Jungle Story

This realistic Korean drama chronicles the personal and professional travails of aspiring rock star Do-Hyun (played by real-life rock musician Yoon Do-Hyun). Do-Hyun's initial bid for stardom was interrupted by mandatory military service. After completing his two years, he gets involved with a small-town band. Unfortunately, in Korea, young people are strongly discouraged from listening to or performing rock music. Do-Hyun's father constantly tries to get his son to stop playing. Unable to deal with the pressure, Do-Hyun flees to Seoul and hooks up with an old pal who performs regularly in the city's singular underground bar. A talented singer, Do-Hyun ends up managed by the clever Ji-Woo and soon finds himself groomed to become the latest teenage idol by the MOR recording company. He manages to get a CD recorded, but just before its release, the company, feeling that Do-Hyun's music is too bland, suddenly backs out and his career abruptly stalls. With a single disk in hand, he makes his daily visit to a local pharmacy where he gives it to the pretty counter clerk. Although there is a definite attraction between the two, nothing ever comes of it. Meanwhile, Do-Hyun continues his almost-fruitless battle for stardom.~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide