Socialphobia (2015 Film)

Socialphobia (Korean: 소셜포비아; RR: Sosyeolpobia) is a 2015 South Korean mystery film written and directed by Hong Seok-Jae. Produced by KAFA Films, the movie examines the dark side of internet culture, specifically focusing on the intersection of online anonymity, cyberbullying, and real-world consequences.

Promotional poster for the film Socialphobia.

Plot

The story follows Ji-Woong (Byun Yo-Han) and Yong-Min (Lee Joo-Seung), two aspiring police officers preparing for their civil service exams. Their lives take a turn when they become incensed by a series of malicious comments left by an internet user known as "Re-Na" regarding the death of a soldier. Seeking justice, they and a group of other internet users track down Re-Na's real-world identity and address. The group decides to pay her a surprise visit to demand an apology, choosing to livestream the encounter online. Upon arriving at her apartment, they discover a situation far more complex and disturbing than they anticipated.

Cast

Actor Byun Yo-Han — Byun Yo-Han, who portrays Ji-Woong.

Actor Lee Joo-Seung — Lee Joo-Seung, who portrays Yong-Min.

The film features an ensemble cast including:

Byun Yo-Han as Ji-Woong
Lee Joo-Seung as Yong-Min
Ha Yoon-Kyung as Min Ha-Young (Re-Na)
Ryu Jun-Yeol as Yang-Ge
Yoo Dae-Hyung as Byeong-Moo
Park Keun-Rok as Moon-Hyeok

Production and Release

Socialphobia was produced by KAFA Films and distributed by CGV Arthouse. It had its world premiere at the 19th Busan International Film Festival in October 2014, where it was screened in the "Korean Cinema Today: Vision" section. The film was officially released in South Korean theaters on March 12, 2015. It subsequently appeared at various international events, including the 14th New York Asian Film Festival and the 19th Fantasia Film Festival.