Image Credit: Netflix
Netflix is set to launch its first Korean original animated film, Lost in Starlight, on May 30, 2025. Directed by Han Ji-won, known for the heartfelt queer drama The Summer, this new film blends science fiction and romance in a moving story about love tested by space and time.
A Love Beyond Earth
The story takes place in 2050, when Nan-young, a passionate astronaut, is chosen for a Mars mission. Her lover, Jay, is a quiet, introspective man who restores old audio equipment and lives peacefully on Earth.
As Nan-young prepares to leave, she detaches herself to avoid future emotional pain. But love isn’t so easily left behind. What follows is a tale of two hearts trying to stay connected across the vast emptiness of space.
Their relationship begins when Nan-young visits Jay’s repair shop with her mother’s vintage record player. That one meeting sparks a connection that deepens into something much more. But when duty calls Nan-young to the stars, the couple is forced into a truly long-distance relationship, separated by millions of miles.
A Retro-Futuristic Seoul
Visually, Lost in Starlight offers a dreamlike view of a futuristic Seoul, mixing soft sci-fi aesthetics with deep cultural identity. Familiar city landmarks like Sewoon Plaza and Jamsu Bridge are reimagined through a cozy, digital lens. The blend of retro items like vinyl records and analog gear, against a futuristic backdrop, gives the movie a unique retro-cyberpunk feel that sets it apart from most mainstream animated films.
Debut Voice Talent
The film also marks a first for its lead voice actors. Kim Tae-ri (as Nan-young) and Hong Kyung (as Jay) take on voice acting for the first time. Their performances add emotional depth to the characters—Kim brings life and vulnerability to Nan-young, while Hong’s calm voice gives Jay a soothing presence.
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A Big Moment for Korean Animation
This film isn’t just a love story, and it’s also a milestone as Netflix’s first Korean animated original, Lost in Starlight, represents a leap forward for the Korean animation industry, long overshadowed by its Japanese counterpart. With global streaming access, this film could help elevate Korean animated storytelling to new heights.
Where to Watch
Lost in Starlight premieres globally on Netflix on May 30, 2025. The trailer already hints at a deeply emotional and visually rich experience that fans of romance, sci-fi, or animated films won’t want to miss.
Q: What is Lost in Starlight about?
A: It’s a love story between a girl who goes to space and a boy who stays on Earth. Even though they are far apart, they try to stay connected.
Q: When will Lost in Starlight be released?
A: The movie will be released on May 30, 2025, on Netflix.
Q: Is Lost in Starlight a Korean movie?
A: Yes, it’s a Korean animated film and the first Korean original animated movie made by Netflix.
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