Dream (2023) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

The Unexpected Incident

Professional football player Hong-dae becomes involved in an unexpected incident that derails his promising career. As a consequence, he receives a disciplinary probation, throwing his future in soccer into uncertainty.

Appointed as Coach

As a result of the incident, Hong-dae is appointed the coach of a special national soccer team. The appointment forces him into a coaching role he never sought, far removed from his life as a professional player.

Meeting the Team

Hong-dae meets the members of his new team, which consists entirely of homeless people. Some players have never even handled a soccer ball before, while others exhibit eccentric and challenging behaviour that makes coaching them extremely difficult.

The Homeless World Cup Goal

The team's mission is set: they will train to compete in the international Homeless World Cup. This ambitious goal gives the unlikely group of players a shared purpose and something meaningful to strive toward together.

A Reluctant Coach

Hong-dae is initially skeptical and cranky about his new role, struggling to accept the situation he has been placed in. His frustration with his own stalled career colors his early interactions with the team.

Documentary Filming Begins

Videographer Lee So-min begins filming a documentary about Hong-dae and the team. Her own career has also been flagging, making this project a crucial opportunity for her professional revival as well.

Warming to the Role

Over time, Hong-dae slowly warms to his role as coach and begins to genuinely connect with his players. The bond formed with the team gradually changes his outlook on the job and on his own life.

Rising TV Stardom

Thanks to the documentary being filmed about him and the team, Hong-dae becomes something of a TV star. The public attention raises his profile and brings unexpected media interest to the team's journey.

The Tempting Offer

Hong-dae receives a tempting offer that would mean leaving his coaching role with the homeless team behind. The opportunity represents a chance to escape the situation and return to a more conventional professional path.

Rejoining the Team

Despite the attractive offer, Hong-dae chooses to stick with his commitment and rejoins the team for the competition. His decision shows how deeply he has grown attached to the players and their shared dream.

Flying to Europe

Inspired by the true event of the 2010 Homeless World Cup, the team flies to Europe to compete in the international tournament. The journey marks a life-changing milestone for the homeless players, many of whom have never traveled abroad before.

When

2010

Where

Europe

Competing in the Cup

The team takes to the pitch at the Homeless World Cup, facing international opponents from around the world. Although they do not win the Cup, their performance in their final matches captures the hearts of the spectators and the documentary audience alike.

When

2010

Where

Europe

Careers Rehabilitated

Back in Korea, the impact of the documentary and the team's inspiring story leads to a turnaround for both Hong-dae and Lee So-min. Their careers, once flagging, are rehabilitated thanks to the exposure and emotional resonance of the project.

Where

Korea

Major League Comeback

In the final sequence, Hong-dae is seen re-entering major league soccer, completing his personal redemption arc. His experience coaching the homeless team has ultimately paved the way for his return to professional football at the highest level.

Where

Korea