“Project Y” is a South Korean neo-noir crime thriller starring Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo as two young women pushed to the edge as they attempt a life-changing gold heist. Directed by Lee Hwan, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September and will arrive in Korean theaters in January 2026.
“Project Y” Plot Overview
The film follows Mi Seon, played by Han So Hee, and Do Kyung, played by Jeon Jong Seo, who are trapped in the dangerous nightlife of Seoul’s Gangnam district. Both women share a fragile but earnest dream of saving enough money to escape their harsh reality and open a flower shop together.
Their plans collapse after a devastating betrayal that forces them deeper into the criminal underworld they have long tried to avoid. Hope resurfaces when they discover a hidden cache of gold bars valued at 8 billion won, roughly 6 million US dollars. Believing this is their only chance at freedom, they devise a risky heist that could either save their lives or destroy them.
Cast and Characters
- Han So Hee as Yun Mi Seon – A glamorous woman with fierce resolve, fully aware their heist might turn deadly. Han So Hee is an experienced K-drama actress with roles in Gyeongseong Creature, Nevertheless, and more.
- Jeon Jong Seo as Lee Do Kyung – A free-spirited risk-taker who believes this is their one chance at a bigger life. Jeon Jong Seo has proven her acting skills in Wedding Impossible, Queen Woo, and Money Heist: Korea.
Supporting Cast
- Kim Shin Rok, as Choi Ga Young serves as a mother figure to both women.
- Jung Young Joo appears as Hwang So, a tough character who warns others to “hold tight to your lifeline.”
- Lee Jae Kyoon plays Seok Gu, a rough and domineering figure who insists that people should “know their place.”
- YooA of Oh My Girl takes on the role of Ha Kyung, a mysterious woman who chillingly introduces herself as the “owner.”
- Kim Sung Cheol as CEO To, an antagonist who calmly announces that it is “time to end this.”
Creative Team and Production Background
“Project Y” is directed by Lee Hwan, who also co-wrote the script alongside Oh Yu Kyung and Kwak Jae Min. Wow Point and Climax Studio produce the film, and a creative team known for stylish, atmospheric storytelling.
Key creative staff include cinematographer Yoo Young Gi, whose visuals capture the neon-drenched danger of Gangnam nights. Editor Han Mee Yeon, and musician Gray composed the film’s tense and immersive score.
“Project Y” Release Date
“Project Y” made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 2025, where it received praise for its visuals and intense story. It was later screened at the Busan International Film Festival and the London East Asian Film Festival, where it won the Best Film award in the competition section.
The film is also confirmed to screen at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January 2026. Its theatrical release in South Korea is scheduled for January 21, 2026, with a simultaneous release planned for Japan.
“Project Y” Trailer
The trailer focuses on the crackling chemistry between Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo and the gritty neon-soaked visuals of Gangnam. Early festival reviews have been mixed but largely acknowledge several strong elements. Many praised the two lead performances, as well as the cinematography and music.
Some critics, however, have pointed out that the pacing feels uneven in parts, and certain character motivations could have been explored more deeply. Others noted that the film leans more toward a character-driven survival drama than a traditional action-heavy heist film.
Project Y gears up for theatrical release in January 2026.