All About My Wife (2012) is a South Korean romantic comedy that dares to ask what happens when you try to outsource your own divorce—and accidentally rediscover your marriage. Directed by Min Kyu-dong and adapted from the Argentine film Un novio para mi mujer (2008), the film delivers razor-sharp wit, layered emotions, and one of the most charming love triangles in Korean cinema. With powerful performances from Im Soo-jung, Lee Sun-kyun, and Ryu Seung-ryong, All About My Wife brings something rare to the genre: sincerity dressed in absurdity.
At the heart of All About My Wife is Lee Doo-hyun (played by Lee Sun-kyun), a man who feels quietly strangled in his marriage. His wife, Yeon Jung-in (Im Soo-jung), is intelligent, beautiful, and an excellent cook—but her nonstop complaints and brutally honest personality have left him emotionally drained. Too afraid to ask for a divorce, and too exhausted to stay, Doo-hyun devises an outrageous solution: hire someone else to seduce her so she’ll be the one to leave him.
That someone is Jang Sung-ki (Ryu Seung-ryong), a legendary Casanova who has a reputation for making any woman fall in love with him. Intrigued by the challenge and the money, Sung-ki agrees to the scheme, and the “mission” begins. Meanwhile, Jung-in, unaware of her husband’s plan, finds a new voice by taking a job as a radio talk show host. Her fierce monologues about life, disappointment, and modern relationships quickly earn her a loyal fanbase—one that now includes Sung-ki himself.
As the seduction progresses, something unexpected happens: Doo-hyun becomes jealous. Sung-ki begins to fall for Jung-in. And Jung-in? She finally starts to feel seen, even if she doesn’t know by whom. The comedy escalates, but so does the emotional tension. What began as a petty trick becomes a genuine triangle of love, guilt, and self-discovery.
Why All About My Wife Stands Out in Korean Romantic Comedy
What makes All About My Wife so special is its refusal to follow traditional romantic comedy formulas. Instead of a sweet beginning, it starts with resentment. Instead of falling in love, the characters fall apart—and only then do they understand what love requires. The film isn’t just about romance; it’s about communication, unmet emotional needs, and how easily we become strangers to the ones we live with.
The screenplay balances humor with insight, never making its characters caricatures. Jung-in, often perceived as “too much,” is ultimately revealed to be deeply misunderstood. Doo-hyun, rather than being a hapless victim, is forced to confront his own emotional immaturity. Even Sung-ki, the hired seducer, becomes more than just a device—he’s a man searching for meaning behind the charm.
Critical Reception and Box Office Legacy
Released on May 17, 2012, All About My Wife became a major box office success in South Korea, grossing $29.4 million and drawing more than 4.5 million admissions nationwide. It was praised for its smart direction, relatable themes, and unpredictable storyline. The chemistry between Im Soo-jung and her co-stars was a standout, with critics applauding her nuanced performance as both a difficult wife and a woman rediscovering her worth.
The film currently holds a 7.4/10 rating on MyDramaList and remains one of the most rewatchable Korean rom-coms of the 2010s. It’s also frequently cited in lists of top Korean romantic comedies for its clever plot, bold humor, and surprisingly emotional depth.
Where to Watch All About My Wife
You can stream All About My Wife or find more information through the following sources:
- 🔗 Watch the trailer on YouTube
- 🔗 Read the full synopsis and reviews on Wikipedia
- 🔗 User reviews and ratings on MyDramaList
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