Gye-na (Ko A-sung) hates Korea. As she contemplates her life in her late twenties, she sees only weariness and helplessness in the monotony of her existence. Although her devoted partner, Ji-myung (Kim Woo-kyum), treats her well, he can’t provide the type of happiness she craves. Additionally, the differing socioeconomic statuses of Gye-na’s and Ji-myung’s families creates an uncomfortable rift for her. Following a gathering with Ji-myung’s family, her discomfort evolves into sudden anger. Eventually, she abandons everything and embarks on a journey to New Zealand in search of a fresh start. There, she encounters kind friends, including Jae-in (Joo Jong-hyuk), while enjoying a tranquil life. Because I Hate Korea is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Jang Kang-myung, published in 2015. This new flm by director Jang Kun-jae, known for showcasing his talents across various domains such as directing and producing, including A Midsummer’s Fantasia, captures the ongoing concerns of the younger generation, personifed by Gye-na. The author encapsulates the novel’s central theme as ‘how to live,’ and the movie thoughtfully explores this question without resorting to quick solutions. Throughout the flm, cross-editing between Gye-na’s life in Korea and her experiences in New Zealand captivates the viewer, unveiling the intricate nuances of her emotions in each setting—frustration, desperation, and liberation—amidst distinct locations, climates, and societies. This dynamic approach infuses the entire movie with vitality. The result is a straightforward yet powerful ode to youth that captures the essence and sentiments of the younger generation, and an earnest exploration of the pursuit of happiness. (JUNG Hanseok)