Single in Seoul
Single in Seoul is a captivating Korean romance film that brings together two emotionally scarred souls in the vibrant heart of Seoul. The story centers on Park Young Ho (played by the ever-charming Lee Dong Wook), a popular influencer and college lecturer known for his sharp insights on single life. Confident, successful, and fiercely independent, he thrives in solitude—until a fateful collaboration disrupts his routine. Enter Joo Hyun Jin (portrayed by the graceful Im Soo Jung), a reserved and sensitive editor working at a major publishing house. Tasked with producing an essay collection on singlehood, she enlists Young Ho as one of the featured writers. Their clashing perspectives on relationships and solitude spark more than just editorial debates—they begin to question everything they thought they knew about love, loneliness, and healing. As their professional partnership deepens, so does the emotional complexity between them. Surrounded by a colorful supporting cast including Esom as Hong Joo Ok, Lee Sang Yi as the eager intern Byung Soo, and Jang Hyun Sung as the publishing company president, the film paints a heartfelt portrait of modern relationships in South Korea’s bustling capital. Combining witty dialogue, relatable life moments, and undeniable chemistry between its leads, Single in Seoul explores the fragile beauty of opening your heart again. Whether you're a fan of romantic K-dramas or simply in love with emotional storytelling, this film promises laughter, tears, and a beautifully written love story you won’t forget.
Details
🙂 Native Title: 싱글 인 서울
🌎 Also Known As: Single in Sillou, Singgeul In Seoul
🎭 Genres: Romance, Drama
🏷 Tags: Editor Female Lead, Essayist Male Lead, Book Publishing, Opposites Attract, Emotional Healing, Office Romance, City Life, Second Chances
✍ Screenwriters: Lee Ji Min
🎬 Directors: Park Beom Soo
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Release Date: November 29, 2023
📺 Original Network: Theatrical Release (not a TV broadcast)
⏰ Duration: 103 minutes
🔞 Content Rating: 13+ – Teens 13 or older
Best Scenes
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💔 Young Ho and Hyun Jin’s silent moment in the bookstore—a visually powerful scene reflecting emotional distance and longing.
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📚 The essay pitch meeting between Young Ho and the editorial team cleverly highlights their clashing philosophies on love and being single.
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☔ The unexpected rooftop rain scene becomes a turning point for both leads, revealing vulnerability under the Seoul skyline.
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🖋 Young Ho’s live book talk offers emotional catharsis and introspection, captivating the audience and the editor alike.
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🍶 The quiet night at a local pojangmacha (street bar) adds intimacy, nostalgia, and cultural charm to the love story.
Filming Locations
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📖 Iconic independent bookstores in Seoul give the film its literary soul and authentic urban vibe.
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🌉 Hangang River parks and bridges are used to emphasize emotional transitions and quiet reflection.
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🏙 Trendy districts like Hongdae and Itaewon highlight modern single life in Korea.
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☕ Artistic cafes and vintage-themed offices add charm and aesthetic appeal to professional scenes.
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🌆 Night views of Seoul’s skyline are visually stunning, perfectly matching the characters’ inner journeys.
Visual Design and Costumes
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🎨 Soft, muted color palettes mirror the characters’ emotional states throughout the film.
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🧥 Lim Soo Jung’s wardrobe reflects quiet strength and professionalism with tailored pieces and neutral tones.
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👔 Lee Dong Wook’s fashion features relaxed yet polished styles, showcasing his confident single lifestyle.
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📘 Book cover aesthetics and interior design of editorial spaces highlight the creative backdrop of publishing.
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💡 The lighting choices balance warmth and coolness, shifting with relationship dynamics.
Themes and Messages
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💬 Being single isn’t lonely—it’s a choice the film explores with nuance and empathy.
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📘 Healing through storytelling and writing is a core message for both leads.
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🌿 Growth after heartbreak and rediscovering emotional connection is central to the plot.
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🧩 Different definitions of happiness challenge both societal norms and personal beliefs.
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❤️ Love doesn’t have to be loud—sometimes it’s in shared silences and unspoken understanding.
Interesting Facts
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📚 Real-life bestselling author Lee Ji Min wrote the screenplay, adding depth to the book-centered plot.
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🧑💻 The film went viral in Korea for its realistic portrayal of urban singlehood.
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🎞 It marked a much-anticipated on-screen reunion for Lee Dong Wook and Im Soo Jung, celebrated by K-drama fans.
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📸 Several scenes were filmed in actual working publishing houses and book cafes for authenticity.
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🏆 The film received praise for subverting traditional romance tropes, focusing more on personal healing than dramatic confession.
Awards
There is no publicly available information indicating that the Korean film Single in Seoul has received any awards. The film was released on November 29, 2023 , and it’s possible that it may be considered for future award nominations. For the most current updates on any accolades, it’s advisable to monitor official film award announcements and reputable entertainment news sources.
Real-Life Loves on Set
There is no publicly available information indicating that a real-life romantic relationship developed between the cast members of the Korean film Single in Seoul. Both lead actors, Lee Dong Wook and Im Soo Jung, have expressed mutual respect and professional admiration for each other during interviews and press events. For instance, Lee Dong Wook mentioned his desire to work with Im Soo Jung again after their brief collaboration in the drama “Search: WWW,” stating, “I had a good impression of Im Soo Jung, and I really wanted to act with her again. Luckily, the opportunity quickly came to me.” Similarly, Im Soo Jung has praised Lee Dong Wook’s relaxed attitude on set and his pleasant personality. However, these statements pertain strictly to their professional relationship, and there is no evidence to suggest a romantic involvement off-screen.
Trailer
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