Heartbreak Library (2008 Film)

Heartbreak Library (Korean: 그 남자의 책 198쪽; RR: Keu Namjaui Chaek 198Jjeuk) is a 2008 South Korean romantic drama film directed by Kim Jeong-Kwon. The film, which features a screenplay by Na Hyeon and Park Eun-Young, explores themes of loss and discovery within the setting of a public library.

Poster for the film Heartbreak Library — Promotional poster for Heartbreak Library.

Plot

The story follows Eun-Soo (played by Eugene), a librarian who discovers that a patron named Jun-Oh (Lee Dong-Wook) has been systematically tearing page 198 out of various books in the library. Initially suspecting vandalism, Eun-Soo eventually learns the motivation behind his actions. Jun-Oh's girlfriend left him abruptly, leaving behind only a cryptic note instructing him to look at page 198 of the books she frequented. Driven by grief and a desperate need for closure, Jun-Oh visits the library to search for a hidden message. Eun-Soo, moved by his plight, decides to assist him in deciphering the mystery.

Lee Dong-Wook as Jun-Oh — Lee Dong-Wook portrays the character Jun-Oh.

Cast

The film features the following primary cast members:

Lee Dong-Wook as Jun-Oh
Eugene as Cho Eun-Soo
Ki Joo-Bong as Hong-Soo
Park Hwi-Sun as a bar exam student
Jo Ah-Ra as Sun-Mi
Yoo Da-In as the neighborhood girl
Ko Su-Hee as Miss Paeng

Eugene as Cho Eun-Soo — Eugene portrays the librarian Cho Eun-Soo.

Production and Release

Heartbreak Library was produced by Lee Ho-Yeon, Park Jun-Hong, and Baek Eun-Jin, with cinematography by Yun Myeong-Sik. The film held its world premiere at the 13th Pusan International Film Festival in October 2008, where it was screened as part of the Korean Cinema Today - Panorama section. It received a theatrical release in South Korea on October 23, 2008, with a total runtime of 99 minutes.

Scene from Heartbreak Library — A scene featuring the leads in the library setting.