JustUpdateOnline.com – The South Korean film industry is preparing for the emotional premiere of Everyday We Are, a coming-of-age drama that serves as the final cinematic contribution from the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Following her passing in February 2025, the film—also known by the title Before We Knew—is finally set to reach audiences, featuring a lead performance alongside Lee Chae-min, the breakout star of the Netflix hit Bon Appetit, Your Majesty.
Adapted from a beloved webtoon, the movie explores the delicate transition from adolescence to adulthood. The narrative captures the vulnerability of youth, focusing on the awkwardness, the fear of change, and the intense emotions associated with first love during one’s teenage years.
The project marks the directorial debut of Kim Min-jae, who shared his reflections on the film’s delayed journey to the big screen. Speaking to local media, the director admitted to feeling a sense of trepidation due to the long wait but expressed profound gratitude that the film is finally being released to the public.
The plot centers on Yeo-ul (portrayed by Kim Sae-ron), whose world is turned upside down just before middle school graduation. Her long-time best friend, Ho-su (played by Lee Chae-min), unexpectedly confesses his romantic feelings for her. This revelation creates a deep internal conflict for Yeo-ul; she views Ho-su as family and deeply fears that a romantic shift might destroy the precious bond they have shared for years.
The film is noted for its grounded, "slice-of-life" approach, eschewing over-the-top dramatic tropes in favor of relatable, everyday moments. The characters bond over simple activities like playing basketball, sharing meals after school, and discussing their respective family struggles. It is this focus on the mundane that provides the film with its authentic charm, mirroring the real-life experiences of many viewers.
However, the production faced several hurdles. While principal photography was completed back in 2021, the release was initially stalled following Kim Sae-ron’s legal issues involving a DUI incident in 2022. The timeline was further impacted by her sudden death in early 2025.
Critics have pointed out that the film’s execution is not without flaws. Some viewers noted that the pacing occasionally feels disjointed, and certain character developments—such as a sudden change in Ho-su’s behavior or the mature appearance of the character Ho-jae (Ryoo Ui-hyun)—felt inconsistent with the high school setting.
For fans of Lee Chae-min, Everyday We Are offers a nostalgic look at his early career. Since the film was shot, Lee’s profile has risen significantly with his portrayal of a powerful figure in Bon Appetit, Your Majesty and his first antagonistic role in the Netflix superhero series Cashero.
Everyday We Are is scheduled to debut in South Korean cinemas on March 4, 2026. International release details, including potential screenings in other regions, have yet to be confirmed.