A Man Who Was Superman

The story oscillates between the Gwangju Uprising era and modern-day Korea. Older memories reveal the roots of Lee Hyun-suk's trauma, while contemporary footage shows the impact of his acts on a watching public. The film uses these time layers to explore how past events continue to shape present lives.

Gwangju, South Korea serves as the primary setting, anchoring a narrative that moves between a present-day documentary project and memories of the 1980s uprising. The city is portrayed as a community shaped by trauma, courage, and collective memory. Its streets and institutions become stage for acts of small heroism and social change.

🪞 Reality vs Illusion

The film blurs lines between what is real and what is cinematic fiction, as Soo-jung reshapes a real man’s actions into a compelling documentary. Lee’s belief that he is Superman sits at the center of this tension, challenging the audience to distinguish truth from myth. The story asks whether a constructed narrative can still inspire genuine hope.

🕯️ Sacrifice

Lee Hyun-suk’s actions are framed as selfless acts intended to help others, culminating in a fatal moment during a rescue. The crowd’s initial inaction contrasts with his final courage, highlighting the cost of heroism. Soo-jung’s subsequent transformation suggests that meaning can emerge from witnessing sacrifice rather than pursuing sensational headlines.

🧠 Memory & Trauma

Trauma from the Gwangju events and a childhood injury fuel Lee’s belief that he is Superman. The film uses flashbacks to show how memory distorts perception and guides behavior. The emblematic line about small keys and strength underscores how memory can unlock empathy and shift priorities.