Once Upon a Time (2008 South Korean Film)

Once Upon a Time (Korean: 원스어폰어타임) is a 2008 South Korean action-comedy film directed by Jeong Yong-ki. Set in the 1940s during the Japanese occupation of Korea, the film follows the exploits of a charismatic thief attempting to steal a legendary diamond.

Promotional poster for Once Upon a Time — Promotional poster for the film Once Upon a Time.

Plot

The story takes place in Seoul during the 1940s. A debonair thief known as Kanemura (Park Yong-woo) spends his nights stealing valuable jewels from the Japanese occupiers. He frequently visits a local bar to court a jazz singer named Haruko (Lee Bo-young). Unbeknownst to Kanemura, Haruko is also a legendary thief operating under the alias "Daehangwha."

The central conflict arises when the Japanese authorities prepare to export a 3,000-carat diamond, known as the "Light of the East," to Japan. A special party is held by the local Japanese commander to celebrate the jewel before its transport. Both Kanemura and Haruko independently target the diamond for their own heist.

Cast

The primary cast includes:

Park Yong-woo as Kanemura / Bong-gu
Lee Bo-young as Haruko / Choona-ja
Kim Eung-soo as the General
Kim Soo-hyun as Colonel Yamada

Production and Reception

The film was released on January 31, 2008, with a runtime of 110 minutes. It was distributed by CH Entertainment. In 2008, the film received the Silver Medal for Cinematography at the 31st Golden Cinematography Awards.

Scene from the film — A scene from the production.