“In 2024, the South Korean drama film ‘My Name Is Loh Kiwan’ helmed by Kim Hee-jin, features Song Joong-ki and Choi Sung-eun in leading roles. Adapted from Cho Hae-jin’s 2019 novel ‘I Met Loh Kiwan,’ it follows the journey of a North Korean defector seeking shelter in Belgium. Premiering on Netflix in specific areas on March 1, 2024.”
CHARACTERS
Main:
- 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.
Supporting Characters:
- People around Kiwan:
- Kim Sung-ryung plays Ok-hee, Kiwan’s mother.
- Seo Hyun-woo portrays Ri Eun-cheol, Loh Kiwan’s maternal uncle.
- Lee Sang-hee depicts Seon-ju, a Korean-Chinese immigrant Kiwan encounters at a Belgian factory.
- People around Marie:
- Jo Han-chul appears as Lee Youn-sung, Marie’s father.
- Lee Il-hwa acts as Jeong-ju, Marie’s mother.
- Waël Sersoub takes on the role of Cyril, a bar owner in Belgium.
STORYLINE
Kiwan (played by Song Joong-ki) is a North Korean defector who undergoes a harrowing journey, initially escaping to China with his mother only to be forcibly separated from her by the uncompromising Chinese authorities. In a desperate bid for survival, Kiwan flees once more, finding himself in the unfamiliar streets of Brussels, where the bitter cold of winter compounds his struggles. Despite facing homelessness and the daily battle for sustenance, Kiwan clings to the poignant last wish of his dying mother: to find sanctuary where he can live without fear. Amidst his darkest hours, a glimmer of hope emerges when he encounters Marie (portrayed by Choi Sung-eun), a former Belgian athlete grappling with her own adversity. Together, they navigate their distinct challenges, forming an unbreakable bond as they strive for a brighter tomorrow.
Against the backdrop of their individual trials, Kiwan and Marie’s paths converge, uniting them in a shared quest for a life unburdened by hardship. Their partnership becomes a testament to resilience and solidarity as they confront the harsh realities of displacement and uncertainty. Together, they confront the formidable barriers that stand in the way of their aspirations, drawing strength from each other’s courage and determination. In their alliance, they discover not only companionship but also the power of collective hope, forging ahead in pursuit of a future where they can reclaim their dignity and freedom.