The Korean film “A Big Family” — A Quietly Moving Story
Directed by Yang Woo-seok, known for “The Attorney” and the “Steel Rain” series.
Starring the acclaimed actor Kim Yoon-seok and the versatile Lee Seung-gi, this is a gem of a film that will make you laugh and cry.
Story Overview
For 38 years, the father, Ham Mu-ok (Kim Yoon-seok), has run the shop on his own.
Meanwhile, his only son, Ham Mun-seok (Lee Seung-gi), once a promising elite medical student, suddenly abandoned everything to become a monk and left home.
One day, young people claiming to be his “unknown grandchildren” appear before Mu-ok. They are searching for their father, Mun-seok.
The arrival of these grandchildren creates a small crack in the fractured family ties that were on the verge of breaking, gradually restoring the warmth of what it means to be a “family” once again──.
There is no flashy drama. Just quiet, careful storytelling.
Within the ordinary flow of daily life lies a gentle, heartwarming emotion that slowly lights up the soul.
Direction and Screenplay:
A Perfect Balance of Realism and Humor
While grounded in realism, subtle touches of humor are delicately woven throughout, bringing warmth and comfort to the audience.
At first glance, it may seem like nothing much happens──
Yet the film gently reminds us that the most important things in life are quietly hidden within such everyday moments.
Main Cast and Characters
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Kim Yoon-seok (as Ham Mu-ok)
Owner of the traditional dumpling restaurant “Pyeongmanok.” Gruff and awkward, yet harboring deep love for his family beneath the surface.
(Selected works: “The Chaser”, “1987: When the Day Comes”, “Haemoo”) -
Lee Seung-gi (as Ham Mun-seok)
Mu-ok’s only son. A man who turned his back on society’s expectations and chose to live as a monk named “Mue (무애).”
(Selected works: “Vagabond”, “Gu Family Book”, “Love Forecast”) -
Kim Sung-kyun (as Bang Jeong-hwa)
General manager of “Pyeongmanok.” A presence who supports Mu-ok more than family.
(Selected works: “The Heirs”, “Elegant Friends”) -
Kang Han-na (as Han Ga-yeon)
Mun-seok’s former girlfriend from his university days. A woman who knows a hidden side of him.
(Selected works: “Mr. Sunshine”, “Start-Up”) -
Park Soo-young (as Monk Inhaeng)
A junior monk to Mun-seok. A supportive presence who stands by him in difficult times.
(Selected works: “Steel Rain”, “The Good Detective”) -
Kim Si-woo (as Min-guk)
A boy claiming to be Mun-seok’s son. He approaches Mu-ok with pure innocence.
(Selected works: “Flower of Evil”) -
Yoon Chae-na (as Min-seon)
A girl claiming to be Mun-seok’s daughter. Together with her brother, she meets Mu-ok and gradually deepens their bond.
(Selected works: “Hospital Playlist”) -
Lee Soon-jae (as the Head Monk)
The senior monk of the temple where Mun-seok serves. A mentor who guides him on his life path.
(Selected works: “Yi San”, “High Kick!”)
Conclusion: A Quiet, Lingering Warmth
This film never tries too hard to move its audience.
Instead, the awkward exchanges and subtle shifts in expression among the characters gently melt the viewer’s heart.
Family is not defined by blood alone.
Even when broken, human bonds can be gathered and restored once more.
What remains at the end is a quiet yet warm afterglow──
“About Family” is that kind of film.
After watching it, you will likely feel the urge to see someone dear to you.
Without a doubt, it is a highly recommended movie.
