“The Man Standing Next”
tells the story of Go Taek-il, a rebellious young man who leaves home after a heated argument with his mother.
He finds work at a local Chinese restaurant run by the imposing but kind-hearted Geo-seok.
Meanwhile, Taek-il’s best friend, Sang-pil, desperate for money, takes a job at a ruthless loan shark company. Initially, Sang-pil is drawn to the easy money, but he soon discovers the dark underbelly of the industry, facing violence and witnessing the devastating impact of predatory lending on vulnerable individuals, including Taek-il’s own mother.
As Taek-il navigates the challenges of adulthood, he encounters unexpected kindness and faces the harsh realities of life. He learns about responsibility, compassion, and the importance of standing up for those in need, while confronting the consequences of his impulsive actions.
“The Man Standing Next” is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of friendship, family, and the complexities of the adult world.
