In 1908, in Hamgyongbuk-do, Ahn Jung-geun and his independence army achieved a major victory against the Japanese forces. However, Ahn releases the captured Japanese soldiers following the laws of war and this act sows distrust among his comrades. A year later, in Vladivostok, Ahn and like-minded patriots unite with one purpose—to reclaim their lost homeland. But with their mission leaked from within, the Japanese army begins their pursuit.

HARBIN captures the landscape of Harbin within its historical context while exploring how independence activists—including An Jung-geun—and their comrades formed relationships. Director Woo approaches this subject with a different rhythm, emphasizing solemn cinematography and the power of music over dialogue and storyline. The music guides viewers into the inner turmoil of those who devoted themselves to noble causes beyond personal lives. Conducted by music director Cho Young-wuk, the London Symphony Orchestra performed the score, which was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in the UK—the first time the Beatles music was recorded there for a Korean film. (Lee Hwajung)