Because I Hate Korea

Synopsis

Because I Hate Korea (한국이 싫어서) is a 2024 South Korean coming-of-age drama film starring Ko A-sung. The story follows a young woman disillusioned with the pressures and rigid expectations of contemporary Korean society. Feeling alienated by the relentless competition, social norms, and the struggle to find personal identity, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The film poignantly explores themes such as societal conformity, youth disenchantment, and the search for freedom in a highly structured environment. With a nuanced portrayal of modern Korean youth culture, the narrative provides an intimate glimpse into the internal conflicts faced by those caught between tradition and personal aspiration.

Cast

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  Ko A-sung

  Joo Kye-na

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  Kim Woo-kyum

  Song Ji-myoung

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  Joo Jong-hyuk

  Park Jae-in

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  Park Seung-hyun

  Park Kyung-yoon

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  Lee Sang-hee

  Kye-na's Father

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  Oh Min-ae

  Kye-na's Mother

Reviews

Critics have given Because I Hate Korea a range of responses, generally praising its honest portrayal of youth frustration but also noting pacing issues. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 78% approval rating based on critic reviews, highlighting Ko A-sung’s compelling performance as a standout element. The review aggregator Metacritic gives it a score of 70, reflecting generally favorable reviews but acknowledging some critics felt the storyline was somewhat predictable. The New York Times praised the film’s "emotional depth and social commentary," writing that it "resonates with viewers navigating the pressures of modern society." However, Variety pointed out that "while the film's thematic concerns are timely and relatable, the narrative occasionally lacks momentum." IMDb users rate the movie an average of 7.2/10, commending its authentic atmosphere but some perceiving the plot as slow in parts. Overall, Because I Hate Korea is recognized as a thought-provoking, culturally insightful film that resonates especially with younger audiences grappling with self-identity in a demanding society.