Wasteland

Set during a tumultuous period in Korean history, Wasteland tells the story of Jeom-Rye, the daughter of a poor farmer. After giving birth to a son with a Japanese policeman, she marries Park Hang-Koo and finds happiness until the Korean War disrupts their lives. Jeom-Rye faces new challenges when her husband dies, and she encounters Flanders, a U.S. Army lieutenant, resulting in yet another child born from a complicated relationship.

The narrative follows Jeom-Rye's journey as she navigates her past and present, ultimately portraying her strength and wisdom in the face of adversity. The film captures the emotional landscape of a nation in turmoil, focusing on the intersecting lives of characters shaped by war and historical context. As Jeom-Rye and her daughter Se-Yeon confront their identities and relationships with those connected to their past, the film raises poignant questions about heritage and belonging.