A still from “Love in the Big City” by filmmaker Lee Eon-hee is shown in this photo provided by Plus M Entertainment. (Image courtesy of Yonhap) SEOUL, Sept. 24 (Korea Bizwire) — Being “different” is often celebrated in words.
But in reality, many still face exclusion for not fitting in. The coming-of-age film “Love in the Big City” challenges this notion by following the 13-year journey of two endearing characters, Jae-hee (Kim Go-eun) and Heung-soo (Noh Sang-hyun). Based on Park Sang-young’s novel of the same name, it explores how their unique personalities and experiences set them apart in a conformist society and yet also highlights the power of embracing one’s individuality in a world that often sidelines those who don’t conform.
A hard-drinker, heavy-smoker and frequent clubber, Jae-hee is a hopeless romantic who doesn’t play games when it comes to love. Her unconventional and carefree lifestyle often places her at the center of unfounded gossip, drawing both admirers and haters alike. In contrast to Jae-hee, Heung-soo keeps things to himself, living in constant fear of his sexuality being revealed.
Ever since his mother accidentally saw him with another man, he has grown more withdrawn, making every effort to hide his true identity. Then one day, Jae-hee unexpectedly catches Heung-soo kissing a man in a back alley in Itaewon, a neighborhood famous for its nightlife. To his surprise, Jae-hee reacts with complete ease, accepting him for who he is wi.