The First Lap (2017 Film)

The First Lap (Korean: 초행; RR: Chohaeng) is a 2017 South Korean drama film directed by Kim Dae-Hwan. The film examines the dynamics of a long-term couple navigating the pressures of adulthood and familial expectations.

Plot

The story follows Soo-Hyun (played by Cho Hyun-Chul) and Ji-Young (played by Kim Sae-Byuk), a couple who have been living together for six years. Their relationship reaches a turning point when Ji-Young suspects she is pregnant. This development prompts the couple to visit their respective parents, leading to a series of encounters that highlight the generational gaps and societal expectations regarding marriage and stability in contemporary South Korea.

Cast

Kim Sae-Byuk as Ji-Young
Cho Hyun-Chul as Soo-Hyun
Ki Joo-Bong as Ji-Young's father
Jo Kyung-Sook as Ji-Young's mother
Gil Hae-Yeon as Soo-Hyun's mother
Jung Do-Won as Min-Hyuk
Ryoo Je-Seung as Dong-Wook
Woo Yong-Hee

Production and Release

The film was directed by Kim Dae-Hwan, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Jang Woo-Jin. The film had its world premiere on April 29, 2017, at the Jeonju International Film Festival. It was subsequently released in South Korean theaters on December 7, 2017, with distribution handled by Indie Plug. The film has a runtime of 100 minutes.