Unlock the Story of the New Korean Movie “Land of Happiness”: A Journey Through Power and Betrayal

The new Korean movie “Land of Happiness,” starring Jo Jung Suk, the late actor Lee Sun Kyun, Yoo Jae Myung, and other prominent Korean stars, has captivated audiences. Let’s explore the story behind this film.

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Watch Korean Movie “Land of Happiness” Starring Jo Jung Suk and the Late Actor Lee Sun Kyun

Plot

Korean Movie “Land of Happiness” | HanCinema

On October 26, 1979, the South Korean president was assassinated. Just 30 minutes before this tragic event, Park Tae Joo received an order from his superior, the head of intelligence, to take action against the president’s bodyguards if there were shots.

Due to his involvement in the assassination case, Park Tae Joo, along with his superior and colleagues, now faces a military court. The primary question in court was whether Park Tae Joo’s actions constituted ‘pre-conspiracy for a coup’ or merely ‘obedience to orders.’ Passionate lawyer Jung In Hoo stepped forward to defend him and advocate for a fair trial. However, despite his efforts, he faces the worst political trial in Korea’s history.

Jeon Sang Doo, head of the Joint Investigation Department, harbored dangerous ambitions and saw October 26 as the ideal opportunity for a coup d’état. Tragically, the events between October 26 and December 12 culminated in the worst political event in Korea’s history—marking yet another dark chapter in its political landscape.

Based on A True Story

Jo Jung Suk and Lee Sun Kyun — Lee Sun Kyun and Jo Jung Suk on “Land of Happiness”

The new Korean movie “Land of Happiness” is based on actual events in South Korea from 1979 to 1980, specifically the assassination of President Park Chung Hee in October 1979 and the military coup led by Army General Chun Doo Hwan in December of the same year.

As the film revisits this real-life history, the director aims to adhere closely to historical records. Since the setting is rooted in a historical trial and focuses on the courtroom, many of the film’s scenes and dialogues are drawn from actual courtroom records and documentaries. The director sought to maintain a balanced perspective without favoring one side over the other.

Directed by a Talented Director

Land of Happiness Cast and Director | Yonhap — “Land of Happiness” Cast and Director | Yonhap.

“Land of Happiness” is directed by the talented Cho Chang Min, known for the hit film “Masquerade.” He successfully captures the historical context and prominently features key figures of the time, too. Additionally, the film showcases striking cinematography that establishes a somber visual atmosphere, reflecting the grim realities of the era.

Moreover, director Cho Chang Min remarked that the film’s main goal was to shed light on the life of Park Heung Joo, a real-life figure whose story inspired the creation of the film’s main character, Park Tae Joo (played by the late actor Lee Sun Kyun).

One of the Outstanding Last Films of the Late Actor Lee Sun Kyun

Lee Sun Kyun in Land of Happiness — The late actor Lee Sun Kyun in Korean movie “Land of Happiness” | CGV

The Korean movie “Land of Happiness” is one of the last movies released after actor Lee Sun Kyun passed away in December last year. Before this film, another that came out following the actor’s death was “Project Silence,” released on July 12, 2024.

In “Land of Happiness,” the late actor brilliantly showcased a side of himself that audiences had not seen in his previous roles. Moreover, the movie conveys deep emotional resonance for viewers. Besides being the late actor’s last film, it also portrays the struggle to protect a man who deserves to live.

Another Standout Performance by the Multi-Talented Jo Jung Suk

After starring in his recent comedy-drama movie “Pilot,” the multi-talented actor Jo Jung Suk has successfully brought his role as lawyer Jung In Hoo to life. The “Hospital Playlist” actor showcased a new level of acting skills that sets this role apart from his previous performances.

Korean Movie Enthusiasts’ Takeaways

After the “Land of Happiness” screening on September 3 at CGV, the writer briefly spoke with two passionate Korean movie enthusiasts, Siti Rosidah and Isna. They shared intriguing perspectives about the film and highly recommended it.

1. What did you think of Lee Sung Kyun’s performance in his final role? How did it affect your emotional experience of the film?

In my opinion, the late Lee Sun Kyun’s performance was excellent. He was an actor who was highly dedicated to his role and took a firm stance on his character. He is a member of the KCIA (NIS) army whose decisions will not change from beginning to end, even at the cost of himself and his family.

Watching the movie “Land of Happiness” brought emotions to the audience as it is a battle of fairness and unfairness in a significant decision, especially in the country’s case.
Siti Rosidah

As always, Lee Sun Kyun never disappoints in any of his performances. Each character is played perfectly, leaving his original identity so that we could call him by his role name. Apart from that, he indeed had a brilliant acting quality. He was involved in all genres of movies, so it’s heartbreaking that he left us so soon. I’m not his fan, so I don’t feel emotionally attached to him; however, his roles in his last two movies were outstanding.
Isna

2. Which character did you find the most compelling, and why?

The most interesting characters in the movie “Land of Happiness” are Park Tae Joo, who was involved in the assassination of the president on his superior’s orders on October 26, 1979, and Jeong In Hoo, the lawyer who defended him and found himself caught in a dire political situation.
Siti Rosidah

I find Jo Jung Suk’s portrayal of a lawyer who is initially ignorant and filled with intrigue but evolves into a proactive and idealistic individual to be very engaging. Additionally, Lee Sun Kyung’s character as a patriotic soldier also deserves a thumbs up.
Isna

3. What emotions did the film evoke in you during and after viewing?

I felt a surge of emotion during the three-tiered open trial, where the dominant power obscured and undermined the integrity of the defense attorney’s evidence.
Siti Rosidah

The conflict in this film centers on the greed for power and the awakening of the human spirit amid intense nationalism. This stimulates a mix of emotions in me: I feel annoyed by the excessive patriotism—something that may be challenging for those living in this time and place to grasp fully. I’m also saddened by the resulting dilemmas. However, I appreciate how the comedic elements are well-integrated, adding a lighter touch to the film’s heavy historical themes, making it still enjoyable to watch.

Isna

4. How did the direction and cinematography contribute to the overall atmosphere of the movie?

The film’s retro cinematography is excellent, particularly in the evidence-seeking investigations and military open court scenes. It captures a historically accurate representation without distorting the history.
Siti Rosidah

I think Korean films never fail in this aspect; as seen in this film, the atmosphere of military trials, prisons, and others is depicted with colors and proportions that effectively match the situation and conditions of that time.
Isna

I highly recommend this movie for those who like modern Korean history movies, especially those focused on politics and law in South Korea during 1979-1980, a period marked by chaos and darkness.
Siti Rosidah

Absolutely! Despite its historical backdrop, the film is entertaining and conveys an important moral message.
Isna

Finally, the Korean historical movie “Land of Happiness” is a remarkable work. It perfectly showcases an intriguing storyline and outstanding performances from its talented cast. Although the late actor Lee Sun Kyun is no longer with us, his immense talent and rich legacy continue to resonate, and his contributions to cinema will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Catch the captivating Korean film “Land of Happiness” at CGV starting September 4!