Program Note
The late 1990s to early 2000s is widely regarded as a renaissance era for Korean cinema: a time that saw an outpouring of distinctive, high-quality films. Bungee Jumping of Their Own stands out as a well-crafted work that blends poignant romance with elements of fantasy, using its formal sophistication to draw viewers seamlessly into its world. Lee Byung Hun plays Seo In-woo, a man whose love for his soulmate Tae-hee (Lee Eun Joo) transcends death itself, delivering one of his most emotionally nuanced performances. At a time when homosexuality remained a taboo subject in Korean media, the film’s bold incorporation of homosexuality into a narrative of reincarnation and eternal love owes much to Kim Dae-seung’s elegant direction, Lee Eun Joo’s unique presence, and Lee Byung Hun’s grounded, naturalistic performance. (CHOI Eun-young)