Told in reverse chronology, Yong-ho (Sul Kyung-gu) retraces the tragic circumstances of his life prior to his poignant suicide attempt. Rewinding from highlights of his idealistic youth, through to various occupations as a soldier, police office, and financial investor; also marred by social and political complications of South Korea''s recent history. Lee''s sophomore film is driven by harrowing melancholy and accelerated his status from novelist to international art film sensation.