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Kim Go Eun Befriends a Gay Man in "Love in the Big City" as Korean Netizens Share Mixed Reviews


Love in the Big City
"Love in the Big City" Official Poster

On October 1, Love in the Big City premiered, starring Kim Go Eun (Little Women 2022) and Noh Sang Hyun (Pachinko 2 2024). This highly anticipated film isn't your typical rom-com, offering deeper themes of identity and love.


Adapted from Park Sang Young’s bestselling novel, the film also debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Lee Eon Hee, it quickly gained attention for its unique take on love and friendship.


A Refreshing Take on Love and Connection


In the film, Kim Go Eun plays Jae Hee, a free-spirited woman caught in gossip. Noh Sang Hyun’s Heung Soo is a man struggling to keep his sexual identity hidden.



Their paths cross unexpectedly, leading to a bond that defies traditional romantic narratives. Instead of focusing on romance, the film dives into the deeper connections between people.


This portrayal of friendship as a higher form of love challenges the usual expectations of a love story. It invites viewers to rethink what love really means in a world full of prejudice.


Kim Go Eun’s Journey with Jae Hee


Kim Go Eun’s performance as Jae Hee has been praised for its emotional depth. In interviews, Kim shared how different she is from her character, yet she still managed to deliver an authentic portrayal.


To prepare for the role, Kim visited clubs for the first time, despite her character’s wild lifestyle. This helped her embody Jae Hee’s carefree nature, making the character relatable.



Kim also reflected on her connections with LGBTQ+ friends. She felt this experience helped her bring sincerity to the role, portraying the struggles Heung Soo faces in the film.


Despite a limited budget, the team worked tirelessly to finish shooting in two and a half months. Kim noted how this added pressure made the cast more determined.


Fan Reactions: A Movie That Resonates Deeply


Fans have embraced the film's message of friendship and individuality. One fan on X mentioned, “Friendship is a higher form of love than romantic love.”


Another fan described it as the best Korean movie of the year, praising its focus on respecting individuality. “It teaches us how to love ourselves for who we are,” they said.

 Here are a few reviews by the Korean Netizens:






Some found the film’s humor and emotional depth refreshing. As one viewer noted, “It’s a movie that makes you laugh, cry, and reflect all at once.”


The balance between humor and deep emotion sets this movie apart from typical romantic films. Fans continue to rave about how it defies expectations!


Why Love in the Big City Deserves More Recognition


While marketed as a rom-com, Love in the Big City is much more than that. The film tackles societal issues like LGBTQ+ acceptance and the struggles of being an outsider.




Kim Go Eun and Noh Sang Hyun’s powerful performances elevate the film beyond just a love story. It’s a celebration of friendship, resilience, and embracing individuality.


The movie shows how friendship can be just as powerful, if not more, than romantic love. This fresh perspective on relationships makes Love in the Big City a must-watch.


Are you excited to see Kim Go Eun and Noh Sang Hyun in Love in the Big City? Let us know your thoughts on their performances, and don't forget to follow Dojeon Media on social media for more updates!


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