Jahyo, a senior in high school, loses his virginity to his classmate while his friend, Soo-in, falls for a teacher. [Plum Blossom] follows the struggles of these teenagers through the pain of love and growth. Even in college, the two continue their sexual expedition and dream of a getaway. Dealing with scandalous topics at the time such as sexual encounters of adolescents and love between teacher and student, the film catches your attention by focusing on the progression of youthful desires with piercing poignancy. Unlike the director’s other films from the 1980’s, the youngsters of the new generation are more outspoken and honest about their yearnings, and the director skillfully captures the difference. (LEE Sang-yong)