Stand by Me Ending Explained: A grandpa finds out he is not going to live for much longer so he decides to prepare for his grandson's future with something special. Directed by Bang Soo-in, this 2018 drama film stars Lee Soon-jae (Grandfather), alongside Jung Ji-hoon as Deok-goo, Jang Kwang as Grandfather Go-bok, Seong Byeong-suk as Ms. Jung. With a 6.9/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Stand by Me?

A grandpa finds out he is not going to live for much longer so he decides to prepare for his grandson's future with something special.

How Does Lee Soon-jae (Grandfather)'s Story End?

  • Lee Soon-jae: Lee Soon-jae's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Jung Ji-hoon (Deok-goo): Jung Ji-hoon's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Jang Kwang (Grandfather Go-bok): Jang Kwang's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Stand by Me Mean?

Stand by Me's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Lee Soon-jae may feel rushed. Bang Soo-in's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.