In Why Can I Love But Not Marry You (2026), the complexities of love, fear, and commitment are at the forefront of this emotionally charged drama. Song Joong-ki stars as Joo Hyun, a successful man who is deeply in love with his partner, Na Eun (played by Park Shin-hye). Despite their undeniable chemistry and mutual affection, Joo Hyun cannot bring himself to commit to marriage. Haunted by past heartbreak and the fear of repeating his mistakes, he struggles with the weight of a decision that should be simple but feels impossible.

Na Eun, a strong and independent woman, has patiently waited for Joo Hyun to take the next step in their relationship. But as the years pass and her own dreams evolve, she begins to question whether love and marriage can truly coexist—or if she must ultimately choose one over the other. The film delves into the emotional turmoil of a relationship where love is abundant, but the commitment that could solidify it remains elusive.

Song Joong-ki brings a deep vulnerability to his portrayal of Joo Hyun, a man whose past scars shape his present fears. His inner conflict is palpable as he navigates the fine line between love and the hesitation to commit, making him both relatable and sympathetic. Park Shin-hye’s performance as Na Eun is equally compelling, portraying a woman torn between her love for Joo Hyun and her own desire for fulfillment and independence. Her struggle to reconcile her love with her need for a future of her own adds layers of emotional depth to the film.

Supporting performances from Lee Seung-gi and Kim Ji-won add richness to the narrative. Lee Seung-gi plays a friend caught in his own romantic dilemmas, offering a contrast to Joo Hyun’s struggles while providing comic relief and wisdom. Kim Ji-won, as Na Eun’s close confidant, helps ground the emotional weight of the film, showing the challenges of maintaining friendships while navigating romantic conflicts.

As the film unfolds, it becomes a poignant exploration of the fear that often accompanies deep love—the fear of permanence, of making irreversible choices, and of facing the consequences of past mistakes. Joo Hyun’s inability to move forward with Na Eun highlights a universal struggle in relationships: the balance between loving someone and being ready to commit to them for life. The emotional complexity of their bond is at the heart of the film, making the audience root for them even as they face their own emotional barriers.

Visually, Why Can I Love But Not Marry You is a beautiful exploration of contemporary love. The cinematography complements the themes of the film, with intimate shots that emphasize the characters’ emotional journeys. The settings, from cozy apartments to romantic outdoor scenes, reflect the tension between the warmth of their relationship and the coldness of commitment.

The soundtrack also plays a significant role in setting the tone, with songs that reflect the ups and downs of love and the challenges of commitment. Each piece of music complements the film’s emotional beats, intensifying the highs and lows that the characters experience.

Why Can I Love But Not Marry You is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film that tackles the complexities of modern love. It’s not just about the fear of commitment—it’s about the fears that come with love itself, the vulnerability, and the courage needed to take that leap into the unknown. Through its strong performances, compelling narrative, and relatable themes, the film leaves a lasting impression on anyone who has ever struggled with the balance between love and commitment.

Rating: ★★★★★ 9/10 – A thoughtful, emotional drama about love, fear, and the challenges of commitment.
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