Why a Cuckoo Cries 1967
Why a Cuckoo Cries (1967), a haunting Korean horror-drama directed by Lee Kyu-woong, weaves a tragic tale of doomed love and supernatural retribution.
Director: Lee Kyu-woong
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Why a Cuckoo Cries (1967) about?
Why a Cuckoo Cries (1967) is a tragic horror-drama about Yun, a man torn between societal expectations and his first love, Ok-hwa. After yielding to family pressure and marrying another, Yun is haunted by Ok-hwa's vengeful spirit, forced to confront the pain he caused her.
Who directed Why a Cuckoo Cries?
Why a Cuckoo Cries was directed by Lee Kyu-woong, a filmmaker known for blending drama with Korean folklore and social commentary.
Who stars in Why a Cuckoo Cries?
The film stars Kim Ji-mi as Ok-hwa, Shin Seong-il as Yun, Hwang Jeong-sun, and Do Kum-bong, delivering performances that heighten its emotional and supernatural tension.
Is Why a Cuckoo Cries (1967) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, Why a Cuckoo Cries offers a gripping mix of drama and horror that fans of classic Korean cinema will appreciate. Its themes of betrayal and remorse remain universally resonant, making it a compelling watch for those who enjoy atmospheric, character-driven ghost stories.
How long is Why a Cuckoo Cries?
Why a Cuckoo Cries runs for 103 minutes.
Why a Cuckoo Cries (1967): A Haunting Tale of Love and Revenge — Full Movie Info
Why a Cuckoo Cries (1967), a haunting Korean horror-drama directed by Lee Kyu-woong, weaves a tragic tale of doomed love and supernatural retribution. Set against the rigid social hierarchies of 1960s Korea, the film follows Yun, the privileged son of a government official, who abandons his true love, Ok-hwa—the daughter of a former gisaeng—after being pressured into an arranged marriage. Consumed by grief and guilt, Ok-hwa's spirit returns as a vengeful ghost, haunting Yun with her sorrow and forcing him to confront his betrayal. The film masterfully blends eerie folklore with emotional drama, creating an atmosphere thick with melancholy and dread.
With its stark contrast between societal expectations and personal desire, Why a Cuckoo Cries explores themes of love, regret, and the inescapable consequences of betrayal. Lee Kyu-woong's direction infuses the story with a dreamlike quality, where every shadow and whisper feels laden with tragedy. The film's haunting visuals and poignant performances—particularly from Kim Ji-mi as the tragic Ok-hwa and Shin Seong-il as Yun—make it a standout entry in Korean horror-drama cinema. A forgotten gem, it lingers in the mind long after the final shot.