“My Name Is Loh Kiwan” Reviews, Characters and Storyline

“My Name Is Loh Kiwan” is a 2024 South Korean drama movie penned and directed by Kim Hee-jin, featuring Song Joong-ki and Choi Sung-eun. Inspired by Cho Hae-jin’s fictional novel “I Met Loh Kiwan” from 2019, the film delves into the journey of a North Korean defector seeking sanctuary in Belgium. Available on Netflix in specific areas, the movie debuted on March 1, 2024, offering an exploration of the protagonist’s trials and tribulations.

CHARACTERS

• Song Joong-ki portrays Loh Kiwan, a defector from North Korea.
  • Choi Sung-eun takes on the role of Marie Lee, a former shooting athlete.
  • Kim Sung-ryung appears as Ok-hee, Kiwan’s mother.
  • Seo Hyun-woo plays Ri Eun-cheol, Loh Kiwan’s maternal uncle.
  • Lee Sang-hee portrays Seon-ju, a Korean-Chinese immigrant whom Ki-wan encounters at a Belgian factory.
  • Jo Han-chul embodies Lee Youn-sung, Marie’s father.
  • Lee Il-hwa depicts Jeong-ju, Marie’s mother.
  • Waël Sersoub appears as Cyril, a bar owner in Belgium.

STORYLINE

Kiwan (portrayed by Song Joong-ki) undergoes a harrowing journey as a North Korean defector who escapes to China with his mother, only to endure separation at the hands of the stringent Chinese authorities. Forced to embark on yet another perilous journey, Kiwan eventually finds himself in Brussels, a land vastly unfamiliar, especially amidst the biting winter. In this foreign terrain, he grapples with homelessness and the relentless struggle to survive. However, fueled by his mother’s dying wish for him to seek refuge and freedom, Kiwan perseveres, determined to find a safe sanctuary.

Amidst his trials, a glimmer of hope emerges when Kiwan crosses paths with Marie (portrayed by Choi Sung-eun), a former Belgian athlete who also faces adversity. Together, they confront their individual challenges, finding solace and strength in their shared determination to overcome their circumstances and strive for a brighter future. As they navigate the complexities of their newfound alliance, Kiwan and Marie forge a profound bond rooted in resilience and mutual support, embarking on a journey towards hope and redemption in the face of daunting odds.