Way Back Home (2013 Film)

Way Back Home (Korean: 집으로 가는 길; RR: Jibeuro Ganeun Gil) is a 2013 South Korean drama film directed by Pang Eun-jin. The film is based on the true story of Jang Mi-jung, a South Korean woman who was arrested at Orly Airport in Paris, France, in 2004, after being tricked into transporting cocaine. She subsequently served time in prison on the French island of Martinique before returning to South Korea in 2006.

Promotional poster for the film Way Back Home.

Plot

The story follows Song Jung-yeon (Jeon Do-yeon) and her husband Im Jong-bae (Ko Soo), who operate a small car repair shop. Their lives are upended after a friend of Jong-bae commits suicide, leaving Jong-bae responsible for a significant loan he had guaranteed. To settle the debt, the couple loses their business and home, forcing them into financial desperation.

Seeking a way to recover, Jung-yeon is convinced by an acquaintance to smuggle gemstones into Paris, believing the risk is minimal. Upon arriving at the airport, she is arrested for transporting cocaine. The film depicts her harrowing legal struggle and imprisonment in Martinique, while her husband works tirelessly from South Korea to secure her release.

Actress Jeon Do-yeon — Jeon Do-yeon portrays Song Jung-yeon.

Production

The film was directed by Pang Eun-jin, who also contributed to the screenplay alongside Yoon Jin-ho and Lee Jung-hwa. Principal photography for the project began on January 26, 2013. The role of the husband, Im Jong-bae, was initially offered to actor Ha Jung-woo; however, he withdrew from the production due to scheduling conflicts resulting from filming delays.

Actor Ko Soo — Ko Soo portrays Im Jong-bae.

Actress Kang Ji-woo — Kang Ji-woo portrays the couple's daughter, Hye-rin.

Scene from the film — A scene from the production of Way Back Home.