Jang Uk-je

Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea, Bun-yi is sold into marriage as the wife of Young-gu, the intellectually disabled son of a wealthy family involved in secretly funding the independence movement. As she endures hardship and family conflict, betrayal from within the household leads to her expulsion. After Korea’s liberation, both Bun-yi and Young-gu struggle to rebuild their lives separately. Years later, through perseverance and changing fortunes, the fractured family is reunited, leading to reconciliation and renewal. Film adaptation of the 1972 KBS TV series A Journey

Following his wife’s dying wish, Young-gu moves to Seoul with his young son and a loyal servant, Yong-pal. Struggling to adapt to city life, he encounters scams, hardship, and fleeting moments of connection, only to lose what little stability he builds. Placing his hopes in his son’s education, Young-gu perseveres until the boy succeeds in school. Encouraged by a teacher’s advice, he ultimately chooses to return to the countryside, seeking a more honest and stable life.

After the Korean War, Young-gu and his family establish a successful restaurant in Seoul. Their son grows up to graduate from university and eventually becomes a prosecutor, fulfilling his parents’ hopes for upward mobility. Proud but socially awkward, Young-gu becomes involved in a series of comedic situations that test those around him. Over time, his sincerity wins people over, and the family looks ahead to a stable and happy future.