Heartbreak Library (2008)
A tender South Korean romance about grief, literature, and the hidden messages love leaves behind.
Heartbreak Library - Movie Information
- Original Title: 그 남자의 책 198쪽
- Release Year: 2008
- Directed by: Kim Jeong-kwon
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Romance
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Original Language: Korean
- Spoken Languages: Korean
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 23, 2008 (South Korea - 12)
- Alternative Titles: Keu Namjaui Chak 198Jjeuk (KR)
- Production Countries: South Korea
Heartbreak Library - Plot
Eun-soo, a librarian watches for book vandalism that currently happens in the library. One day, she catches Jun-oh tearing off certain page of books. Eun-soo accuses him of vandalism but soon discovers the complex story behind his actions. Jun-oh's girlfriend suddenly leaves him with only a mysterious note. "Look up page 198". Jun-oh's girlfriend was a bibliophile and she checked out books regularly at the library. Jun-oh goes to the library and tears out page 198 from every book he comes in touch. As Eun-soo has just broken up, she gives him an advice saying that he has to let her go if she really meant it. However, looking at Jun-oh torn apart by his love, Eun-soo starts to help him decipher the messages on page 198 of all the books.
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Heartbreak Library - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Kim Jeong-kwon
Main Cast
- Lee Dong-wook
- Lee Jae-yong
- Eugene
- Ki Joo-bong
- Park Hwi-sun
- Jo Ah-ra
- Yoo Da-in
- Jo Deok-hyeon
- Koh Soo-hee
- Jung Eun-pyo
Writers
- Park Eun-young
- Na Hyun
Producers
- Park Jun-hong
- Lee Ho-yeon
- Baek Eun-jin
Heartbreak Library - FAQs
What is Heartbreak Library about?
Heartbreak Library follows Eun-soo, a librarian who catches Jun-oh tearing pages from books. She discovers he is searching for hidden messages left by his ex-girlfriend, who wrote "Look up page 198" in her farewell note. The two bond over heartbreak as they decode the mysterious literary clues together.
What is the significance of page 198 in Heartbreak Library?
Page 198 is the emotional core of the film. Jun-oh's ex-girlfriend, an avid reader, left a cryptic farewell note directing him to that page in every book she loved. Each page 198 contains a fragment of her feelings, turning the library into a treasure hunt through their shared past.
Who are the main actors in Heartbreak Library?
Heartbreak Library stars Lee Dong-wook as Kim Joon-oh, the heartbroken man tearing pages from books, and Eugene as Jo Eun-soo, the librarian who helps him. The supporting cast includes Lee Jae-yong, Ki Joo-bong, Park Hwi-sun, Jo Ah-ra, Yoo Da-in, and Jung Eun-pyo.
Where can you watch Heartbreak Library online?
You can find current streaming availability for Heartbreak Library on JustWatch, which lists all platforms offering the film in your region. Streaming libraries for Korean films change regularly, so checking JustWatch ensures you get the most up-to-date viewing options available.
Who directed Heartbreak Library?
Heartbreak Library was directed by Kim Jeong-kwon. The screenplay was written by Park Eun-young and Na Hyun, with cinematography by Yun Myeong-sik. The film was produced by Park Jun-hong, Lee Ho-yeon, and Baek Eun-jin, and released in South Korea in October 2008.
When was Heartbreak Library released?
Heartbreak Library was released on October 23, 2008, in South Korea with a 12 age rating. The film is also known by its Korean transliteration title Keu Namjaui Chak 198Jjeuk and its original Korean title 그 남자의 책 198쪽, which translates roughly to "That Man's Book, Page 198."
How long is Heartbreak Library?
Heartbreak Library has a runtime of 97 minutes, approximately one hour and thirty-seven minutes. The film's compact length keeps its romantic and emotional narrative focused, making it an accessible watch for fans of Korean romance cinema looking for a heartfelt, literary-themed love story.
Is Heartbreak Library worth watching for romance fans?
Heartbreak Library is a gentle, literary Korean romance that appeals to fans of slow-burn emotional storytelling. Its unique premise — decoding a lost love's messages hidden in library books — sets it apart from conventional rom-coms. Lee Dong-wook and Eugene deliver warm, understated performances that resonate with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
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