"Do you know BTS?" Jin asks, grinning at Tom Cruise across the studio set of his YouTube show, "Run Jin." The question has become something of a cultural in-joke in Korea — the gold standard for determining whether a foreigner has done their homework. Cruise, ever the prepared performer, does not miss a beat: "Yes! I know BTS. We all know BTS."
This playful exchange kicked off the much-anticipated thirty-fifth episode of "Run Jin," featuring the unlikely pairing of one of K-pop's most beloved figures and the legendary Hollywood action star
Tom Cruise's recent trip to South Korea for the promotion of "Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning" has not only taken the Korean box office by storm but also created some unforgettable moments that beautifully blend Hollywood action with Korean culture. The film's opening day attendance shattered records, even surpassing Bong Joon-ho's "Mickey 17."
During a fun interview with Jin, Cruise talked about the incredible wing-walking scene, highlighting just how physically demanding it was. The conversation took a lighthearted turn when Jin joked about wanting to join Cruise's Impossible Mission Force team. What started as playful banter quickly turned into a hilarious scenario involving fiery airplanes and high-stakes radio operations, leading Jin to humorously conclude that he was better off sticking with BTS.
Off-camera, the most heartwarming moment happened on Korean Parents' Day. When Jin asked for a selfie to share with his mom, Cruise suggested they do an impromptu video call instead. This sweet moment, shared on social media, went viral among BTS fans around the globe. Cruise even made a heart shape with his fingers while greeting fans at the airport (Tom Cruise Visits Seoul to Promote New “Mission: Impossible” Film, 2025).
My Take
This event really showcases how interconnected global entertainment has become. Cruise's eagerness to engage with Korean culture, especially through his interaction with Jin and his family, reflects a smart understanding of cultural exchange. That viral moment struck a chord with fans worldwide, further extending the film's reach. South Korea boasts a vibrant and mature film market (Zhou, 2023), and these kinds of interactions only enhance its influence. The "Korean wave" or "Hallyu" (Nichasuk, 2020) is a well-known phenomenon, and moments like these play a significant role in its ongoing growth
Summary
Cruise's visit successfully merged promotion of "Mission: Impossible" with genuine cultural exchange, creating a memorable and impactful experience for both the actor, BTS's Jin, and fans worldwide. This approach could serve as a model for future collaborations between Hollywood and the Korean entertainment industry.
referred website
(https://m.koreaherald.com/article/10492387
-Reported by Hansika Arun
Intern at The Korean Academy
Korean News Analysis & Reporting
