Modern Korea: Season 2, Episode 2 - The Man Who Would Be King (2021)

In the opening scene of "The Man Who Would Be King," the camera pans over a bustling marketplace in modern-day Seoul, filled with vibrant colors and the sounds of vendors calling out to customers. The protagonist, Joon-seok, a charismatic but disillusioned businessman, is introduced as he navigates through the crowd, his expression a mix of determination and weariness. He receives a phone call from his estranged father, who is in a hospital, prompting a wave of conflicting emotions in Joon-seok. He hesitates but ultimately decides to visit his father, revealing a complicated family dynamic.

As Joon-seok arrives at the hospital, he is met with a cold reception from his father, who is bitter about their past. The tension is palpable as they exchange harsh words, with Joon-seok expressing his frustration over his father's expectations and lack of support. This confrontation serves as a catalyst for Joon-seok's internal struggle, as he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and the desire to prove himself. The scene ends with Joon-seok storming out of the hospital, vowing to make a name for himself.

The narrative shifts to a flashback where Joon-seok recalls his childhood dreams of becoming a leader, inspired by stories of great kings and leaders. This moment is filled with nostalgia, as the visuals depict a younger Joon-seok, full of hope and ambition. However, the flashback is abruptly interrupted by the present, where Joon-seok is now faced with the harsh realities of adulthood. This juxtaposition highlights his internal conflict and sets the stage for his journey.

In the next sequence, Joon-seok attends a high-stakes business meeting with potential investors. The atmosphere is tense, and the stakes are high as he presents his innovative ideas. However, he is met with skepticism and criticism from the investors, who question his experience and credibility. Feeling cornered, Joon-seok makes a bold decision to pivot his pitch, drawing on his childhood dreams of leadership to inspire confidence in his vision. His passionate delivery captivates the room, and he secures the investment, marking a turning point in his professional life.

Following this success, Joon-seok celebrates with his close friend and confidant, Min-ji, at a local bar. The scene is lively, filled with laughter and camaraderie, but Joon-seok's underlying insecurities surface as he reflects on his father's disapproval. Min-ji encourages him to embrace his achievements and not let his past define him. This moment of support strengthens their bond and motivates Joon-seok to pursue his ambitions with renewed vigor.

The plot thickens when Joon-seok receives an anonymous tip about a corrupt business deal involving one of his investors. Intrigued and feeling a sense of justice, he decides to investigate further. This decision leads him to a series of clandestine meetings and late-night stakeouts, where he uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal. The tension escalates as he realizes the potential danger he is putting himself in, but his desire to expose the truth drives him forward.

As Joon-seok delves deeper into the investigation, he faces increasing threats from those involved in the corruption. One night, he is ambushed by thugs sent to intimidate him into silence. The confrontation is intense, with Joon-seok using his wits to escape rather than resorting to violence. He narrowly avoids capture, showcasing his resourcefulness and determination to stand up for what is right.

In a pivotal moment, Joon-seok confronts the main antagonist, a powerful businessman named Chairman Lee, in a high-stakes showdown. The confrontation takes place in a luxurious office, filled with tension as they exchange heated words. Chairman Lee attempts to bribe Joon-seok, but he refuses, standing firm in his principles. This decision solidifies Joon-seok's transformation from a disillusioned businessman to a man of integrity, willing to risk everything for justice.

The climax of the episode occurs during a public press conference where Joon-seok reveals the corruption he uncovered. The atmosphere is electric as he presents irrefutable evidence, shocking the audience and the business community. His boldness earns him both admiration and enemies, as the fallout from his revelations begins to unfold. The scene is filled with dramatic visuals, capturing the weight of his decision and the impact it has on his life and career.

In the final moments of the episode, Joon-seok returns to the hospital to confront his father once more. This time, he approaches with a newfound sense of purpose and confidence. The conversation is emotionally charged, as he shares his journey and the changes he has undergone. His father, initially resistant, begins to soften, recognizing Joon-seok's growth. The episode closes on a hopeful note, with the two men beginning to bridge the gap in their relationship, hinting at the possibility of reconciliation and understanding.

Betrayal is intricately woven into the narrative, particularly through the protagonist's relationships. As he becomes more consumed by his quest for power, he betrays the trust of those closest to him, including his mentor and friends. This theme is visually represented through tense confrontations and emotional exchanges, highlighting the personal cost of his ambition.

The main character, driven by a deep-seated need for validation and recognition, believes that becoming a leader will finally grant him the respect and authority he craves. His past experiences of being overlooked and underestimated fuel his ambition, leading him to make choices that often blur the lines between right and wrong.

Initially, the protagonist views his mentor as a guiding figure, someone who embodies the qualities he aspires to possess. However, as the plot unfolds, the mentor's disillusionment with the protagonist's increasingly ruthless tactics creates tension. The mentor's disappointment serves as a catalyst for the protagonist's internal conflict, forcing him to confront the moral implications of his actions.

The setting, a bustling urban landscape juxtaposed with serene traditional spaces, reflects the internal struggles of the characters. The chaotic city symbolizes the protagonist's ambition and the cutthroat nature of his pursuits, while the tranquil traditional spaces represent the values he is abandoning. This contrast heightens the emotional stakes and influences the characters' interactions.

A pivotal moment occurs during a confrontation with a former ally who challenges the protagonist's methods and motives. This encounter forces the protagonist to reflect on the collateral damage of his ambition, leading to a moment of clarity where he grapples with the realization that his pursuit of power has alienated him from his core values and relationships.

In "The Man Who Would Be King," there are several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Violence: The episode contains scenes of conflict that may include physical altercations, which could be intense for younger audiences.

2. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience significant emotional distress, including themes of betrayal and loss, which may be heavy for sensitive viewers.

3. Mature Themes: The narrative explores themes of power, ambition, and moral ambiguity, which may be complex and difficult for younger viewers to fully grasp.

4. Language: There may be instances of strong language or harsh dialogue that could be inappropriate for children.

5. Social Issues: The episode touches on societal struggles and injustices that might be upsetting or confusing for younger audiences.

These elements contribute to a more mature viewing experience, and parental discretion is advised.