Microhabitat is a South Korean film directed by Jeon Go-woon and released in 2017. The film follows the story of Miso, a woman in her late thirties who works as a housekeeper and spends her earnings on cigarettes and whiskey. She refuses to compromise on her pleasures despite the increasing cost of living in Seoul, which eventually leads her to lose her rented apartment.
Miso decides to live according to her own rules and starts to couch-surf, staying with friends from her past. She reconnects with a former bandmate, a wealthy businessman, and other acquaintances who are now living in comfortable circumstances. Despite her strong will and resourcefulness, Miso experiences the harsh realities of homelessness and financial instability, leading her to reassess her priorities.
Throughout the film, Microhabitat puts forth various themes such as the generational divide between the older and younger generations of South Koreans, the high cost of living in Seoul, and the impact of poverty on personal relationships.
The movie was praised for its performances, especially that of the lead actress, Esom. Microhabitat had its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival in 2017 and was released in theaters in South Korea the following year. It received critical acclaim both domestically and internationally, solidifying director Jeon Go-woon's reputation as one of the most promising young filmmakers in South Korea.