The Day After Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Day After.
The Day After Ending Explained: On her first day at work, Areum replaces a woman who broke up with the boss. Directed by Hong Sang-soo, this 2017 drama film stars Kwon Hae-hyo (Kim Bongwan), alongside Kim Min-hee as Song Areum, Kim Sae-byuk as Lee Changsook, Cho Yun-hee as Song Haejoo. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Day After?
On her first day at work, Areum replaces a woman who broke up with the boss. The wife of the boss finds a love note, bursts into the office, and mistakes Areum for the other woman.
Hong Sang-soo's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Kwon Hae-hyo (Kim Bongwan)'s journey. The wife of the boss finds a love note, bursts into the office, and mistakes Areum for the other woman.
How Does Kwon Hae-hyo (Kim Bongwan)'s Story End?
- Kwon Hae-hyo: Kwon Hae-hyo's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Kim Min-hee (Song Areum): Kim Min-hee's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Kim Sae-byuk (Lee Changsook): Kim Sae-byuk's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Day After Mean?
The Day After's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Kwon Hae-hyo may feel rushed. Hong Sang-soo's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.