In the Philippines, it’s commonplace to see scam masterminds enjoy luxurious freedom while small fry become sacrificial lambs when authorities swoop in. Doesn’t it make your blood boil to see such selective justice?
This is not the case in Citizen of a Kind, a Korean film that centers on how an ordinary person goes to great lengths to take down the big fish.
Duk-hee, a bubbly commoner, faces a sudden setback when a fire engulfs her laundry business. In her quest to find a solution through loans, she receives a proposal from a bank clerk, offering a seemingly perfect loan package. But first, she is required to pay various fees. It’s already too late when she realizes that the whole process is an elaborate voice phishing scam. Duk-hee has made several fee payments, leaving her penniless and homeless overnight. She reports it to the police, but they are unable to address her case.
Days later, Duk-hee receives another call from Jae-min, the scammer, who audaciously asks for her help in retrieving information about voice phishing, promising to reveal everything he knows in return. With nothing left to lose, Duk-hee flies to China, where the phishing organization is based. Accompanied by friends, she is determined to save the young man and reclaim what she lost.
Based on a true story, Citizen of a Kind addresses the pervasive issue of voice phishing, resonating with audiences in Korea and the Philippines alike. Duk-hee, portrayed by Ra Mi-ran (Miss and Mrs. Cops, Come Back Home, The Last Princess), is a relatable character. The award-winning actress hopes that victims won’t blame themselves for falling prey to such scams.
Jae-min, played by Gong Myoung (Hansan: Rising Dragon, Killing Romance), is a college student who, seeking a high-paying job, finds himself kidnapped by a voice phishing ring in China. Despite his actions, he believes Duk-hee can save him. Gong Myoung appreciated the role, stating, “The script felt fresh and enjoyable, unlike typical crime dramas. Its unique charm drew me to the film.”
Director Park Young-ju and the production team also highlight the psychological pain victims of voice phishing endure.
The director explained, “Many victims felt guilty, thinking they were foolish for falling for the scam. I wanted to portray Duk-hee as a relatable citizen hero.”
Actress Ahn Eun-jin (The Good Bad Mother) returns to the screen as Ae-lim, a taxi driver in Qingdao, China, whose knowledge of the area is crucial in locating the phishing organization.
Citizen of a Kind promises empathy, comfort, and a refreshing sense of satisfaction for many viewers. The movie is now showing in cinemas nationwide.