Adulting at Eighteen

In the bustling streets of Seoul, Adulting at Eighteen tells the story of To Yoon-seo, a reserved and detached journalist who works as an interviewer for the City Hall periodical. Her life revolves around capturing the cold, hard truths of the world around her, but she can't seem to shake off a sense of emptiness within. Her perception of human relationships is tainted by an unfortunate past, where she experienced the loss of her mother and, consequently, her ability to connect with others on a deeper level. To Yoon-seo's interactions with people are limited to carefully crafted questions and calculated responses, leaving her with a sense of detachment and isolation. Her colleagues view her as efficient and professional, but lack the emotional depth to truly understand her. Her world is one of grey areas, devoid of vibrant colors and genuine connections. Things take an unexpected turn when To Yoon-seo has a chance encounter with Soo-chan, a young deliveryman who has recently started working for a local food delivery company. Their initial interaction is marked by a heated argument in a crowded street, which stems from their differing perspectives on the city's noise pollution laws. Soo-chan is an out-of-the-box thinker who values individuality and freedom above all else. Their encounter leaves To Yoon-seo intrigued, and she finds herself pondering over the complexities of his personality. Their paths cross again, this time in a professional setting, when To Yoon-seo is assigned to interview Soo-chan for a story. Despite her initial apprehension, she finds herself drawn to his free-spirited nature and sense of optimism. Their conversations slowly begin to humanize her, forcing her to confront her own vulnerabilities and emotional numbness. As they spend more time together, To Yoon-seo starts to peel away the layers of her guarded personality, gradually allowing the warmth of their connection to seep into her heart. As the interview process progresses, To Yoon-seo starts to develop a rapport with Soo-chan that goes beyond her journalistic duties. He, in turn, begins to open up about his own dreams and aspirations, showcasing his passion for art and music. Their bond deepens, allowing To Yoon-seo to confront the emotional baggage that has been weighing her down for so long. She starts to see the world through Soo-chan's eyes, one that is full of vibrant colors and endless possibilities. However, their blossoming relationship is put to the test when To Yoon-seo's job forces her to make a difficult choice. She is assigned to investigate a new development project that Soo-chan is fervently opposed to, citing its potential to displace long-time residents and small business owners. Torn between her job obligations and her growing feelings for Soo-chan, To Yoon-seo finds herself at a crossroads. As the stakes rise, To Yoon-seo's sense of detachment begins to fade, replaced by a newfound sense of empathy and compassion. She starts to question the priorities of her job and the values that have guided her for so long. Will she choose her career and maintain her sense of detachment, or will she follow her heart and risk everything for a chance at genuine connection? The city around her seems to be pulsing with life, and To Yoon-seo finds herself drawn to its rhythms and melodies. In Adulting at Eighteen, director Young Ji Kim weaves a poignant tale of self-discovery and human connection in the midst of a bustling metropolis. As To Yoon-seo navigates the complexities of her job and her heart, she comes to realize that life is full of contradictions and paradoxes, but ultimately, it is the warmth and empathy of human relationships that give it meaning and purpose.