The King

Born into a poor family, Tae-su's early life was marked by hardship and limited opportunities. Despite these challenging circumstances, he developed a strong determination to succeed and sought to improve his social standing. His ambition led him to pursue a career in law, with the ultimate goal of becoming a prosecutor, which at the time was widely regarded as a symbol of power and influence.

Tae-su's journey to achieve his dream was rigorous. He enrolled in Korea’s most prestigious law school, where he dedicated himself to his studies amidst a backdrop of turbulent political change. During his time at university, Korea experienced significant democratic resistance, which exposed him to the complexities of justice, power, and societal reform. These formative experiences shaped his understanding of authority and the importance of influence in shaping the nation's future.

After years of effort and overcoming numerous obstacles, Tae-su finally achieved his goal of becoming a prosecutor. However, his initial expectations about the prestige and power associated with the role did not materialize into personal fulfillment. Instead, he found that his life as a prosecutor was largely similar to that of a salaried worker—rigid, demanding, and lacking the influence he had envisioned. His professional life was characterized by routine work and a constant struggle to make a significant impact.

Seeking greater power and status, Tae-su unexpectedly joins a clique of influential prosecutors. This group is composed of individuals who wield considerable wealth and authoritative influence within the legal system. As he immerses himself in this powerful network, Tae-su begins to experience the allure of being part of the top hierarchy. He starts to enjoy the privileges and respect that come with such a position, feeling the thrill of real power that he once only dreamed of.

However, as Tae-su delves deeper into this world, he becomes increasingly aware of its darker sides. The life of privilege is intertwined with cruelty, corruption, and moral compromises. The apparent sweetness of dominance begins to reveal its bitter truths, forcing him to confront the ethical dilemmas and sacrifices that come with wielding significant power. Tae-su's story is then one of ambition, aspiration, and the complex realities of power in modern society.