episode 1
The cold morning air bites against Kang Jihoon’s skin as he runs through the training ground, his breath forming small puffs in the air. Dressed in his military fatigues, he blends in with the other soldiers. But he is not just another recruit—he is South Korea’s biggest celebrity, serving his mandatory military service like any other citizen.
Jihoon has always started his mornings with optimism, believing that each new day brings fresh opportunities. But today… today feels different. A strange unease lingers in his chest, an unshakable feeling that something in his life is about to change.
A whistle blows, signaling the end of training. As Jihoon wipes sweat from his brow, he notices his superior officer approaching.)
officer
(sternly) Private Kang, you have a visitor.
Jihoon’s brows furrow. He isn't expecting anyone. He follows the officer to the visitor’s area, where his manager, Park Minho, waits, a troubled expression on his face. Beside him stands another man—Detective Baek Sungmin, Jihoon’s childhood best friend, now a high-ranking officer in the police force.
jihoon
(lowering his voice) Hyung, what are you doing here? I still have six months left.
manager
(glances around nervously, then leans in) Jihoon-ah… Someone stole your money. All of it.
Jihoon stiffens. His heart pounds as he processes the words. Billions of won—gone. His hard-earned success wiped out in an instant.
detective baek
(clearing his throat, visibly uncomfortable) It was an inside job. We’ve identified a criminal group behind it, but they have dangerous connections.
jihoon
(staring at his best friend in disbelief) Inside job? You
detective baek
(nods hesitantly) Most likely. The transactions were carefully planned, using backdoor access to your accounts. Whoever did this knew exactly how to bypass the security
jihoon
(voice rising slightly) And you’re telling me this now? How long have you known?
detective baek
(looking away, visibly conflicted) It’s not that simple. This gang they control more than just money. They have influence in places you wouldn’t expect. If I push too hard, I might put you in more danger.
jihoon
(laughs bitterly, shaking his head) You’re scared? Baek Sungmin, the guy who used to fight bullies for me in high school, is scared?
detective baek
(Firmly) I’m not scared, Jihoon. I’m being careful. There’s a difference.
jihoon
(crosses his arms, his voice tinged with disappointment) Careful? Sounds like an excuse.
manager
(interrupts before the tension escalates further) Jihoon, listen. We’ve already filed a case, and some money has been traced back. But the moment we moved against them, we started getting threats. This isn’t just about money anymore. They don’t care about legal actions—they want you to pay.
jihoon
(inhales sharply, his mind racing) So what am I supposed to do? Just sit here and wait for them to come after me?
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