Bandhobi

Karim, a 27-year-old Bangladeshi, works in an industrial laundry in South Korea. His work permit is about to expire, and he has unresolved issues with his previous employer, Shin, who owes him wages and is unresponsive to his calls. Karim faces ongoing financial and legal uncertainty as he tries to resolve these problems.

Karim's wife remains in Bangladesh, worried about their financial struggles and Karim's inability to send money. The strained family situation creates emotional stress for Karim, who is eager to resolve his employment issues and reunite with his family.

Seventeen-year-old Min-seo is a social loner and conflicts with her mother, Eun-joo, who has a live-in lover, Ki-hong, with whom she plans to marry. Their financial situation is strained, preventing Min-seo from affording after-school classes, leading her to take an under-the-table job at a massage parlor.

To afford English classes, Min-seo takes a clandestine job at a massage parlor. She balances her studies and her secret work, navigating the challenges of her limited family income and social isolation.

On the first day of summer vacation, Karim drops his wallet on the bus. Min-seo finds the wallet and takes it for herself, but Karim quickly notices it is missing and rushes to find her in a side street. This incident initiates their meeting.

Karim catches up to Min-seo and suggests going to the police station, demonstrating his command of Korean. Min-seo tries to persuade him to avoid reporting her by offering to do him a favor, signaling her desperation and guilt.

They agree to work together to locate Karim's former boss, Shin, by pretending to be loan sharks. Through this, they begin to learn about each other's lives and struggles, forming a tentative partnership.

As Karim and Min-seo continue their scheme, they develop a mutual understanding. Karim shares insights about societal issues in South Korea, while Min-seo opens up about her family and financial hardships, leading to a touching friendship.

Initially, Min-seo sees Karim as a convenient figure to help her navigate her own struggles. Over time, she begins to see him as a mentor and friend, lowering her defenses and accepting his guidance about societal problems.

As their friendship deepens, Karim's concern about his impending visa expiration grows. He becomes anxious about his ability to stay in South Korea legally and reunite with his family back home.

The story reaches a turning point where Karim must confront his legal situation while Min-seo faces her ongoing family and financial problems. Their friendship provides mutual support amidst the uncertainties surrounding their futures.