City of the Rising Sun (1998 Film)
City of the Rising Sun (Korean: 태양은 없다; RR: Taeyangeun eobda) is a 1998 South Korean drama film directed by Kim Sung-Su. The film explores the lives of two young men struggling to find their place in society, highlighting themes of friendship, ambition, and the harsh realities of life in Seoul.
Plot
The story follows Do-chul (Jung Woo-Sung), a boxer whose career is hindered by recurring dizzy spells, and his friend Hong-gi (Lee Jung-Jae), a charismatic but unreliable con artist. While Do-chul struggles to maintain his professional boxing ambitions, Hong-gi frequently involves himself in get-rich-quick schemes that often lead to trouble for both men. Their bond is tested as they navigate personal setbacks, financial instability, and the consequences of Hong-gi's deceptive behavior.
Cast
- Jung Woo-Sung as Do-chul
- Lee Jung-Jae as Hong-gi
- Han Go-eun as Mimi
- Lee Beom-soo as Byeong-guk
- Kim Young-ho
- Ryoo Hyoun-kyoung
- Park Sung-woong
- Kwon Tae-won
- Kim Tae-hwan as Chang-min
- Lee Bong-kyu as the loan shark
Production
The film was directed by Kim Sung-Su, who co-wrote the screenplay with San Shim. It was released in South Korea on December 30, 1998, with a runtime of 108 minutes. The film is notable for featuring the early collaborations of actors Jung Woo-Sung and Lee Jung-Jae, who would go on to have significant careers in the South Korean film industry.