South Korea · Film · 2004
How to Keep My Love
Synopsis
How to Keep My Love follows Hyun-joo, a woman in her late twenties who has spent seven years with her boyfriend So-hoon, an employee at a pest-extermination company. He is steady rather than exciting, and their relationship has settled into a comfortable routine while Hyun-joo keeps waiting for a proposal that never quite arrives.
The story turns when So-hoon becomes stuck in an elevator with Eun Da-young, one of Korea's most popular movie stars. The chance encounter pulls him toward a glamorous world Hyun-joo cannot easily compete with, and the film builds its comedy around her attempt to hold on to a seven-year relationship suddenly threatened by a far more famous rival.
Directed and co-written by Park Je-hyun, alongside writers Seon-mi Kim and Seok-jun Lee, the film stars Kim Jung-eun as Hyun-joo and Kim Sang-kyung as So-hoon, with Oh Seung-hyun as Eun Da-young. A young Park Eun-bin appears in an early role as Hyun-joo, years before headlining her own dramas. The film was released in South Korean theaters on July 16, 2004, by CJ Entertainment.
Rather than building toward a scandal, How to Keep My Love plays as an everyday romantic comedy about jealousy, self-doubt, and reconciliation between two ordinary people. It holds a 6.0 rating on IMDb from audience votes and is credited with one award win, a modest but lasting footnote for a film about choosing loyalty over glamour.
How to Keep My Love cast
Best scenes
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The emotional rooftop argument between Hyun Joo and So Hoon shows raw vulnerability.
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Hyun Joo’s fantasy of confronting the glamorous actress blends humor and jealousy.
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So Hoon’s romantic proposal attempt is awkward but heartwarming.
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The scene where Hyun Joo breaks down in front of her class is deeply moving.
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A montage of happy moments showing their years-long relationship adds nostalgic charm.
Filming locations
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Shot primarily in Seoul, capturing modern cityscapes and cozy neighborhoods.
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Romantic scenes filmed near the Han River, enhancing emotional depth.
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Hyun Joo’s school setting was a real elementary school in suburban Seoul.
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Several indoor shots were done at actual film studio sets to mirror So Hoon’s job.
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A trendy café scene was shot in the Hongdae district, known for its youth culture.
Visual design and costumes
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Kim Jung Eun’s outfits reflect a cheerful, everyday teacher vibe, simple yet stylish.
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Contrast between Hyun Joo’s modest look and Eun Da Young’s glamorous attire symbolizes conflict.
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The film uses soft lighting and pastel tones to reflect romantic tension and warmth.
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Set design balances homely interiors with high-end entertainment industry backdrops.
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Costume progression subtly showcases Hyun Joo’s emotional transformation.
Themes and messages
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Explores the fragility of long-term relationships in modern life.
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Challenges the notion of trust and temptation when success brings new attention.
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Highlights the inner strength of women who fight for love without losing self-respect.
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Portrays how communication and honesty are key to enduring love.
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Reflects how fame can distort personal relationships and create emotional distance.
Interesting facts
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Premiered in South Korean theaters on July 16, 2004, distributed by CJ Entertainment.
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Holds an IMDb rating of 6.0/10 from around 230 votes.
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Credited with 1 award win, according to IMDb's awards tally.
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Carries a 15+ content rating (ages 15 and up).
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A young Park Eun-bin appears in an early role as Hyun-joo, years before headlining her own dramas.
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