Gabi (2012 Film)

Gabi (Korean: 가비) is a 2012 South Korean historical drama film directed by Chang Yoon-hyun. The title refers to the archaic Korean term for coffee, which was introduced to the country during the late Joseon Dynasty. The film is a fictionalized narrative set in the late 19th century, drawing inspiration from the novel Russian Coffee by Kim Tak-hwan, published in 2009.

Plot

The story follows Illichi (Joo Jin-mo) and Danya (Kim So-yeon), a pair of lovers who operate as swindlers in Russia, dealing in gold and coffee. After being captured by Russian forces, they are handed over to a Japanese officer named Sadako (Yoo-sun). The two are coerced into participating in a plot to assassinate King Gojong (Park Hee-soon), who is seeking refuge at the Russian legation following the assassination of his wife. The film centers on the political intrigue surrounding the formation of the Korean Empire and the introduction of coffee to the royal court.

Production

The film's production was marked by significant logistical and legal challenges. The initial budget was estimated at 10 billion KRW (approximately $8.8 million USD), but was later reduced to 5 billion KRW. Principal photography occurred between March 29, 2011, and September 2, 2011. Filming took place in South Korea from March through August 2011, followed by location shooting in Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia, in late August and early September.

Casting changes also impacted the production. Actress Lee Da-hae was originally cast as Danya but withdrew from the project. Kim So-yeon was subsequently cast in the role in March 2011. Following Lee's departure, the production company, Ocean Film, initiated legal action. On September 3, 2012, the Seoul Central District Court ruled that Lee Da-hae was liable for damages, ordering her to pay 21 million KRW (approximately $18,600 USD) for breaching a verbal agreement to participate in the film shortly before production commenced.