Almost Love (2006 Film)

Almost Love (Korean: 청춘만화; RR: Cheongchun Manhwa) is a 2006 South Korean romantic comedy film directed by Lee Han. The film explores the evolving relationship between two childhood friends who struggle to define their feelings for one another as they pursue their respective career ambitions.

Almost Love movie poster — Promotional poster for the 2006 film Almost Love.

Plot

The story follows Ji-hwan (Kwon Sang-woo) and Dal-rae (Kim Ha-neul), who have been close friends since childhood. Ji-hwan aspires to become a professional action star, inspired by Jackie Chan, while Dal-rae dreams of becoming an actress. Despite their constant bickering and knowledge of each other's personal insecurities, they maintain a deep, supportive bond.

The dynamic between the two shifts when they begin dating other people. Dal-rae enters a relationship with Young-hoon, a student representative and athlete, while Ji-hwan begins seeing Ji-min. As they navigate these new romantic connections, the pair must confront the reality of their long-standing friendship and whether their feelings for each other extend beyond platonic boundaries.

Kim Ha-neul, who portrays the lead character Jin Dal-rae.

Production

The film was directed by Lee Han, who also contributed to the screenplay. It was produced by Popcorn Film and distributed by Showbox. The production budget was approximately US$ 3.5 million. The film features cinematography by Lee Jun-kyu and action direction by Won Jin.

Lee Sang-woo, who plays the character Moon Young-hoon.

Jang Mi In Nae, who plays the character Ji-min.

Cast

Kwon Sang-woo as Lee Ji-hwan
Kim Ha-neul as Jin Dal-rae
Lee Sang-woo as Moon Young-hoon
Jang Mi In Nae as Ji-min
Park Ji-bin as young Ji-hwan
Jung Min-a as young Dal-rae
Jeong Gyu-su as Ji-hwan's father

Park Ji-bin, who plays the younger version of Ji-hwan.

Jung Min-a, who plays the younger version of Dal-rae.

Jeong Gyu-su, who plays Ji-hwan's father.

Scene from Almost Love — A scene from the film.