The Classic (2003 film)

The Classic is a 2003 South Korean romantic drama film directed by Kwak Jae-yong. The film explores themes of first love, fate, and intergenerational connection through the stories of a mother and daughter, Joo-hee and Ji-hye.

The plot centers around Ji-hye (Son Ye-jin), a college student who, while cleaning her childhood home, discovers a box of old letters and a diary belonging to her mother, Joo-hee (also played by Son Ye-jin). Through these documents, Ji-hye learns about her mother's poignant and ultimately tragic love story with Joon-ha (Cho Seung-woo) in the summer of 1968.

As Ji-hye reads about her mother's past, parallels begin to emerge between Joo-hee's experiences and Ji-hye's own burgeoning feelings for Sang-min (Jo In-sung), a fellow student who is also the object of her best friend Soo-kyeong's affection. The film interweaves the two love stories, highlighting the similarities and differences in their respective challenges and resolutions.

The Classic is known for its melodramatic storyline, nostalgic atmosphere, and emotional impact. It features iconic scenes of Korean countryside and university life, and utilizes a distinctive soundtrack to enhance the sentimental tone. The film was commercially successful in South Korea and has gained a significant international following, particularly within East Asia, due to its themes of enduring love and destiny. The film's narrative structure, with its dual storylines, and its focus on the enduring power of first love are key aspects of its popularity.