BASED ON THE NOVEL I MET LOH KIWAN BY CHO HAE-JIN
When we land, walk out separately. Don't crowd together.
Once in customs, you'll see a checkpoint. That's where you'll give your passport.
Try not to act nervous. Do what they tell you.
But, sir, what if they question all of us?
"I don't speak French, sorry. " That's all you'll have to say.
We're preparing to land. For your safety, sit down, please.
Yes, ma'am.
Once you're off the plane, go to gate 3. We'll meet by the bathrooms.
"I don't speak French. "
-Wait, so what do I do, then? -I don't speak French.
Memorize it. You could get caught otherwise.
-What do we do if we get caught? -This is your captain speaking.
We have begun our descent into Brussels Airport.
Next.
"I don't…"
Please have your passports ready. Thank you.
Jeon Chun-bong.
Lee Han-gil.
Park Dong-hun.
Kim Jeong-sik.
Lee Gwang-cheol.
Um, excuse me, comrade. Where is this place?
I'll drive you. Forty bucks.
I'll pay you when we get there.
Here's the money.
I don't know what your story is, but I don't want any bad luck. Take it.
Call me if you wanna go back to China.
Here's my card.
Go.
Please don't push each other around.
Please stay in the line.
You can't stand there. Go to the other side.
Come on through.
Next.
Move on, please. Move on.
Please fill out this form.
Next.
You must attach a copy of your ID.
An ID.
Um, passport, please.
A copy of the passport or another form of ID you have to attach.
Do you… Okay.
Please get some help from the interpreter, okay?
Mm-hmm.
Yes. Mm-hmm.
You. Help.
Mr. Loh Kiwan?
Hello there. I'm your interpreter, Kim Gyeong-sil.
Oh.
You're in luck today. You usually have to book in advance.
I'm really glad to help you out. Shall we go?
-Hello. How are you? -Hello.
"First thing we need to do is gather some personal information. "
"Your name, your date of birth, country of origin, and hometown. "
My name is Loh Kiwan.
I was born December 1st, um, 1990.
Camp 7, Hasang Collective Farm, Usi-gun, Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
I was born in the farm's seventh work unit.
I was able to obtain a passport through a broker my uncle found.
"So, Mr. Loh, you say that you fled to China in 2019
but that you weren't employed while you were living in Yanji. "
"How were you able to afford a plane ticket here to Belgium
and counterfeit a passport?"
Well, uh…
Well, my mother… she…
" Do you mean your mother gave you the money?"
Mom, why aren't you eating?
I'm not hungry.
Anyway, it brings good luck when you eat a birthday meal alone.
They say if you do that,
you'll go through your entire life without ever starving.
They say you should eat your noodles whole if you want to live longer,
so stop breaking your noodles apart, okay?
All right, okay.
Oh, Mom… do you work today?
You know people like to have warm food on cold days.
That also means more money for you and me.
I know, but I should be the one working.
You do so much for us… while I spend my days indoors.
It's so unfair.
Now, now. It's your birthday, and I don't mind working.
Besides, all a mother wants is for her child to be safe and healthy.
I can continue to work for us until we leave China.
So don't worry.
It's my fault.
I should've turned a blind eye when the boss was beating up Jeong-jin.
Otherwise, I wouldn't have to be in hiding like this.
-I'm sorry, Mother. -Now, don't talk like that.
He would have died if you didn't intervene.
You did the right thing, so never apologize for that.
All right, okay.
Don't stay past closing, hmm?
I would leave on time if it was up to me, but it's not.
I'll see you after work.
Happy birthday, comrade.
Miss!
Yes?
-What would you like? -A cold one.
Coming right up.
-Hey, that snow sure is wild. -Hey, comrade!
-You're here! -Yeah!
Mr. Loh? This is the last question for today.
"Are you Korean-Chinese
and just pretending that you are North Korean
to receive state subsidies set aside for defectors?"
Uh,
I am not.
No.
There will be a second interview. I can fit you in on February 5th.
At three o'clock. I'll jot you down.
I guess I'll see you then.
Um, wait…
You mean February… of next year? Is that what I'm hearing?
Mmm.
It's just… what am I supposed to do? I won't be able to work for now?
You'll just have to hang in there.
Where did you say that restaurant was again?
Oh, just have to go downstairs. It's on the left.
Ah!
Oh God, baby, you taste like watermelon.
Come up here. I wanna taste too.
You will. I'm not done with you yet.
Yeah, right there.
Oh yes. You're so good like that.
Oh yeah.
Oh, hey there, sexy. You wanna join us?
Hey, get out of here! I said, get out of here, huh?
Get out of here!
Don't kick him out so soon!
I wanna taste of him.
Hey! Let me in!
You idiot! I kicked you out, freak!
Now, where were we?
You missed out. Maybe next time, pretty boy.
Who's this piece of trash?
Isn't this the one we saw pissing by the train station?
This one's way shorter. Makes you look tall.
Shut up, asshole.
Get lost, you beggar. This is our fire.
-Yeah, get out of here. -I won't hurt you.
Take your shit and get the hell out of here!
Sorry, I lied.
Take that, you beggar.
Dirty bastard!
Take that, bitch!
That's what you get, you dirty hobo!
-Damn, I'm starving. -Down for a beer?
I never turn down beer.
-I can go for a burger. -You eat too much.
Hey, hurry up!
I'll ask you one more time.
NAME: LOH KIWAN
Is this person here your son?
No, sir.
That's not my son.
Hey there! Officer Lee.
Don't you two know this lady is Mr. Choi's second cousin?
Mr. Choi?
Oh, come now. You remember.
He gave your wife a ride that night she got too drunk.
Ah, guess what.
Mr. Choi's son recently was accepted to Peking University.
Mr. Choi was never one for studying. It's funny, actually.
He barely graduated.
How did a fool like that raise such a smart son?
Huh?
Hey, Ma.
Hey!
Hey, freeze!
Mom, this way!
Stop!
Stop! There they are! Stop right there! Freeze!
-Shit! -Hey!
It's through here.
Come on! Get them!
They went that way!
Freeze right now!
Mom, no. Over here.
This way!
Almost there, Mom!
Mom!
Answer me. Mom!
Wake up! Mom!
-She just came out from nowhere. -Yeah, crazy.
-Ok Hui, wake up. -Uncle, help me. Please!
-Hey! Hey. Hey, sis. -Mom, wake up!
-Mom! -Open your eyes. Please!
Hey! Move the car! Hey!
Kiwan.
You have to survive, Kiwan.
You'll have to continue on without me now.
You need to go on.
Find a life worth living.
Seek refuge…
and have a life of your own.
Get up, Ma.
You're coming with me too. You'll be okay, huh?
You can't be here. They'll catch you.
I'll stay here with your mother. Don't get caught.
Someone help us!
We'll all die if you get caught! Get out of here!
Go, son.
Go!
-Go! -Hey, there here! I found them.
Over here!
-This way! -Kiwan, you can't get caught!
-Please, just go! -Coming through!
-You have to leave. -Move, people.
Hurry, Kiwan.
Move out of the way!
He doesn't speak English or French.
Can we get an interpreter?
Okay.
I'm calling from Schaerbeek Police Station.
You posted bail for Ms. Marie Lee, right?
She is suspected of theft.
Hold on.
Ma'am.
You don't need to come.
Just send the settlement money.
Listen to me. How many times do I have to tell you don't come here?
Excuse me. Hello, comrade.
My wallet. Can you please give it back?
What wallet?
I have no idea.
Listen, comrade. I know, uh… you took it.
So please give it back to me, huh?
Did you spend everything in it?
Did you?
I did. Why?
What else was I supposed to do with it, hmm?
Well, that wallet…
My mother, uh…
The wallet is all I have left of her.
The money that you stole from me,
I obtained it…
from selling my mother's body.
So please tell me where my wallet is.
This is a plane ticket to fly to Belgium tomorrow.
This money,
where did you get it?
Huh?
Your mother's body was, um…
was sold to a hospital.
My mother was sold?
What are you talking about, Uncle?
Uncle?
Listen, your mother wanted this.
I showed her the money so she knew how much her life was worth.
She agreed to this.
It was… her final gift.
-Let go of me, Uncle. -Kiwan, don't.
Stop! Let go!
Let go! Let me die!
Leave me alone!
Give it here! Let me die!
Uncle, let go of me.
Stop.
What are you doing?
Get a grip, Kiwan.
Your mother wanted you to survive!
You can't die, you hear?
Do it for your mother's sake, okay?
Do you hear me?
Don't let your… mother's death be in vain.
You need to get out of here.
Get on that plane and never look back!
Promise me you will!
Promise me!
I need to know that you'll be okay, Kiwan.
Tell me you understand!
Kiwan.
I'm sorry.
Mom, I'm sorry.
Mom! Mom!
You want your wallet?
I need your help.
Tell them that I stole… only 30 bucks, and you can have your wallet back.
You really are shameless, aren't you?
You want me to lie for you after what you did?
I've got a record.
I won't get locked up for just 30 bucks.
A thief should go to jail. It's exactly where you belong.
I can't get your wallet if I'm locked up.
Just help me.
I'm hoping you can help confirm his identity
and the exact amount stolen.
Okay.
All right.
Just a moment. I'll put him on.
Good afternoon to you too.
Loh Kiwan is my name, yes.
Yes.
It was American dollars.
About $30. Thank you.
Yes.
Thank you.
We'll make it quick.
Let's go.
Just go home and wait. I'll get it for you later.
I don't have a home to go to. So let's go now.
Well, give me your number, and I'll grab it for you tomorrow.
You think I'd trust a thief? I want my wallet back.
We'll go together.
Marie. Marie!
Uh, sir, wait a minute. Sorry, I'm Marie's father. Can we speak?
I heard you're from North Korea.
This is for you. It's not much, I'm afraid.
-It's just-- Don't make a scene. -What are you doing?
I'm just trying to help you here.
It's only a small amount, but…
-Stop! -Stop, Marie.
-Stop acting like you're a good person! -Can't we talk for a moment?
I've got nothing to say to you.
Seriously.
Are you coming or not?
Hey, just wait here.
Oh, that's a good one. You know I don't trust you.
-I'm coming too. -Stay here! Do as I say.
Give me ten minutes.
Please give me a bit more time.
Goddamn it!
I told you not to move.
Don't knock over the apple.
Oh, Marie, you're here. Hey, riddle me this.
How do I avoid shooting the journalist in the head?
Please just give me more time.
Is there a problem with my stance? What do you think?
You aim too long.
Shoot within three seconds of aiming. Don't hesitate.
Is that right?
This isn't my specialty.
I only set the targets.
But you shoot them.
Remember the wallet I gave you yesterday? Well, I need it back.
Marie, you're terribly predictable.
It's almost cute.
-Don't touch me! -Shut up!
Give us a moment.
I expected this.
You stole it, didn't you?
It's none of your business.
Don't steal money to pay me back.
Work for me until your debt is paid.
I told you I quit.
I think that's my decision.
Next Wednesday, two-on-two with the Dutch. Win and I'll give you this money back.
And the wallet.
Tell them I shoot from 25 meters.
They're gonna ask for 50, but say no, okay?
Okay.
Let's get outta here.
Hey, wait. Where's my wallet?
I'll get it next week. You have to wait longer.
Is this all a big joke? You're lying to me again, aren't you?
I'm not lying, all right?
Your wallet's with a friend.
Shit.
Hey!
Last round. We've gotta get to work soon.
All right, next round.
You know those guys. They're all about money.
Like you, right?
Ah, shut up.
-What the hell? -What's his deal?
I want my wallet.
-Give me my wallet! -Fuck off.
-Hey, get up. Come on, let's go. -Aren't they just two of a kind?
What's going on? What's with all the noise?
Why are you still here?
Oh, I see.
So you're the "friend" she mentioned, huh?
Stay right there.
You and I need to talk.
Let me go! Let go! Stop it!
-Shit! -Kiwan.
If we don't leave, they'll kill you. This won't solve anything.
Let go of me!
You can trust me. I promise.
I'll get your wallet. I swear I'll get it.
Come over here.
You have to remember that you're in a foreign country,
so you better keep that temper of yours in check. Got it?
Yeah, well, you're one to talk.
When did you come to Belgium?
When I was young.
When did she pass away?
Your ma.
The 2nd of last December.
2:15 in the morning.
So you must feel lonely this time of year.
My mom also died in the winter.
Have you found any work here?
I recycle bottles for money.
I make just enough not to die.
I know it's not too fancy, but at least I don't steal.
Okay, trash king.
No one's going to give me any work. I don't exist here.
ILSIM EMPLOYMENT AGENCY
Hey. Call here.
The boss there is a Korean guy. Say Lee Youn-sung sent you.
Lee Youn-sung?
Yeah, the man outside the station today.
Oh. Do you mean your father?
Why can't I say you sent me? Why must it be your father?
Well, do whatever you want. I'm nobody though.
Hey, I was just thinking.
I'm worried that I'll embarrass your father.
My clothes are gross… and I smell.
I'm not presentable.
Change into these.
Well now. This is different.
So when should I bring these back to you, then?
Just keep them. They don't belong to anyone.
I have more in there. Want them?
No. It's okay. I'm good.
Whoever hurt your lip, you should stay far away from him.
You deserve better than that.
Hurting a woman's face is disgraceful.
Any man who'll do that once is sure to do it again.
Oh.
You made me a promise. Don't forget.
CHOI RYUK-MYUNG, MALE DOB: DEC. 1, 1990, HEALTHY
Ch… Choi Ryuk-myung?
Yeah.
That's your name now. You're a new man.
It can be complicated to find work for North Koreans.
So when we're there, we'll tell everyone that you're Chinese-Korean.
Ah, of course.
Thank you so much, comrade.
Don't mention it.
Did the money I sent come through? It's been two days.
Hey!
Hey, I've gotta go.
If you have any trouble, Seon-ju will help you out.
-She's actually Chinese-Korean. -Thank you.
Take good care of him, Seon-ju.
All right. Let's go in.
Who brought that idiot here? Seriously.
Hey, comrades! I'm trapped in here!
Please open the door!
Comrades! I'm sealed in here!
Comrades, help! Someone please let me out!
If you press this button, the door will open from the inside.
The green button. Do you understand?
Yes.
-I was right, so pay up. -I was so close.
You owe me, dog.
Beat it! Go to work!
-Go to work! -Sure, Mom.
-What the fuck did she say? Walk away. -Hey, man, just calm down. Get a grip.
Those bastards all decided to place bets on how long you'd be stuck in the freezer.
-Huh. -They like to play tricks on the newbies.
But just ignore them.
Go and do the rest now.
Okay.
Damn, those guys at work sure are infuriating. They're assholes.
They do that to every newbie. Trap them in that freezer as a sick joke.
It's not personal, just so you know.
What's wrong? Is the meat not good enough for you, or what?
Why would someone with a job steal food?
That meat doesn't belong to either of us.
Listen, this shoebox apartment is 200 a month,
and the bus is 50 bucks or more a month.
My money's completely gone by the time I need to buy any food.
So, in my eyes, this is what's fair.
You know how they pat us down when we all head home?
Well, it turns out they wouldn't dare pat down a woman's chest.
So it'd be dumb of me not to steal. That's how I see it.
I do it all for them. My kids are my whole world.
The one in the middle looks so mischievous.
He looks like a general. So military with his shaved head.
That's my daughter.
She's needed brain surgeries, so we've had to shave her head.
-Ah… -It's no big deal, hmm?
The poor kid still has one more surgery though.
Afterwards, I'll be able to braid her hair and send her off to school.
Well, uh, she's very brave.
Thank you. I think I'm pretty full. The rest of it's yours.
Comrade, eat more meat.
You have it.
Actually, I'm sick of meat.
The smell gets to me since we're surrounded by it all day.
And stop saying comrades. Don't you wanna blend in?
If you keep saying comrades, everyone will know you're not from here.
Who's got time for love? Not me.
I see the same guy every night.
Look, there he is, catching the bus!
That's the guy I was telling you about.
Let's get away this weekend. Wanna meet up?
Well, I really want to, so let's go later.
Ah. Yeah, he's a simp.
Ladies and gentlemen, it's time for today's main event.
The women's target shooting spectacular is about to begin,
so please grab your drinks and find your seats!
First up is the international sensation herself,
hailing all the way from the Netherlands,
Julia!
Tonight, she's facing off against the pride of Belgium,
our very own Marie!
Each player will take one practice shot
before we begin the first match of the set.
You have one minute until betting closes.
So hurry up, everyone, and make your choice!
Marie, what is it?
What is this?
-Were you never planning to tell me? -Just give it here.
You killed her?
Euthanasia?
So Mom didn't just die, then.
-You were the one who killed her. -I can explain everything, Marie.
Just listen to me for once, hmm?
-It's not what you think -Why did you lie to me?
-Why didn't you just tell me the truth? -Your mom wanted this.
She knew you wouldn't have been able to handle this.
Don't you dare put this on her! You know that's not it, huh?
You knew that I wouldn't let her go through with it.
So you did it while I was training.
Marie, listen. It wasn't like that. I promise, okay?
It wasn't like that.
Just let me explain.
Don't panic, ladies and gentlemen.
In the meantime, here's some info for tonight's drawing.
You each should have a ticket. Turn them over.
-You should see a number there, right? -Give me five minutes.
I haven't done this in a while.
After tonight's game, we'll do a raffle drawing.
I hope you're all excited.
Who's ready to see some more grade-A shooting?
You're trembling like a terrified puppy.
All right, folks, that was the end of the fourth match.
It's now time to wait as the scores are tallied.
Will we have a winner now,
or will we continue on to a fifth round?
Without further delay, let's now reveal Marie's results.
Forty-eight points!
It's a tie!
Thank you. Thank you, everyone.
Here you go.
Four!
Three!
Two! One!
That's it, ladies and gentlemen. Betting is now closed.
Here we go!
Now Marie. Will she break under pressure?
Or will she shoot her way to victory?
Let us see!
All right!
And now let's see her final score!
10.4! What an incredible finish, my God!
By two tenths of a point, Marie is the winner!
She had her eye on the prize!
Make some noise for Marie!
Marie! Marie! Marie! Marie! Marie! Marie! Marie! Marie! Marie!
Fuck yeah!
Didn't I tell ya you'd win?
Did you see the look on Gerd's face? I think he fell in love with you.
He said he won't pull out his investment.
You should see him before you go.
I've got somewhere to be.
Are you kidding? Hmm.
I've been trying to get him here for years.
We need him to help expand our business.
Listen, I won. Just give me the wallet.
I should go.
Eat with me.
Have you eaten yet?
What?
Can I please borrow some of your meat?
-Are you sure? I stole it. -Yes, yes, thank you.
-Thank you. You're kind, comrade. -Mm-hmm.
Comrade, comrade.
Do you need something else?
Any lettuce?
Utensils.
Ah…
I brought you some bowls, too, just in case.
-Uh… -Just don't forget to wash it all, okay?
Thank you, comrade.
Why are you standing? Sit down.
Eat it while it's hot. I know it's not much.
Did you buy all this? Where'd you get the money?
I didn't have to buy it. It was all free.
Huh?
It's not from the trash, so don't worry.
Early in the morning, by North Station, they give us free food.
I go by every day and pick the things I want.
I'll get going.
All right.
Don't walk me out.
I want to. It's dark outside.
-Tea? Who wants some tea? -Huh? What's going on?
Wow, it's 9:00 already?
My neighbor offers tea at night. He does this every night around 9:00.
-Tea! Anyone want tea? -Let's have some. I'll leave after.
No, wait, hold on. Don't. Don't go quite yet.
Tea, everyone! Nice and hot!
I'm not allowed to have guests. He can't know that you're here.
We'll have to wait.
Okay, okay, that's enough.
Careful now, it's hot.
Quiet.
Come one, come all! I have tea!
Get your tea!
Nice and hot! Come and get it.
It's ginger with a touch of citrus.
Get your tea.
Hey, do you want any tea tonight, Kiwan?
Cut it out! You're too loud! Stop your racket!
He's trying to rest! Huh?
What a bitch.
Last chance! Get your tea!
All right, I'm leaving! Last chance!
Last call for tea!
No one? Anyone?
We will start recording now.
This photo here is from 1997.
It was May Day.
We had joined a delegation that went to Pyongyang to celebrate.
It's my mother and I.
She held me in her arms at Kim Il Sung Square.
"The photos will be submitted as evidence. "
"And after we scan them for you, we'll return it to you. "
"Uh, we also contacted Cheonsim Hospital,
which you had mentioned during your first interview. "
"The hospital stated, unequivocally, that they've never been involved
with the purchase or sale of corpses or body parts at any point. "
They're lying. The buying and selling of bodies happens secretly underground.
It's not the sort of thing the hospital would admit to, right?
"You'll have to prove your nationality some other way. "
"At this time, you won't receive refugee status
because you can't prove you defected from North Korea. "
Didn't I tell you everything you asked me?
Why would I lie to you two? You don't believe me?
"I'm sorry. It's difficult to believe your statement
about your mother's body being sold illegally
to Cheonsim Hospital. "
"And since there's no proof backing up your claim
that you really are a defector from North Korea,
we won't be able to help you. "
Mmm.
"Lastly, if we rule that the photo you provided
fails to constitute as valid evidence,
you'll have to go. "
"You will be forcibly repatriated to China. "
You're saying I'll be deported?
Hey, do it again. The meat still has fat on it.
Cut around the sides.
Hey, comrade.
How can you tell if I'm really North Korean?
Well, for one, you always say comrade when talking.
And, uh, just the way you look.
Koreans have a totally different bone structure.
Comrade Seon-ju…
Uh, never mind.
Hey, what's on your mind, huh?
Just spit it out.
Hey, what is it, hmm?
Do you think you might speak on my behalf down at the courthouse?
I think it might help if I had a witness by my side.
Of course I can. That's no big deal.
-Do you mean that? Huh? -Yes!
You'd really come, comrade?
For sure.
Oh, great.
And besides, I really need good karma soon
'cause my daughter is about to have surgery.
Thank you, comrade.
Hey, if I end up getting refugee status, it will all be thanks to you.
Hey, if you wanna pay it forward, then get me something.
Lately, I've been craving for fish. You got that?
Okay, you got it.
What would you like?
Sea bream? Two? Okay.
Oh.
-My beer. -Oh, pardon me.
-What did you do to my beer, huh? -Sorry.
Hey!
This asshole dropped my beer.
What the hell, man? Hey! Tough guy! What's this?
-Give that back. -Want it back? Then come get it. Huh?
Do you like it? Do you like it? You wanna go, huh?
Here, take it. Get outta here!
-Go home! -Yeah.
-You owe me a beer. -Buy me a beer!
Oh!
The fuck, man? Look what you did.
-You're not gonna get away with this. -Hey!
-We need help! He's hurt! -Hey!
-Call the police! You're dead. -God!
-Get the police! We need help! -Help us, somebody!
My husband is getting attacked!
-Help! This guy's crazy! -Oh no! Someone call the cops!
Help him!
Someone please call an ambulance!
I told you I'm not going. Stop calling me.
Marie, did you recommend someone to the factory by chance?
So what if I did, hmm?
What a monstrosity!
He came out of nowhere and lunged at my husband.
And he attacked him for no reason!
Miss, you're next.
Uh, Loh Kiwan. He was in the assault from last night.
-Are you a relative or his lawyer? -No.
Then, no, I can't let you visit him.
-I just wanna see his face for a moment. -It's not possible, miss.
-So what'll happen to him, then? -He'll have three days to file an appeal.
If he doesn't, the deportation process will begin.
Or, if you want, you can pay his bail.
-Shit! -Calm down, miss.
May I remind you this is a police station?
Hey.
You're a police officer, right?
-This is insane. -Please calm down, miss.
Hey, I'm not finished.
If he's deported, then you're condemning him to die.
Be a police officer, huh?
Carry out justice!
Marie.
Wait a second.
Go. I have things to do.
Here, take this. He's a trusted friend. A good lawyer.
I heard that you've been undergoing refugee screening.
I think he could really help out your case.
Oh, thank you.
This means so much to me… sir.
I have one request, however.
Yes, please go ahead, sir.
My daughter.
She's a very vulnerable girl. I really want her to get better.
She needs someone strong. Someone who can support her.
Not someone who's just as unstable as she is.
Uh, excuse me, sir--
I don't think you should see my daughter anymore.
You have too much going on in your life.
Staying in this country is your only top priority, Kiwan.
Hi, Kiwan.
-So today's the big day. -Are you ready?
-Yes. -You'll be great.
TRIBUNAL OF BRUSSELS
During his first interview two months ago,
Mr. Loh, uh, provided specific information
that a North Korean citizen would only know.
However, his request was contested shortly after,
claiming insufficient proof.
Can you explain this lack of proof,
as it was the reason that this request was denied?
The hospital to which Mr. Loh here claims to have sold his own mother's body
denies this obscene and false accusation.
The prosecution doesn't believe her body was sold.
The two photos Mr. Loh provided were confirmed to be of Pyongyang, yes,
but they could have been taken by Chinese travelers on vacation.
We believe these photos fail to prove Mr. Loh's claim
that he is indeed a North Korean national.
Therefore, insufficient.
Furthermore, Mr. Loh claims to have lived in the city of Yanji…
The prosecution doesn't believe you have enough evidence…
According to our investigation, there is nothing to support this story.
…so we may need to provide stronger proof for your claim.
Have the witnesses arrived?
The résumé Mr. Loh provided
was indicative he was from Yanji, China.
I didn't have a reason to doubt him,
so he was introduced as Chinese at the factory.
Did Mr. Loh identify himself to you as a Chinese-born ethnic Korean
and not as a defector?
Sir, please take your time answering.
We just want you to recall all of the events properly.
Yes. That's exactly what he said.
-Sir, you're lying. -Silence, sir.
-Calm your client. -Pardon.
Mr. Loh. Mr. Loh.
Let's hear them out.
I now call Ms. Kim Seon-ju. Please step forward.
I see you worked alongside Mr. Loh over at the factory.
Were you aware Mr. Loh applied for North Korean refugee status?
Please take your time answering, Ms. Kim, and please remember you're under oath.
The testimony that you give will be used as evidence in this hearing.
You may proceed.
Your Honor. Yes, I was aware.
There are many people who are mixed Korean and Chinese who take advantage
by saying they are defectors from North Korea when they aren't.
They pretend to be North Korean defectors immigrating for refugee benefits.
I suspected Mr. Loh might be one of them.
Do you know Mr. Loh's Chinese name? What is it?
Ms. Kim, please tell us the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
Choi Ryuk-myung.
"Cui Liming, " what we say in Mandarin.
Choi Ryung-myung?
You know that's not my real name.
So why did you lie up there?
Tell me, comrade.
Betraying me like that, was it worth it?
You told me the other day…
that it was obvious that I'm North Korean.
I wanna know why.
I deserve to know why.
-What are you doing, Kiwan? -Comrade.
Kiwan, let go!
Tell me!
Why'd you do it?
Why did you do that to me?
Kiwan!
Kiwan, you're… you're hurt. Let go.
What do you want?
Did you leave something here?
Uh, no.
I just…
You can't just show up here out of nowhere.
Start preparing for your next match.
Gerd will be there. We need him to work with us.
You came here just to say that?
-Coaches are supposed to be tough, Marie. -Stop breathing down my neck.
I don't need your shit anymore. I'm fine without drugs these days.
It sure didn't seem like that last time.
Listen to me.
I don't give a fuck about your refugee!
But do as I say! You still need to pay your debt to me.
So you better stay within my sight, you got that?
You're mine.
FREE
Gerd put down three million on you.
If we can double that, that's half our debt all paid off.
I rigged the game. You're guaranteed to win.
So just have fun out there.
Chloe! Chloe!
The tension is palpable, folks!
Now it's time for Chloe's last shot!
8.2 for Chloe!
Nice work, Chloe!
Hey! Learn to shoot!
What the fuck?
What a disaster! She missed the entire target.
What just happened, folks?
In this unprecedented event, Chloe wins the match!
Now, please, folks, calm yourselves!
Please don't throw anything! Folks, please restrain yourselves!
Where the hell do you think you're going, huh?
You're on your own from now on.
Listen, you won't survive out there without me. You're nothing!
No.
You're wrong.
Damn it!
Kiwan, hey.
Hey, listen to me, Kiwan. Wait!
Before the trial, a person from the refugee office
came to the factory.
They said they would shut us down if they learned your documents were forged.
So that's why we let you take the fall for everyone else's sake.
He said I wouldn't get my visa renewed if I didn't lie about everything.
My, um, my daughter's operation is very soon,
and she relies on my wages.
In the end, it turns out he didn't even renew my visa.
What do you want me to say to you, hmm?
Oh, that's too bad. It must've been hard for you.
No, hey! Don't go!
I just really want to apologize to you.
I'm being deported soon. I got caught without a visa.
I'll be back in China with my children,
so I don't think I will ever be in Belgium again, so, uh…
I had to see you before I leave.
I'm so sorry… comrade Loh Kiwan.
I heard back from a well-known defectors' advocacy group.
They'll submit a statement of support, and they'll even attend your next trial.
This will definitely help increase your credibility, I believe.
Don't give up hope yet, okay?
Okay.
Would you like something to drink? A juice or coffee?
Juice, please.
IN MEMORY OF LEE JEONG-JU
DAUGHTER: LEE MARIE
What are you doing here?
Once I found out this was happening today, it felt wrong not to come.
So I'd like to pay my respects by helping out.
My wife left us all three years ago, as you know.
This will be my family's last public memorial service.
Moving forward, we will get together privately
to honor her and her legacy.
Marie.
Got a good turnout, I see.
Marie.
Ah…
Everyone's so dressed and eating such nice food,
all for someone that's dead.
What does this accomplish?
Go be sad at home.
Why do this when it's all just one big show for you, huh?
What?
Are you afraid people might point fingers if they knew what you did?
Stop this!
Stop what?
Stop what, Dad?
What did I do? What?
I told you to stop! You need to leave!
Ah!
Listen! Because of your actions that day, I no longer have a mother. She's dead.
Put that down right now.
Do you know what you did?
I died a long time ago. Understand?
I understand, hmm? Now give me that!
Get the fuck away!
Stay away from me! Don't you ever dare tell me what to do anymore, okay? Okay?
Marie, open the door, please! Marie!
Marie! Marie!
The floor is like jelly. Will I fall?
The floor is wobbling. It's too damn much.
It's jelly!
I'm seasick.
Just sit down. Standing is bad shit.
Yeah, just sit. Nice. Who is this guy?
Huh? What?
-Who is this clown? -You're here.
Is the circus in town? Where'd you come from?
-I came from the North. -This you on vacation? Oh, Marie.
Want a vacation? This will take you far away.
Good girl.
Hey! Are you insane?
Crazy bastard!
Marie.
Marie, give it to me.
Let go!
Shit. Shit.
Fuck off! You don't get to stop me!
-Marie! -Let go!
Stop this!
Do you want to die? Is that what you want, huh?
No.
If I die, I can't do drugs.
Why would I throw this all away?
If you wanna die,
then be my guest.
Hey, wait.
That's not yours! Give it!
Oh shit!
That's mine!
Hey, Kiwan.
Hey!
Hey, what's wrong? Spit it out!
Spit it out!
Kiwan, I said spit it out!
Oh God!
Hey.
Kiwan, please wake up!
Nicky!
Open up! Open the door!
Nicky!
I need the… antidote!
Hurry, get it! Hurry and get it! Please hurry! Get it!
Please, please.
Hey, Kiwan.
Are you okay?
You're…
You really are something.
Why do you do…
…that kind of stuff?
I was so worried about you. Why did you do that?
I'm sorry.
It's my fault.
I kept pushing you away.
You're all bark but no bite. That's it.
You like to pretend you're cruel, but you're not.
Behind that tough act is a sweet girl.
Marie.
If you ever take drugs again,
I'll do what I just did.
I'll do it again.
If you ever try to hurt or destroy yourself,
I'll follow you to hell and drag you out myself.
I'll help you find the light.
You go that?
What is this of?
It was my mom's favorite flower.
Hmm.
Well, it's pretty.
What happened here?
Well,
when my mother… and I ran from North Korea…
we both, um… we both carried razor blades in our clothes.
Why?
Just in case the police
tried to send us back there. We both would have rather died.
It was our backup plan. We always carried them with us.
So, on both our left wrists,
we ended up having a few attempts together.
Marie.
Listen.
When I was living in China, I broke the law.
I got involved in a fight at work. I should've ignored it.
The police were looking for me, so I went into hiding.
Ultimately…
that circumstance led to my mother's death.
So, does someone like me…
deserve to be happy despite what happened?
I ask myself the same question.
I'm like you.
We might think we don't deserve a lot.
But at least we have each other.
And that's enough for me.
Uh, Marie, isn't this
a little too much? I feel overdressed.
A little overdressed is all right.
Like a true Belgian, hmm?
Mmm! How about that?
-Don't do that. There's people outside. -Just kiss me!
-Mr. Loh. -Kiss me back!
-Uh, ah… -Mr. Hyeok.
Here. This just came from China.
-Really? -You should open it and take a look.
Uh… Thank you so much.
I'll leave you two.
Oh, no…
KIM SEON-JU
Open it.
I've spent the past few days
going to all the newspaper archives in Yanji.
I asked for all the newspapers from last winter
and brought them home with me.
My kids and I read so many newspapers
that our fingertips turned black from the ink.
My youngest, the one with the shaved head,
just learned to read, and she found this article.
I knew right away that this story was about you.
NORTH KOREAN WOMAN RAN INTO SLIDING TRUCK ON SNOWY ROAD, DEAD
Comrade Kiwan,
I know I can't undo what I did to you, and I don't expect forgiveness,
but I hope that this will help your case.
Like your mom said, you have to survive, comrade.
-Oh, good. Look, they're here. -I see.
-No, also… -Ms. Gi Soon?
Hello, so good to see you. How have you been?
-Good. And yourself? -Good.
-Glad to hear. -Oh, you too.
-Thanks for coming today, everyone. -Yes, thank you.
And here's Mr. Loh Kiwan.
Oh my goodness. Hello, sir.
It truly is an honor to meet you, Ms. Gi Soon.
I've read all your articles.
Oh, you're too kind. I still don't know how I get published.
I love your work. They made me cry, actually.
Oh, but I wrote them to make you smile. You shouldn't cry.
Come over here.
I'm busy right now.
If you knew how much your stunt cost me, you'd shut your mouth.
Did you really think you'd get away with it?
I swear, Marie, this is your last chance.
Get your ass over here.
Unless you wanna see a bullet hole in your lover's skull.
Oh, my, my.
Thank you for everything, comrades.
Any time.
You have endured so much. You've done well.
Oh, thank you, comrade.
-Glad to help. -Oh.
Thank you for your support. I appreciate it.
We'll always be here.
-Excuse me. -Of course.
I'm really sorry, but someone is waiting for me.
What's going on?
So I forgot that the plumber was coming by.
-It seems I have to run home now. -Oh.
So promise me you won't worry. I'll return before the trial ends.
Okay. Just hurry back when you're done.
Mm-hmm. I'll be quick.
But back then, when they originally broke away from us…
We gather here today for the second trial
in the case between the Kingdom of Belgium
and Mr. Loh Kiwan.
This article right here
was originally published in a local newspaper in China
in the small town of Yanji, on December 5th of last year.
It describes the unfortunate death of a North Korean defector.
She was struck by a bus late during the night.
The accident described in this newspaper article
completely corresponds in perfect detail
with the story Mr. Loh recounted in his first interview.
The photo he provided of his mother is clearly the woman in the paper.
I now call Loh Kiwan.
Can you state your name for the court, please?
My name is… Loh Kiwan.
Don't touch me!
Give me the conditions for your next match.
I'll have my girl ready.
What's happening?
No need.
What do you mean?
Your girl,
I don't want her for just… one season.
The player… for your debt.
She aimed at "zero, " and you are screwed.
She shouldn't be wasted at such a small-time shop as this.
She's out of your league.
That will be better
for her too.
Please don't do this.
You piece of shit.
It's over for you.
Mr. Loh then applied for refugee status
as a North Korean defector sometime last December.
As his case was being reviewed,
he started a new job but using Chinese papers.
You'll see the evidence of these acts on page three of Mr. Loh's case file.
Mr. Loh, sit down, please.
Uh, Mr. Loh, what are you doing?
I need to go. Sorry, Mr. Hyeok.
-Why? -Marie needs me.
Mr. Loh, you can't just--
Sir, sit down, please. Return to your seat!
Get the rest of the cash from the safe.
-Get armed and ready. They're coming. -Got it.
Marie, we've gotta move fast.
We both need to leave the country right now.
-Why would I go with you? -You're my player. You belong to me.
We're a pair.
That means… they'll look for you too.
His men will be here any minute.
So we need to get out of this country.
Listen to me!
I'm not going with you.
I don't belong to you!
You'll be safe with me.
A place in Amsterdam will take us in. I've already made the arrangements.
We can start our own shooting parlor there
without someone like Gerd always butting in.
It'll be different this time. It's an opportunity.
You don't have a choice.
You really are a monster!
You're right, Marie. I'm a complete monster.
But this fucking world made me a monster.
I can't help it!
How about I give you a real taste of it?
Marie!
Marie! Marie!
Fucking bastard!
Don't touch him!
Get off of me!
Stay down.
Get away from him!
I said get away!
Marie.
What are you waiting for? Come on, huh?
Don't hesitate.
Just shoot.
Let's go.
Marie!
Gerd is dead.
Understood.
I'll get the girl and bring her to Berlin.
Where is the girl?
You can go fuck yourself.
Marie.
You're… you're safe. Don't worry, okay?
Huh?
Marie.
Hear me out. You can't stay here.
They'll look for you.
If you want to be free from those men,
leave Belgium forever.
You need to call your dad.
He'll take you to the airport today.
And what about you?
I can't leave without you, Kiwan.
Huh?
I still don't have citizenship, so, uh…
I can't come and go as I please just yet.
But you already knew that.
All of this is my fault. I ruined everything.
We were in such a good place, and now it's all over.
That's not true.
What we have is too strong.
Nothing can tear us apart.
Listen, what if I told you…
the best thing to happen to me was stealing your wallet, huh?
When I first met you,
I was about ready to give up.
I kept going just to see your face again.
But you made me believe life was worth it.
You're the reason I'm still here, Kiwan.
Your father once said to me…
I wasn't strong enough to be with you.
His words were like daggers in my heart.
I felt unworthy of you.
But that's when I promised myself…
I would become the person you needed.
A guy that would always be there for you.
So I vowed to prove your father wrong.
You mean a lot to me, Marie.
Hmm.
So someday soon…
we'll be together again.
He's here.
Hop in the back.
Oh, yeah. Uh…
So, uh, call me as soon as you land to tell me you're safe.
Loh Kiwan,
that young man…
Turns out he's a special guy.
Looking back, I wish I was a little bit nicer.
Please forgive me.
There was a time when Mom got worse.
So she would ring a bell when she needed help.
I wanted to ease her pain,
but at the same time, I couldn't bear to look at her.
So I…
sometimes wished she would fall asleep and never wake.
I felt so guilty for that.
And though I tried to hide it, she knew.
After she died, um…
I blamed myself for what happened to her.
You should have woken me up, huh?
There you go.
Please.
Please let me go.
I just lie around all day…
and wait to die.
It's unbearable to go on like this.
I can't go on.
-Jeong-ju, I, uh-- -My love.
I'm making you and Marie miserable each day.
I don't want to live like this anymore.
Make sure that Marie will never know the truth.
Don't let her know I chose to leave her like this.
And promise me that she won't know you were involved.
I don't want Marie
to feel like this was all her fault.
She can't know.
Otherwise, it would completely ruin her.
I'm sorry, and, uh, just know that, no matter what, I still love you.
I love you.
You ready?
Let's get going.
We kindly request that you move through screening
as soon as possible to avoid any delays in getting to your flight.
Don't worry about me, Marie.
Just leave and don't look back. Hmm?
Hey. Don't cry over this.
Don't worry. Things will work out, okay?
You know…
I still don't even have a picture of us.
I didn't get to travel anywhere with you.
And what if this really is goodbye for us?
-Marie. -Hmm?
One day,
we'll get to travel anywhere we like.
Hmm?
Look over there.
Turn around.
Madagascar.
I will take you there one day.
And we'll see those trees and turtles.
Also,
we'll go to Greece, Morocco, Turkey.
Okay?
We will travel all over this crazy world together
till our shoes are worn.
Yeah, until our feet hurt.
How's that sound?
Hmm?
Don't cry, Marie, or I'll feel sad, huh?
I love you.
It's time.
ONE YEAR LATER
FROM LOH KIWAN
I vowed to survive no matter what hell I faced.
Christelle Conil?
It wasn't easy, but I kept my vow.
Three for lunch?
I've made it this far.
I fought with everything I had to gain the right
to live and work in Belgium,
and I finally earned
the right to stay.
-Thanks for everything -Thank you.
We'll miss you.
But I've come to understand
that the few rights and protection I have under refugee status…
will disappear the moment that I step off Belgian soil.
Since you were young,
I've always believed that the color blue suited you best.
Comrade, you look great.
My life has been like a weathering storm, barely making it out.
Do I have in me to keep going?
I asked myself hundreds of times.
And every time,
I answered,
I'll go through as many storms as I have to.
Uh, may I see your ID?
RESIDENCE PERMIT LOH KIWAN
Thank you.
Uh…
Would you like a round-trip ticket?
No.
One way, please.
In the end, I realized my wish was
never to live in a country but
the right to leave it whenever I wanted.
That is still… my wish.
MY NAME IS LOH KIWAN