a fresh cinematic experience to audiences worldwide. Adapted from Edward Ashton’s 2022 novel Mickey7, the story delves into themes of identity, mortality, and ethical dilemmas.
It follows Mickey, an “expendable” worker assigned to dangerous missions on a distant colony. In this dystopian world, expendables are cloned upon death to continue their tasks. The plot takes an intriguing turn when Mickey, facing his 17th near-death experience, discovers that Mickey 18 has already been created, mistakenly assuming his predecessor is dead.
Bong’s signature storytelling and ability to explore complex narratives promise to elevate this thought-provoking premise into a cinematic masterpiece. Mickey 17 also features a powerhouse cast led by Robert Pattinson as the titular character. The film also stars Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo, each adding their unique talent to the ensemble. Together, they form a compelling cast that will bring Bong’s vision to life.
Mickey 17 is set to make its world premiere at the prestigious 75th Berlin International Film Festival in February 2025. This unveiling at a major film festival highlights the film’s artistic significance and global appeal. Following the premiere, it will be theatrically released by Warner Bros. Pictures, starting with South Korea on February 28, 2025. It will later hit theaters in the United States on March 7, 2025, ensuring a wide audience for Bong’s latest work.
A brief overview of Robert Pattinson’s career and the success of Running Man
Robert Douglas Thomas Pattinson is one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actors who gained early recognition in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) and rose to global fame as Edward Cullen in The Twilight Saga (2008–2012). In 2010, Time recognized his influence by including him in the 100 Most Influential People list, while Forbes named him among the Celebrity 100.
Robert Pattinson has appeared in notable films like Remember Me (2010), Water for Elephants (2011), Cosmopolis (2012), The Lost City of Z (2016), Good Time (2017), High Life (2018), The Lighthouse (2019), Tenet (2020), and The Batman (2022).
Running Man, a variety show that debuted on July 11, 2010, quickly became South Korea’s longest-running variety program. Initially an “urban action variety” show focused on race-style missions at landmarks, it evolved into a game-centric reality show. The program marked the return of Yoo Jae-suk, the main MC, after leaving Family Outing in 2010.
The show gained widespread popularity in South Korea and internationally thanks to its engaging missions and race challenges. Subtitled in numerous languages, it reached global audiences and became a staple in the Sunday variety slot. In 2021, it celebrated its 11th anniversary with over 560 episodes, surpassing Infinite Challenge.
In December 2024, Running Man was announced to be available on Netflix as part of SBS’s partnership, further extending its reach.