---
title: "Burning"
year: 2018
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/burning-2018"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 491584
imdb_id: "tt7282468"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 148
community_rating: 7.4
vote_count: 1840
content_rating: "NR"
---

# Burning (2018) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/burning-2018

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The 2018 film Burning follows a deliveryman named Jong-su who encounters Hae-mi, a woman who previously lived in his neighborhood. After their chance meeting, Hae-mi asks Jong-su to care for her cat while she travels to Africa. Upon returning from her trip, Hae-mi introduces Jong-su to an enigmatic young man named Ben, whom she met while abroad. The narrative centers on the evolving dynamic between the three individuals as they spend time together. The tension in the story shifts when Ben eventually shares a revelation with Jong-su regarding his most unusual hobby. This interaction serves as a focal point for the film, complicating the relationship between the deliveryman and the wealthy stranger. The plot explores themes of mystery and uncertainty as Jong-su attempts to understand the nature of Ben and his unsettling confession. The film remains focused on these interpersonal developments and the questions raised by Ben’s behavior throughout the duration of the story.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A deliveryman's ordinary life spirals into mystery after a childhood friend returns with a secretive stranger."

### Why Watch
- Intriguing mystery that unfolds slowly
- Atmospheric drama with psychological tension
- Extended runtime allows deep visual storytelling

### Caveats & Content Note
- At 2h28m it may feel lengthy for some viewers
- The ambiguous narrative may leave questions unanswered
- Tone & Suitability: The film’s moody, unsettling tone and adult themes make it suitable for mature audiences.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: slow-burn, mystery, psychological, drama

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | YouTube TV, MUBI, MUBI Amazon Channel, Fandor Amazon Channel, AsianCrush, Cineverse, Cineverse Amazon Channel | Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome, YOW.tv | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |
| **Canada (CA)** | MUBI, AsianCrush | Hoopla | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | None | JustWatch TV, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Lee Chang-dong
- **Networks / Studios**: Pinehouse Film, NOWFILM, NHK

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Yoo Ah-in** as *Lee Jong-su*
- **Steven Yeun** as *Ben*
- **Jeon Jong-seo** as *Shin Hae-mi*
- **Kim Soo-kyung** as *Yeon-ju*
- **Choe Seung-ho** as *Lee Yong-seok*
- **Moon Sung-keun** as *Lawyer*
- **Min Bok-gi** as *Judge*
- **Ban Hye-ra** as *Jong-su's Mother*
- **Cha Mi-kyung** as *Hae-mi's Mother*
- **Lee Bong-ryeon** as *Hae-mi's Sister*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What genre does the film belong to?
It is classified as a mystery, drama, and thriller.

### Q: How long is the movie?
The runtime is approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes.

### Q: What is the protagonist’s occupation?
Jong‑su works as a deliveryman.

### Q: Who asks Jong‑su to look after a cat?
His former neighbor Hae‑mi asks him to watch her cat while she travels.

### Q: Is the film rated?
The film is listed as not rated (NR).

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*