Return to Seoul Ending Explained, Cast and Trailer
by Sona
Updated Jul 05, 2023
Return to Seoul
"Return to Seoul" is a compelling drama film from 2022, written and directed by Davy Chou. The story follows a 25-year-old French adoptee, portrayed by Ji-Min Park, as she embarks on a journey to South Korea in search of her biological parents.
Having premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival's Un Certain Regard section on May 22, 2022, "Return to Seoul" garnered critical acclaim. It was chosen as Cambodia's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 95th Academy Awards and made it to the shortlist announced in December, further establishing its recognition and impact in the film industry.
Return to Seoul Ending Explained
In the ending of "Return to Seoul," there is a glimmer of hope for Freddie, the film's protagonist, who has been grappling with profound emotional turmoil. While the exact trajectory of Freddie's future remains uncertain, the closing scenes hint at a potential shift in her perspective and a path towards healing.
By embracing her Korean identity and confronting the pain of abandonment, Freddie takes significant strides in breaking free from her destructive patterns. However, the film wisely leaves room for interpretation, acknowledging that complete resolution and a fully transformed life may not be easily attainable for Freddie.
This open-ended conclusion invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of her journey and consider the ongoing challenges she may encounter as she strives for personal growth and fulfillment.
Return to Seoul Recap
"Return to Seoul" follows the journey of Freddie, a 25-year-old French adoptee, as she travels to South Korea in search of her biological parents. Director Davy Chou masterfully explores Freddie's emotional complexities and troubled past, highlighting her struggles with intimacy and vulnerability. The film takes viewers on a captivating exploration of identity, family, and the lingering effects of abandonment.
Park Ji-Min delivers a nuanced performance, bringing Freddie's character to life with depth and authenticity. Through a series of encounters and revelations, Freddie navigates her way through the unfamiliar terrain of her birth country, grappling with the expectations and complexities of her newfound connections. As the story unfolds, Freddie's journey becomes a powerful examination of self-discovery and the long-lasting impact of adoption.
Return to Seoul Cast
Cast
Character
Ji-Min Park
Frédérique "Freddie" Benoît
Oh Kwang-rok
Freddie's biological father
Guka Han
Tena
Kim Sun-young
Freddie's biological aunt
Yoann Zimmer
Maxime
Louis-Do de Lencquesaing
André
Hur Ouk-Sook
Freddie's biological grandmother
Émeline Briffaud
Lucie
Régine Vial Goldberg
Freddie's adoptive mother
Cho-woo Choi
Freddie's biological mother
Return to Seoul Review
"Return to Seoul" is a remarkable film that delves into the complexities of identity and the search for belonging. Director Davy Chou masterfully captures the emotional nuances of Freddie's journey, navigating themes of abandonment, family, and self-discovery. Park Ji-Min delivers a captivating performance, portraying Freddie with depth and authenticity.
The film strikes a delicate balance between introspection and empathy, inviting audiences to explore the inner turmoil and struggles faced by adoptees. Chou's direction and storytelling evoke a range of emotions, immersing viewers in Freddie's world and leaving a lasting impact. "Return to Seoul" is a thought-provoking and poignant character study, showcasing the power of cinema to illuminate the universal themes of identity and connection.
Return to Seoul Plot
Freddie, a 25-year-old adopted woman from South Korea, unexpectedly finds herself in Seoul after her flight to Tokyo is canceled. Through her encounters with Tena, a hotel desk clerk, and a brief romantic encounter, Freddie begins to entertain the idea of searching for her biological parents.
She visits the Hammond Adoption Center and requests telegrams to be sent to her parents, leading her to meet her biological father in Gunsan. Despite initial discomfort, Freddie stays with her father's family for three nights before feeling overwhelmed by his persistent attention.
Two years later, Freddie is living in Seoul, still grappling with the complexities of her identity and relationships. Eventually, she reconnects with her biological mother and finds solace in their reunion. The film concludes with Freddie finding comfort in music, symbolizing her personal growth and resilience.
Return to Seoul Trailer
Return to Seoul Ending Explained: FAQs
"Return to Seoul" follows the story of Freddie, a 25-year-old French adoptee, as she travels to South Korea to search for her biological parents.
Yes, Freddie reunites with her biological father and later connects with her biological mother, leading to significant personal revelations.
The cast includes Ji-Min Park as Freddie, Oh Kwang-rok as Freddie's biological father, Guka Han as Tena, Kim Sun-young as Freddie's biological aunt, and more.
The ending of the film offers a glimmer of hope for Freddie as she experiences personal growth and begins to reconcile with her past, leaving her future open to interpretation.