White Night (2009 South Korean Film)

White Night (Korean: 백야행 : 하얀 어둠 속을 걷다; RR: Baekyahaeng) is a 2009 South Korean mystery film directed by Park Shin-woo. The film is an adaptation of the novel Byakuyako by the Japanese author Keigo Higashino.

Plot

The story follows a murder investigation that spans over a decade. After a man is found dead shortly following his release from prison, Detective Han Dong-su (played by Han Suk-kyu) begins an investigation that links the crime to an unsolved homicide from 14 years prior. As the detective delves deeper into the case, he becomes convinced that Yo-han (Ko Soo), the son of the victim from the original murder, is connected to the recent death. Simultaneously, the narrative focuses on Mi-ho (Son Ye-jin), who is preparing to marry a corporate executive. An assistant, Si-young (Lee Min-jung), uncovers links between Mi-ho's past and the cold case, while observing Yo-han's persistent presence near Mi-ho.

Production

The film was directed by Park Shin-woo and produced by Kang Woo-suk. Filming commenced on March 1, 2009. During the casting process, actor Han Suk-kyu initially declined the role of Detective Han Dong-su, citing the age difference between himself and the character. Director Park Shin-woo personally met with the actor to persuade him to join the project. At a press conference held in Seoul on October 21, 2009, the director noted that he and lead actress Son Ye-jin had been members of the same high school study group.

Release and Reception

White Night was released in South Korea on November 19, 2009. During its opening weekend (November 20–22), the film reached number two at the South Korean box office, selling 292,504 tickets across 480 screens, which accounted for 17.2% of total ticket sales for that period. In 2010, Lee Min-jung received the Best New Actress award at the 30th Critics Choice Awards for her performance in the film.