My Royal Nemesis (2026) s01e04 Episode Script
Beyond Understanding
MY ROYAL NEMESIS
I look forward to working with you,
Ms. Shin Seo-ri.
Deal sealed.
Damn it.
Sir.
What in the world is going on?
It means I'm buying your company
with my pocket money.
Mr. Son, perfect timing.
You'll need to clean this up.
I just made them an offer
they can't refuse.
- Sir, not again…
- Yes, that's right.
It's exactly what you're thinking.
Mr. Son, you take care of them.
Please follow me.
Ms. Shin, you come this way.
Which way?
Here.
Towards me.
Why does he keep smiling?
A man should not be so frivolous.
EPISODE 4
BEYOND UNDERSTANDING
I can't stand looking at your red face.
Do something about it.
What? No.
I didn't mean for you to drink it.
Cha Se-gye, speak plainly.
What are you scheming?
What now? What's your problem?
Given the situation,
this contract business seems to be
anything but simple.
I am no fool.
You have sense, but no shame.
If anything, you should be
on your knees thanking me.
You can't afford
to be talking to me like this.
Bow down to you? What utter nonsense.
I have never bowed down
to anyone in my entire life.
No wonder you're still an unknown actress.
I'm only saying this once, so listen up.
The first law of investment.
Buy on fear, sell on hype.
I'm buying you at the lower limit,
just before delisting,
so I can sell you off at the peak.
Sell me? Are you saying
you're going to traffic me?
Not trafficking. Investing.
Investing, you say?
In other words,
you intend to bet big on my potential.
Is that what you mean?
More or less.
You could have just said that.
Why talk in circles?
Now I finally see why you possess
such an obstinate spirit.
You have blocked out the sun.
No wonder you are bitter and twisted.
Just look at that wide open view.
Is it not the most refreshing?
What are you doing? Someone might see.
"Vast heavens, precious earth."
Your spirit grows cold
because you turn from such precious light.
Some of us have no windows
and stare at walls all day.
You take it for granted.
You have no windows at home?
I do, but it is a window
in name only. That is the issue.
Enough about the windows.
We're done here.
Shouldn't you be going now?
I was just leaving.
Unbelievable.
That man blows hot and cold.
I mean, he beckons me to follow,
and then he casts me aside
the moment he is done with me.
Oh no.
When did this get so swollen?
I can't stand that bright red face.
Do something about it.
He did not give it to me to drink.
He gave it to me to rub on my face.
That Cha Se-gye. He is so uselessly soft.
Why did I do that?
Why did I make
such a reckless, unplanned move?
Did that weird dream break my brain?
Then again, a meticulous planner like you
would never go off track.
That is, unless you've fallen in love.
Me? With a crazy woman like that?
Not unless I'm dead and buried
in the dirt.
- Did some dirt get in your eye?
- Damn it.
Shall I get you some eye drops?
What? When did you get here?
I've been here since Ms. Shin left.
Are you a hitman or something?
I can't even hear you breathe.
You said my breathing bothered you,
so I honed this skill.
Zero-gravity breathing.
So?
What did you hear?
"Is my brain broken?"
"With a crazy woman like that?"
"Maybe when I'm dead…."
That's enough.
I think this situation could be
quite easily misconstrued.
You have to read between the lines.
I don't let things
like compassion or pity sway me.
I am no humanist
when it comes to business.
Yes, I'm already aware of that.
After that rear-end collision last year,
you had me working all night
with casts on both legs.
Wow.
No one with a shred
of humanity could do that.
- I understood then.
- Okay, you can leave now.
Just a few slaps to the face,
and I'm acting like some forlorn stray
caught in the rain.
What a fool.
Go away.
Shoo.
Shoo. Go.
Go to your owner.
Shoo.
By the looks of you, you must be homeless.
So am I.
Clinging to me is pointless.
Hey, dog.
Stop following me.
You are not wanted here.
Jeez.
Go away!
No, I did not ask you to fetch.
Why are you so clingy?
DAEBAK BOARDING HOUSE
Windfall luck was never in my fate.
I may possess exceptional talents
and striking looks,
but the winds have been too favorable.
Yes, windfalls that blow in without effort
are bound to blow back.
He may call it an "investment,"
but that obstinate man
must still want something from me.
Why else would he be such a sucker?
Jeez, you're always watching dramas.
If you put that drive to good use,
you'd already be employed.
Why are you nagging me?
Even my mom doesn't do that.
Even job seekers need room to breathe.
I have never once seen you studying.
Are you a fan of Yoon Ji-hyo or something?
Are you a Yoon Ji-hyo fan too?
A fan?
Silently rooting for them makes you a fan.
You wish them well, worry about them,
and send them gifts.
Of course. He must be my fan.
So the beef was a tribute offering.
My good man.
Are these so-called fans
like guardian angels?
Always worrying about useless things,
wishing you well, and taking your side?
Guardian angels?
Well, that's basically what it means.
Then what should I do for this fan?
Why do anything?
Your existence alone is a gift to them.
They offer such kindness
and expect nothing in return?
No, that's not it. These days,
stars give back to their fans.
They call it a "gift in return."
- Gift…
- A gift in return.
A gift in return.
Then again, even our Lady Ji-hyo
buys her fans luxury goods
and writes them letters by hand.
Luxury goods?
Handwritten letters…
So this… "gift in return" business.
What else does it entail?
Using the launch of Dynaestie
as a stepping stone,
Biojei has decided to acquire
Shin Seo-ri's talent agency.
An anonymous company poll
on Ms. Shin Seo-ri's public image
showed a positive response.
So there were no major objections,
but the funding is a concern.
The Kaiserman issue
also remains unresolved.
Don't worry about that.
I'll find a way to handle it.
What are you doing here?
You never come to my fishing spot.
That's a bit harsh to say
to your only grandson.
Coming here on your own, unannounced,
must mean you come
with ulterior motives. Am I wrong?
Okay, I'll be frank, Grandfather.
I need a loan against my trust fund.
You ask for money so easily,
as if you're owed it?
You think money is easy?
If it were that easy,
I wouldn't look so defeated.
I've given this a lot of thought.
Yes, Attorney Choi told me
you borrowed investment money
from Mun-do.
You need quick cash
if you're starting a new business.
When it comes to backing,
nothing beats the Bank of Grandpa.
It won't be free money, punk.
Did you ever see me make
a losing deal, even with family?
What do you want this time?
Let's go. I'll buy you a nice dinner.
You think you can
just buy me off with a meal?
Forget it.
I have somewhere else to be.
JINMI JANGSUGOL PORK BACKBONE STEW
Gosh, this place is packed today.
It's full, Chairman Cha. Wait out there.
No perks for a 40-year regular?
I've been buying your soup
since your shantytown days.
It doesn't matter
if you're a 40-year regular or a CEO.
Here, there's one rule.
Everyone waits in the same line.
Now get out.
You're one stubborn old lady.
It's just that I don't have time today.
My goodness.
Hey, what about sharing
a table with someone?
That young lady is by herself.
As if kids these days
share tables with old geezers!
Hold on.
Excuse me, miss.
There aren't any seats left, you see.
Could I possibly join you?
I'm almost done. Please wait.
I'm just a little short on time, you see.
Just help me out here.
Then you should have timed it better.
- Good grief. I do not owe you a seat.
- Well, then…
I'll pay for your meal, miss.
How about it?
Deal sealed.
That wide open view.
Is it not the most refreshing?
Some of us have no windows
and stare at walls all day.
You take it for granted.
Mr. Son, are there still apartments
without windows these days?
I mean, don't you need windows
to get a building permit?
It could be built illegally.
Cheap rentals and boarding houses
might not have them.
Really? No windows?
So, a window that opens
to face a wall is also possible?
Usually, in a boarding house,
windows, bathrooms, and refrigerators
are all considered amenities.
I guess the cheapest rooms
wouldn't have them.
Why the sudden interest?
Oh, I was just passing by a TV
playing Screening Humanity.
I see…
Why is a young person like you
eating soup all by yourself?
I prefer being alone.
Nothing to grate on my nerves either.
That's true.
Hold on.
Judging by his facial features,
his disposition is petty
and insufferably thin-skinned,
but he has a "hanging gallbladder" nose.
His coffers are generously lined.
He is blessed with wealth
and ample provisions.
The classic face of a man
of immense means.
In that case…
Excuse me, mistress!
- One seafood pancake, please.
- Right away.
Miss, why did you order that?
I was just thinking,
and I realized suppertime is upon us.
Peak evening hours,
when establishments are at their busiest.
You are bound to wait anywhere you go,
yet you secured this table with ease.
So adding a pancake should make it even.
Do you not agree?
It does feel like I'm fleeced
with my eyes wide open,
- but sure. Why not?
- Do not worry. I will share half.
Oh, right.
- One more thing, while we are at it.
- What now?
What are you going to do
with these leftover bones?
I have an important use for them.
You know, I'm known for being frugal,
but you're really something else, miss.
You'll never starve, that's for sure.
I get that a lot.
Thanks to you, I ate very well.
Take care.
A free meal and free bones.
She really got her money's worth.
Hey! Come here, Doggy! Spot! Scruffy!
Rover! Rusty!
Where could that dog have gone?
Did it just vanish into thin air?
Did someone already take it?
Whatever.
Who cares if someone took it or not?
My own belly is a prisoner of starvation.
What?
It was you?
Dingy little dog. Go on, get away.
I guess that is a dog's nose for you.
How did you ever find me?
I did not throw this for you to fetch.
I threw it to make you go away.
Silly dog.
Hey, spit that out!
You should not eat things like that.
Are you hungry?
Damn it.
Damn stray dogs and cats.
If I ever catch you, you'll be toast!
- You wait here.
- Just look at this mess!
- I will get you some food.
- Unbelievable.
Damn it.
Damn it all.
I hate my life.
Jeez.
Seriously?
I can't believe this.
Hey, Unit 203!
Where have you been all day?
I was just coming back from a stroll.
What is it?
You put our boarding house's number
on your résumé, didn't you?
The police just called.
It was absolute chaos.
The police station?
The police station?
The police? Why?
The assistant director
from that home shopping channel
filed an assault complaint.
I'm calling you after handing it over
to the legal team.
Really?
I'm sure you handled it.
I assume he got a bogus doctor's note
to try and get a big payout.
I'd rather do without cheap rumors.
Pay him double what he wants
and just shut him up.
Yes, sir. As a precaution,
I'll ensure Ms. Shin's case
is separated.
Shin Seo-ri?
What about her?
Okay. Everyone needs to calm down.
So, let me get this straight.
You grabbed him, and his arm was injured.
And he refused to pay you your wages.
So, we have unpaid wages and assault.
Are you going to sue each other now?
What do you mean?
Her wages have nothing to do with me.
Just the assault.
All this fuss over a simple wrist grab?
If I had tripped you,
you would probably pretend to be dying.
You are even making this dog laugh.
What? Because of you,
I'm about to lose my job.
My medical bills
and emotional distress.
You'll pay for it all!
I thought the compensation was settled.
Double the standard settlement
for a six-week injury diagnosis,
generously provided by my legal team.
Was that not enough?
- Who are you?
- Oh, right.
Along with this woman,
I was the other party in his assault case.
I paid a settlement,
so my case was dropped.
Are you saying you paid
to weasel your way out of this?
To leave me high and dry?
That's why it's always
better to have money.
It's not too late to start trying.
Although I'm not sure
you'll ever know what it's like.
Hey, you can just stay out of this.
Sir, let's just move this along.
We're all busy, aren't we?
- Yes, let's move this along.
- What?
Please file this as well.
What? Okay.
Let's proceed with a counter suit.
Breach of standard labor contract.
I discovered you were in charge
of managing the extras.
Just like your arm,
Ms. Shin suffered severe health issues.
Evidenced by her vomiting live on air,
currently under regulatory review.
And on top of that,
there are unpaid wages.
Should I just sue the entire network?
What?
There's no reason
to blow this up like that.
This is strictly a personal matter.
You're right.
So the network's the problem.
How about we file a joint lawsuit?
I'm no stranger to either side
of a legal battle.
Why you…
Cha Se-gye.
Did you rush over here
because you were worried about me?
No. I didn't come because I was worried.
The contractee owes
a duty of care to the contractor.
And this is practically next door
to my place.
"Practically next door"?
I see.
So are we what they call
"neighbor-cousins,"
who can often feel closer to you
than blood relatives?
Neighbor-cousins? As if.
Do you even know the property value gap
between our neighborhoods?
Always with that coy back-and-forth.
I know what is in your heart.
You came because you were worried
and missed me, right?
It's like you make a hobby
of twisting things to make it seem like
I worry about you.
Oh, all right.
It was that coyness that led me
to mistake your true intentions.
I shall not mind it at all.
And what's with the dog?
Just a dog I found.
Don't tell me.
You can't keep it in that windowless room.
- That is no concern of yours.
- Such a busybody.
Dogs are for life, you know.
You shouldn't pick up a stray
if you can't commit.
Fine, keep it or don't.
Do whatever you want.
Shin Seo-ri, before we enter
into this contract,
let's set one ground rule first.
- Go on.
- From now on, let's be sure to keep
our professional
and personal lives separate.
Whether by social class or by status,
we have absolutely no business
getting mixed up like this.
That should not be an issue for me.
However,
I am worried about you.
You will be absolutely itching to see me
in a more personal capacity.
Think you can resist?
You know, this conversation took
a mighty wrong turn earlier.
What kind of delusional thought process
leads you to conclude that I'd long
for someone like you?
Then let us do this.
Since you are worried
about this dog living in a room
without windows,
and I wish to give you a gift in return,
we can simply make an exchange.
"Gift in return"?
"Exchange"? You're not making any sense.
By any chance,
does that older brother of yours
- visit your home often?
- "Brother"? Who?
Choi Mun-do?
Why the hell would he come to my house?
You know, she just showed up
unfazed with her dog.
I explained to the police
that I planned to claim full compensation,
emotional damages included.
As I was doing that,
Mr. Cha Se-gye showed up,
just as you predicted.
He even had the charges
against Shin Seo-ri dropped.
Biojei Entertainment?
After recruiting Shin Seo-ri,
an obscure actress, Mr. Cha is looking
to acquire her agency as well.
A late-night trip to the police station
and a sudden agency acquisition.
How amusing.
Se-gye keeps creating
more leverage for me all on his own.
Despite being family,
it seems he is not someone
you welcome into your home.
"He"?
Why do you keep asking about Choi Mun-do?
What, is he your type or something?
My "type"?
He may seem like a good man,
but don't be fooled by his appearance.
He's totally two-faced.
He's the type to smile
while stabbing you in the back.
Bull's-eye!
The Crown Prince must have been
born with a divine gift for archery.
Every shot he takes is a bull's-eye.
- It's a pheasant!
- Look, a pheasant!
Bull's-eye!
Did His Highness hit the pheasant?
That is not all he can hit.
He hunts any wild animal
that roams near the rear garden.
Wild animals?
Go away!
Run far away from the palace!
Go!
Do not ever come near here again.
Go!
Just because you act all high and mighty
doesn't mean you suddenly gain authority.
True charisma…
Comes from actual ability…
You know what I mean?
All right.
Seeing how you so openly speak ill of him,
it seems you two are on poor terms.
He will certainly never visit.
Excellent.
Cha Se-gye.
I give you this dog as a gift in return.
I do not have the money
to buy luxury goods,
and I have no letter for you,
so I shall entrust this dog to you.
Think of him as an extension of me,
and take good care of him.
Are you nuts? Why would I…
This dog will be more comfortable
in your home than in my windowless one.
Here.
I am counting on you, Cha Se-gye.
Hey!
Hey, Shin Seo-ri!
I'm allergic to dogs!
Hey!
Damn it.
Stop wagging your tail. You're shedding.
When was your last bath?
You stink.
You're so loud. Be quiet.
Quiet! Be quiet!
Anyway, you'll be out of here by tomorrow.
I have fur all over me.
God, it's so itchy.
So itchy. Damn it.
Seriously? All because
of that crazy woman.
Damn it.
Should I just kick it out now?
What?
You kicked the dog out?
A man who poisons everything he touches.
A thousand cuts and being torn limb
from limb would not suffice!
May you rot and die a painful death!
Damn it.
Even just imagining it makes me sick.
God only knows what she'd do to me
if I just dumped it somewhere.
I should get rid of it properly.
Living alone must get lonely.
It's a gift for you. Take it.
Thank you so much.
It's a bit too dirty for a gift.
Then consider it a mission.
Just get it out of my sight.
You're allergic to dog fur.
Why did you bring it home?
You can clearly tell it's a stray.
I didn't find it. Someone forced it on me.
But you're not one to be saddled
with something against your will.
- Who was it?
- You don't need to know.
Anyway, get rid of this dog today.
Or just raise it yourself.
Sir, I can't take the dog either.
My Min-ji is very picky.
Min-ji?
Is Min-ji your girlfriend?
Min-ji is the name of my cat.
You wouldn't know
because you don't care,
but I've been a cat owner for ten years.
Then find it a home.
Pets are popular these days, right?
Well, the chances of a full-grown,
mixed-breed dog like this
- getting adopted aren't good.
- So what should I do?
You want me to continue living with it?
You poor thing.
Of all people, he had to find you.
I arranged this gathering
to mark a new beginning.
As a family, we should clear the air.
What is there to eat?
This is practically an empty plate.
Such poor hospitality. My goodness.
Why, this is
the ultimate land-and-sea delicacy
where the vitality
freshly drawn from the ocean
is combined with the spirit of Mount Jiri
to achieve a sublime harmony of opposites.
DIVINE FLAVORS
It seems our Seo-ri
has a real knack for mukbang.
We should get you on a food show too.
"Our Seo-ri"? Since when?
Oh, right. Director Kim called yesterday.
You've been cast
in The Women's Kingdom Season 2.
Since it's a new season,
they said they needed a new face.
So I got you a spot, Seo-ri.
Ma'am. How could you make
such a decision
without even telling me?
Why would I need to consult you
for a minor supporting role?
Are you done?
That yellow part was the most delicious.
You eat it.
Then I will not refuse.
My, you have a healthy appetite.
So healthy.
Quality over quantity, I see.
I must succeed
so I can eat that for every meal.
NEW MESSAGE
Binge-watch Season 1 before the meeting.
While you're at it,
analyze the trends of other hit shows.
You're probably rusty
after your long break.
How could I even be rusty
when I am just getting started?
Seeing is believing, I suppose.
Hey! Seriously.
You're talking over Ji-hyo.
Please be quiet.
You have turned to stone
in that very spot.
Is it that entertaining?
There's nothing like a drama
to escape reality.
Your reality seems pretty tough too.
Maybe you should binge-watch it.
I saw her playing the queen.
Her acting was insufferably vulgar.
What do you know about acting?
Jeez.
Unit 203?
My, this "binge-watching" business
is truly captivating.
Once you start,
you forget to even eat or drink.
…PALACE INTRIGUES
ASSASSINATIONS…
Did you need to go this hard?
Besides binge-watching,
I was told to analyze "the trends."
Is there anything else?
No?
SANDGLASS
I thought I could have you this way.
- Jeez.
- You're my woman.
He really does not understand women.
He would scare away any woman.
Impotent?
How could I be impotent?
- "Impotent."
- What are you talking about?
- "Impotent!"
- How could I be impotent?
How? How could I be impotent?
As if being impotent was a big deal.
The eunuchs could not fool around,
but they lived large and lavishly.
LADIES OF THE PALACE
You went between the Queen
and the concubines
to intentionally sow discord?
It has been ages since I heard
such a gratifying thrashing.
It is simply music to my ears!
There you go.
She's actually laughing at that.
You are amazing!
My goodness.
Since that obstinate man even took in
Young Master Dog,
I shall take this chance
to properly thank him.
Hey, Unit 203. You know your hanja.
I happen to be quite gifted
in classical verse.
Wait. "One…" Gosh.
Who is this for anyway?
As my funds for luxury goods are lacking,
I intend to give this handwritten letter
to my fan as a gift in reverse.
A fan?
I thought you were unknown.
You have a fan now?
Of course. Se-gye is the only one
who worries about me.
That concludes the contract signing.
Once the remaining purchase balance
and Ms. Shin's signing bonus
are deposited,
you will officially become a subsidiary.
Let's get this project moving quickly.
The marketing team will send over
the ad proposal this week,
so give us your feedback right away.
Yes, of course.
Wait, Mr. Cha.
Will we be taking a commemorative photo?
- A photo?
- Yes.
Okay, say cheese. One, two, three.
Good work, everyone.
Well, you must be very busy.
Shin Seo-ri, what now?
You knew it was me just from my footsteps?
You have a serious problem.
What now? What do you want?
You have been sniffling since earlier.
Is your body not hardy enough
to avoid a measly little cold?
Thanks to a certain someone, I'm a mess.
I've had a runny nose
for over a week now.
Yes.
As it is, I owe you a great deal.
So I wanted to take this chance
to thank you properly.
Here, take it.
What's this? A legal notice?
A missive.
I mean, a handwritten letter.
- A letter?
- Yes.
For me?
It is a letter expressing my gratitude,
so be sure to read it alone tonight
before you go to sleep.
It really is a missive. Hanja and all.
"Jak."
Is she messing with me? Damn it.
How did you fare last night?
By a sunlit window,
my fondness for you grows.
If the traces of my visits in your dreams
were left as a fragrance,
the green garden before your door
would be full of butterflies.
What does this even mean?
Someone might mistake this
for a love letter.
Hey! You little son of a…
Is it because
you're from the streets?
You try to snatch
anything that drops to the floor.
You'll get a tummy ache, you punk.
Damn it. Gross.
"Amazing."
MY AMAZING FAN
"My…."
"My man"?
"My…"
Amazing…
"Fan."
"My man"?
This woman is in love with me.
My goodness.
What an incredible view.
You have a job now.
Why stay in that windowless room
any longer?
You have the deposit money now,
and the rent will be the same.
Not to mention, you'll have
the whole floor to yourself.
Absolutely.
A place like this is a total steal.
A total steal.
The view is quite refreshing.
This will do.
Even a yard to run around in.
A new residence
calls for a proper ritual.
It has been a while.
Regarding the first draft
of the Dynaestie ad,
her agency's response has been positive.
A few details need tweaking
before it goes to the ad agency,
but we should be able to see a preview
by the end of the month.
Okay.
Hey, Mr. Son.
Have you ever received a love letter?
A love letter?
I've been dumped plenty of times.
Wait, I got a note from a Secret Santa
in elementary school.
No, not like that.
I mean a handwritten letter.
One that the sender personally wrote.
Why do you ask?
Did someone profess their love for you?
No.
Of course not.
When did I say that?
I'm just curious.
And why are you so curious?
I need to know why you're asking
so I can answer properly.
Just because.
I was wondering what the intention is
when people give love letters.
There's no hidden intention.
They're just sharing how they feel.
Feelings.
Not everything in this world
has dark ulterior motives
and conspiracies lurking underneath.
This world
is far more filled with humanity
than you think, sir.
So what? Are you saying
I always have dark ulterior motives?
How long must I handle
these menial tasks myself?
My graceful hands are getting calluses.
Delicate jade hands are
the very foundation of refinement.
I need to start taking care of them.
Damn it.
This should be good enough
to bring a dog home.
SHRINE OF DOG
Hey, Unit 203.
I mean, Rooftop.
Why aren't you answering your phone? Huh?
- What is that?
- Jeez.
Your grandmother must be busy.
She had it delivered this time.
I brought it up so it wouldn't go bad.
SENDER: NAM OK-SUN
Seo-ri, you got the storyboard, right?
The concept is very avant-garde,
and it's got
that trendy Gen Z style.
It's kitschy and well-executed.
Mr. Cha has good taste.
The shooting schedule will be out soon,
so really focus on your skincare regimen.
There are so many great options now.
Glutathione shots, whitening injections.
What is there to take special care of?
I was born with flawless skin.
Put the same fire you came at me with
into your skincare.
And you're booked for Jane Asks,
the YouTube show, on the day of the shoot.
Play up the sob story about your hardships
as an unknown actress.
Pile on the sorrow and sentiment
to make it a tearjerker.
But I do not know anything
about this woman.
NAM OK-SUN
17 YEONSOLRO 8-GIL, SONGJIN
Sir, your cough has been bad lately.
Are you taking medicine?
Medicine for a little cough?
It's an issue
you could resolve quite quickly.
Sir, that's already been taken care of.
I posted online,
and the dog's owner called right away.
Really? That's great.
Secretary Kim should be returning it
to the owner now.
You can sleep peacefully starting tonight.
Already?
The sooner we send it off,
the sooner your suffering ends.
I hired cleaners to remove
every single trace.
So don't worry.
I'm so grateful.
You know me.
She's going to miss it.
THE CHAIL SONGJIN RESOR
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY
- Gosh. Chairman.
- Hey.
- Welcome, sir.
- Thank you for your hard work.
- Thank you.
- Hang in there.
Thank you for working so hard.
Oh, my.
Did Father seriously bring him here?
Is he going senile?
They say time waits for no one.
Even after all the trouble he caused,
he still dotes on his own blood.
Ladies, people can overhear you.
You should be more careful.
Mun-do, you seem pretty relaxed.
Even after seeing this,
you can still be calm and philosophical?
Come on, sis.
Have you ever seen Mun-do get angry?
Why would I be angry?
Especially when Uncle is so happy.
Gosh, I really can't figure him out.
Is he actually happy or just pretending?
We will now break ground
for The Chail Songjin Resort.
One, two, three!
CHAIL E&C, SONGJIN CITY…
Please join me in a warm round of applause
for Songjin City, Chail Resort,
and their bright futures.
Thank you for always looking out for us.
- It's my pleasure.
- Thank you.
- Thank you so much.
- Once this project is completed…
- Yes.
- …we'll have you back.
- Thank you.
- By any chance,
does that older brother of yours
visit your home often?
- Thank you.
- I look forward to it.
Oh, my.
- Thank you.
- Thank you so much.
- I have high hopes.
- Exactly.
So you go around meeting
aspiring starlets now?
I have A-list stars
lining up for me as it is.
What would I do with a starlet?
Right?
Mind your personal affairs carefully.
Don't throw away everything you've built.
Se-gye.
Don't waste your time meddling.
Just focus on smiling.
The only thing you've got going for you
is the handsome face
you got from your mom.
You know?
- We'll be counting on you.
- Of course.
- Congratulations, President Choi.
- Your first dig.
Thank you so much for coming.
What the hell?
Hey.
Watch your mouth
before I smash that jaw of yours.
SONGJIN CITY WELCOMES CHAIL RESORT!
SEORI'S NOODLE SHOP
OPEN
Well, this feels a bit…
Goodness me.
Seo-ri!
Oh my gosh, Seo-ri! You're here.
Come here, my sweet girl.
You're really here.
Let me look at you.
Why are you so skinny?
I can't believe my sweet girl is here.
If you'd called ahead,
I would've grilled some meat.
The neighborhood looks deserted.
Everything is closed down.
How is business?
They say they're building some resort.
Everyone just sold out
for a handful of cash.
Just forget it.
If they are offering you money,
you should sell too.
- This work must be hard.
- Gosh.
Why would I? I'm still perfectly healthy.
I'll work as long as my body lets me.
At my age, not working is like being dead.
This here
is where I'll lay my head to rest.
I watched you grow up here
and sent you to school.
No other place in the world
could give me this kind of peace.
I mean, money isn't everything.
It was just the two of them.
They never had any need
for worldly possessions.
Eat.
This is needless meddling.
Get a grip.
Just look out for yourself.
I have this interview
- coming up, you see.
- Okay.
I have to tell them
stories about my hardships
and the pain of being a nobody.
Stuff like that.
Are you going to be on TV?
What channel will it be on?
I'll have to record that, you know?
My childhood memories are a little hazy.
What? You…
Don't remember your childhood?
Well, you know,
a lot of people forget
their childhood as they grow up.
Come to think of it,
you have been talking strangely lately.
You were the same way
after that accident when you almost died.
Maybe you're sick again?
Accident?
Granny, we're back.
Smells so good in here.
Yeah.
What did Mun-do say
to make you punch him?
You'd better speak up
if you're hoping for any leniency.
His face just pissed me off,
so I punched him.
No matter how much you dislike him,
Mun-do is still our blood.
Even with this resort project,
there's a headache of a restaurant
standing in the way.
Yes. That's it. That restaurant.
Some old lady is refusing to budge.
Mun-do's been working
day and night to take care of it.
SEORI'S NOODLE SHOP
How long are you going
to keep drifting alone like that?
Are you never coming back?
Now I'm even seeing things.
What? What did you say?
It's nothing.
Granny, this is awful. Just awful.
You can't run a restaurant
if you can't season.
Even thugs live by a code.
Wasting precious food like this?
Were you born without parents!
Seo-ri.
Oh, right. She's…
That granddaughter
who's acting in Seoul.
Well, you're a feisty one, aren't you?
You should help Granny understand.
Nowadays, people hate
shameless holdouts like you.
Hey! You think money is everything,
you rotten bastards?
Seo-ri.
I'll take care of this.
Get inside, quick. Go on now.
Now, now. Hey, Granny.
She should know what's going on.
She needs a reality check
if she's still chasing
that pipe dream of acting,
given her family situation.
What did you just say, you bastard?
You bastard! What did you say?
Goodness me!
Damn it.
Pretty strong for an old lady.
You got a lot of money?
Enough to pay my hospital bills? Damn it.
Forget the money.
Let me just hold that hand.
Still so fair. Granny's still got it.
Hey.
It's like you're begging for a beating.
Damn it.
Boss!
- Boss!
- Boss!
SEORI'S RUSTIC PERIOD
- Listen up.
- Let go, damn it.
We will never leave this place.
And we have no intention
of bowing down to your boss.
Because that would be the same
as bowing down to the Japanese.
Boss? The Japanese?
What the hell are you talking about?
Rustic Period, Episode 18.
The climactic episode
where Kim Du-han takes down Jebi.
Since you all are acting just like
a bunch of street thugs,
I, like Kim Du-han, will punish you all!
So you're Kim Du-han now?
Then I'm Gu Ma-jeok.
Why, you little…
- Boss!
- Boss!
- Boss!
- Boss, you okay?
What are you doing? Get her! Damn it!
Seo-ri, he's got a knife!
Cha Se-gye, what are you
Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?
A cowardly sneak attack from behind?
Why you…
Oh, no.
Cha Se-gye.
Are you here because you were
worried about me again?
No…
Cha Se-gye.
Did you read my handwritten letter?
Yeah. I…
And the dog?
Is it eating and doing well?
The dog?
Yeah, it's fine.
I have been meaning to reach out to you.
Excellent timing.
I've found a proper home now, you see.
So I will no longer need to trouble you.
I shall take the dog back.
Well? Is that not great news?
We found its owner.
Turns out it wasn't a stray.
You found its owner?
Mr. Son posted about it online.
Its owner came by right away.
It's for the best.
When I think about how much sleep
I lost over that damn dog…
Thank you.
What?
I am very grateful to you.
I know I said it in the letter,
but I wanted to say it to you in person.
You don't need to be so direct.
I have met many people here,
but you have been the kindest to me,
and I am most thankful.
You must be the best fan in the world.
Fan?
What do you mean, a fan?
Do not be embarrassed.
I know you care about me as my fan.
I am well aware of that fact.
I'm a fan of who now?
How can you say something
so egregious so easily?
A fan?
What's all this about?
Grandpa, it's nothing.
Don't worry about it. You can just go.
You're this lady's fan?
- No
- Who is she? Why are you her fan?
Wealthy Man?
Miss, how do you know my Se-gye?
He is my one and only fan.
A very reassuring presence in my world.
A fan? As if. No, that's not it…
We just know each other professionally.
But she says otherwise!
What the hell
have you been doing out there?
It's really not like that.
She misunderstood after I took pity
on her and helped her out a few times.
You pity me?
I taught them a mighty lesson.
They will stay away now.
If they start lurking again,
let me know immediately.
What's the point of raising
a granddaughter
if not for times like these?
I almost forgot.
This is nothing special.
Just some embroidered slippers.
Who…
Are you?
Anyone home?
Look at this. I knew it.
So much for a deep cleaning.
Just sloppy at best.
Thank you.
I am very grateful to you.
I know I said it in the letter,
but I wanted to say it to you in person.
What does she take me for?
He is my one and only fan.
A very reassuring presence in my world.
Why did she have to go
and misunderstand like that?
It's making me feel bad.
You pity me?
Why did she have to make that face?
Now I'm worrying about her.
It's a nice view, even at night.
I see why your grandmother
refuses to leave.
What brings you here?
No matter how nice the view may be,
leaving your grandmother alone
in a place like this
feels wrong.
Closing the restaurant
and moving her somewhere nice
would give you peace of mind too.
Trying the carrot
since the stick didn't work?
No, that's not the main reason.
I came to cheer you on.
Cheer me on?
I know you and Se-gye
aren't anything yet.
But I think you two would make
a surprisingly good couple.
You came all this way,
this late at night, just to tell me that?
Ms. Shin.
You should be friends with Cha Se-gye.
Even better if you become his person.
And even better
if you decide to share a future.
If you do, then I can promise you
a real future.
For both you and your grandmother.
A life of comfort.
They do not
just share the same face.
They even share an affinity
for detestable antics.
Your Highness, I shall bring in the soup.
Taste it for poison.
How does it taste?
It is a nourishing soup
made with the beast
I just caught in the rear garden.
Your Highness, I deserve death.
Killing you now would be a waste,
when you will be of great use to me.
I hear you are the court lady
who serves as a companion
to my brother with the damaged eye.
Become my brother's lover.
Or even…
His most cherished…
Dog would suffice.
Oh my gosh, Seo-ri!
You're here.
Come here, my sweet girl.
You're really here.
Have I ever, even once,
been loved unconditionally?
Ms. Shin.
You should be friends with Cha Se-gye.
Usefulness. Bait. Worth.
A life where none of that matters.
Where my existence
does not need to be justified.
How wretched.
How can life be so…
This should be good enough
to bring a dog home.
SHRINE OF DOG
Why did I make this stupid thing?
Are you crying?
This is the best you could find
with the signing bonus I gave you?
Why a rooftop of all places?
What kind of building has no elevator?
And it's so dark.
Why are you here?
I see. You came to mock me
for believing wholeheartedly
that you were my fan, like a fool.
I'm sorry.
Your grandmother's restaurant…
I'll apologize on their behalf.
Don't worry too much.
No need.
From now on, I shall handle
my own business. Stay out of it.
How can I just stay out of it
when you're always lingering around?
Even now, you're sitting here looking
all forlorn but refusing to budge, so I…
- So I keep
- You.
Do not look at me like that.
- Like what?
- With that look in your eyes.
With eyes full of pity.
Do not look at me with pity.
- How am I looking at you
- When you look at me that way,
I keep drawing the wrong conclusion.
You are not my fan or on my side,
but you look at me like that.
It makes me think…
I am…
Someone you harbor affection for.
- Affection?
- Yes. Affection.
Strangers do not worry about you
and cheer you on.
It is not just me.
Anyone would think that.
Stop it.
What if you weren't mistaken?
What?
I see strictly in black and white.
Black or white.
Ally or enemy. Love it or hate it.
But you're
neither one nor the other.
You keep confusing me.
Then let me enlighten you.
See? You remain unfazed.
That settles it, does it not?
No.
That won't suffice.
- If we're checking, we check thoroughly.
- How?
Like this.
MY ROYAL NEMESIS
A fierce war of courtship begins.
It's a green light for me.
I've decided to pursue you.
Once your heart wavers,
you become weak.
In this life, I shall become
a wealthy Buddhist nun.
She's actually playing hard to get.
Most males will shower
the females with gifts.
"I surrender! I'll die without you!"
Desperately…
So stop being
so pathetically clingy. Jeez.
- Don't say no a second time. Call me.
- Have we met?
In this courtship battle,
will he emerge victorious?
Do you truly harbor affection for me?
Subtitle translation by Justin S. Kim
I look forward to working with you,
Ms. Shin Seo-ri.
Deal sealed.
Damn it.
Sir.
What in the world is going on?
It means I'm buying your company
with my pocket money.
Mr. Son, perfect timing.
You'll need to clean this up.
I just made them an offer
they can't refuse.
- Sir, not again…
- Yes, that's right.
It's exactly what you're thinking.
Mr. Son, you take care of them.
Please follow me.
Ms. Shin, you come this way.
Which way?
Here.
Towards me.
Why does he keep smiling?
A man should not be so frivolous.
EPISODE 4
BEYOND UNDERSTANDING
I can't stand looking at your red face.
Do something about it.
What? No.
I didn't mean for you to drink it.
Cha Se-gye, speak plainly.
What are you scheming?
What now? What's your problem?
Given the situation,
this contract business seems to be
anything but simple.
I am no fool.
You have sense, but no shame.
If anything, you should be
on your knees thanking me.
You can't afford
to be talking to me like this.
Bow down to you? What utter nonsense.
I have never bowed down
to anyone in my entire life.
No wonder you're still an unknown actress.
I'm only saying this once, so listen up.
The first law of investment.
Buy on fear, sell on hype.
I'm buying you at the lower limit,
just before delisting,
so I can sell you off at the peak.
Sell me? Are you saying
you're going to traffic me?
Not trafficking. Investing.
Investing, you say?
In other words,
you intend to bet big on my potential.
Is that what you mean?
More or less.
You could have just said that.
Why talk in circles?
Now I finally see why you possess
such an obstinate spirit.
You have blocked out the sun.
No wonder you are bitter and twisted.
Just look at that wide open view.
Is it not the most refreshing?
What are you doing? Someone might see.
"Vast heavens, precious earth."
Your spirit grows cold
because you turn from such precious light.
Some of us have no windows
and stare at walls all day.
You take it for granted.
You have no windows at home?
I do, but it is a window
in name only. That is the issue.
Enough about the windows.
We're done here.
Shouldn't you be going now?
I was just leaving.
Unbelievable.
That man blows hot and cold.
I mean, he beckons me to follow,
and then he casts me aside
the moment he is done with me.
Oh no.
When did this get so swollen?
I can't stand that bright red face.
Do something about it.
He did not give it to me to drink.
He gave it to me to rub on my face.
That Cha Se-gye. He is so uselessly soft.
Why did I do that?
Why did I make
such a reckless, unplanned move?
Did that weird dream break my brain?
Then again, a meticulous planner like you
would never go off track.
That is, unless you've fallen in love.
Me? With a crazy woman like that?
Not unless I'm dead and buried
in the dirt.
- Did some dirt get in your eye?
- Damn it.
Shall I get you some eye drops?
What? When did you get here?
I've been here since Ms. Shin left.
Are you a hitman or something?
I can't even hear you breathe.
You said my breathing bothered you,
so I honed this skill.
Zero-gravity breathing.
So?
What did you hear?
"Is my brain broken?"
"With a crazy woman like that?"
"Maybe when I'm dead…."
That's enough.
I think this situation could be
quite easily misconstrued.
You have to read between the lines.
I don't let things
like compassion or pity sway me.
I am no humanist
when it comes to business.
Yes, I'm already aware of that.
After that rear-end collision last year,
you had me working all night
with casts on both legs.
Wow.
No one with a shred
of humanity could do that.
- I understood then.
- Okay, you can leave now.
Just a few slaps to the face,
and I'm acting like some forlorn stray
caught in the rain.
What a fool.
Go away.
Shoo.
Shoo. Go.
Go to your owner.
Shoo.
By the looks of you, you must be homeless.
So am I.
Clinging to me is pointless.
Hey, dog.
Stop following me.
You are not wanted here.
Jeez.
Go away!
No, I did not ask you to fetch.
Why are you so clingy?
DAEBAK BOARDING HOUSE
Windfall luck was never in my fate.
I may possess exceptional talents
and striking looks,
but the winds have been too favorable.
Yes, windfalls that blow in without effort
are bound to blow back.
He may call it an "investment,"
but that obstinate man
must still want something from me.
Why else would he be such a sucker?
Jeez, you're always watching dramas.
If you put that drive to good use,
you'd already be employed.
Why are you nagging me?
Even my mom doesn't do that.
Even job seekers need room to breathe.
I have never once seen you studying.
Are you a fan of Yoon Ji-hyo or something?
Are you a Yoon Ji-hyo fan too?
A fan?
Silently rooting for them makes you a fan.
You wish them well, worry about them,
and send them gifts.
Of course. He must be my fan.
So the beef was a tribute offering.
My good man.
Are these so-called fans
like guardian angels?
Always worrying about useless things,
wishing you well, and taking your side?
Guardian angels?
Well, that's basically what it means.
Then what should I do for this fan?
Why do anything?
Your existence alone is a gift to them.
They offer such kindness
and expect nothing in return?
No, that's not it. These days,
stars give back to their fans.
They call it a "gift in return."
- Gift…
- A gift in return.
A gift in return.
Then again, even our Lady Ji-hyo
buys her fans luxury goods
and writes them letters by hand.
Luxury goods?
Handwritten letters…
So this… "gift in return" business.
What else does it entail?
Using the launch of Dynaestie
as a stepping stone,
Biojei has decided to acquire
Shin Seo-ri's talent agency.
An anonymous company poll
on Ms. Shin Seo-ri's public image
showed a positive response.
So there were no major objections,
but the funding is a concern.
The Kaiserman issue
also remains unresolved.
Don't worry about that.
I'll find a way to handle it.
What are you doing here?
You never come to my fishing spot.
That's a bit harsh to say
to your only grandson.
Coming here on your own, unannounced,
must mean you come
with ulterior motives. Am I wrong?
Okay, I'll be frank, Grandfather.
I need a loan against my trust fund.
You ask for money so easily,
as if you're owed it?
You think money is easy?
If it were that easy,
I wouldn't look so defeated.
I've given this a lot of thought.
Yes, Attorney Choi told me
you borrowed investment money
from Mun-do.
You need quick cash
if you're starting a new business.
When it comes to backing,
nothing beats the Bank of Grandpa.
It won't be free money, punk.
Did you ever see me make
a losing deal, even with family?
What do you want this time?
Let's go. I'll buy you a nice dinner.
You think you can
just buy me off with a meal?
Forget it.
I have somewhere else to be.
JINMI JANGSUGOL PORK BACKBONE STEW
Gosh, this place is packed today.
It's full, Chairman Cha. Wait out there.
No perks for a 40-year regular?
I've been buying your soup
since your shantytown days.
It doesn't matter
if you're a 40-year regular or a CEO.
Here, there's one rule.
Everyone waits in the same line.
Now get out.
You're one stubborn old lady.
It's just that I don't have time today.
My goodness.
Hey, what about sharing
a table with someone?
That young lady is by herself.
As if kids these days
share tables with old geezers!
Hold on.
Excuse me, miss.
There aren't any seats left, you see.
Could I possibly join you?
I'm almost done. Please wait.
I'm just a little short on time, you see.
Just help me out here.
Then you should have timed it better.
- Good grief. I do not owe you a seat.
- Well, then…
I'll pay for your meal, miss.
How about it?
Deal sealed.
That wide open view.
Is it not the most refreshing?
Some of us have no windows
and stare at walls all day.
You take it for granted.
Mr. Son, are there still apartments
without windows these days?
I mean, don't you need windows
to get a building permit?
It could be built illegally.
Cheap rentals and boarding houses
might not have them.
Really? No windows?
So, a window that opens
to face a wall is also possible?
Usually, in a boarding house,
windows, bathrooms, and refrigerators
are all considered amenities.
I guess the cheapest rooms
wouldn't have them.
Why the sudden interest?
Oh, I was just passing by a TV
playing Screening Humanity.
I see…
Why is a young person like you
eating soup all by yourself?
I prefer being alone.
Nothing to grate on my nerves either.
That's true.
Hold on.
Judging by his facial features,
his disposition is petty
and insufferably thin-skinned,
but he has a "hanging gallbladder" nose.
His coffers are generously lined.
He is blessed with wealth
and ample provisions.
The classic face of a man
of immense means.
In that case…
Excuse me, mistress!
- One seafood pancake, please.
- Right away.
Miss, why did you order that?
I was just thinking,
and I realized suppertime is upon us.
Peak evening hours,
when establishments are at their busiest.
You are bound to wait anywhere you go,
yet you secured this table with ease.
So adding a pancake should make it even.
Do you not agree?
It does feel like I'm fleeced
with my eyes wide open,
- but sure. Why not?
- Do not worry. I will share half.
Oh, right.
- One more thing, while we are at it.
- What now?
What are you going to do
with these leftover bones?
I have an important use for them.
You know, I'm known for being frugal,
but you're really something else, miss.
You'll never starve, that's for sure.
I get that a lot.
Thanks to you, I ate very well.
Take care.
A free meal and free bones.
She really got her money's worth.
Hey! Come here, Doggy! Spot! Scruffy!
Rover! Rusty!
Where could that dog have gone?
Did it just vanish into thin air?
Did someone already take it?
Whatever.
Who cares if someone took it or not?
My own belly is a prisoner of starvation.
What?
It was you?
Dingy little dog. Go on, get away.
I guess that is a dog's nose for you.
How did you ever find me?
I did not throw this for you to fetch.
I threw it to make you go away.
Silly dog.
Hey, spit that out!
You should not eat things like that.
Are you hungry?
Damn it.
Damn stray dogs and cats.
If I ever catch you, you'll be toast!
- You wait here.
- Just look at this mess!
- I will get you some food.
- Unbelievable.
Damn it.
Damn it all.
I hate my life.
Jeez.
Seriously?
I can't believe this.
Hey, Unit 203!
Where have you been all day?
I was just coming back from a stroll.
What is it?
You put our boarding house's number
on your résumé, didn't you?
The police just called.
It was absolute chaos.
The police station?
The police station?
The police? Why?
The assistant director
from that home shopping channel
filed an assault complaint.
I'm calling you after handing it over
to the legal team.
Really?
I'm sure you handled it.
I assume he got a bogus doctor's note
to try and get a big payout.
I'd rather do without cheap rumors.
Pay him double what he wants
and just shut him up.
Yes, sir. As a precaution,
I'll ensure Ms. Shin's case
is separated.
Shin Seo-ri?
What about her?
Okay. Everyone needs to calm down.
So, let me get this straight.
You grabbed him, and his arm was injured.
And he refused to pay you your wages.
So, we have unpaid wages and assault.
Are you going to sue each other now?
What do you mean?
Her wages have nothing to do with me.
Just the assault.
All this fuss over a simple wrist grab?
If I had tripped you,
you would probably pretend to be dying.
You are even making this dog laugh.
What? Because of you,
I'm about to lose my job.
My medical bills
and emotional distress.
You'll pay for it all!
I thought the compensation was settled.
Double the standard settlement
for a six-week injury diagnosis,
generously provided by my legal team.
Was that not enough?
- Who are you?
- Oh, right.
Along with this woman,
I was the other party in his assault case.
I paid a settlement,
so my case was dropped.
Are you saying you paid
to weasel your way out of this?
To leave me high and dry?
That's why it's always
better to have money.
It's not too late to start trying.
Although I'm not sure
you'll ever know what it's like.
Hey, you can just stay out of this.
Sir, let's just move this along.
We're all busy, aren't we?
- Yes, let's move this along.
- What?
Please file this as well.
What? Okay.
Let's proceed with a counter suit.
Breach of standard labor contract.
I discovered you were in charge
of managing the extras.
Just like your arm,
Ms. Shin suffered severe health issues.
Evidenced by her vomiting live on air,
currently under regulatory review.
And on top of that,
there are unpaid wages.
Should I just sue the entire network?
What?
There's no reason
to blow this up like that.
This is strictly a personal matter.
You're right.
So the network's the problem.
How about we file a joint lawsuit?
I'm no stranger to either side
of a legal battle.
Why you…
Cha Se-gye.
Did you rush over here
because you were worried about me?
No. I didn't come because I was worried.
The contractee owes
a duty of care to the contractor.
And this is practically next door
to my place.
"Practically next door"?
I see.
So are we what they call
"neighbor-cousins,"
who can often feel closer to you
than blood relatives?
Neighbor-cousins? As if.
Do you even know the property value gap
between our neighborhoods?
Always with that coy back-and-forth.
I know what is in your heart.
You came because you were worried
and missed me, right?
It's like you make a hobby
of twisting things to make it seem like
I worry about you.
Oh, all right.
It was that coyness that led me
to mistake your true intentions.
I shall not mind it at all.
And what's with the dog?
Just a dog I found.
Don't tell me.
You can't keep it in that windowless room.
- That is no concern of yours.
- Such a busybody.
Dogs are for life, you know.
You shouldn't pick up a stray
if you can't commit.
Fine, keep it or don't.
Do whatever you want.
Shin Seo-ri, before we enter
into this contract,
let's set one ground rule first.
- Go on.
- From now on, let's be sure to keep
our professional
and personal lives separate.
Whether by social class or by status,
we have absolutely no business
getting mixed up like this.
That should not be an issue for me.
However,
I am worried about you.
You will be absolutely itching to see me
in a more personal capacity.
Think you can resist?
You know, this conversation took
a mighty wrong turn earlier.
What kind of delusional thought process
leads you to conclude that I'd long
for someone like you?
Then let us do this.
Since you are worried
about this dog living in a room
without windows,
and I wish to give you a gift in return,
we can simply make an exchange.
"Gift in return"?
"Exchange"? You're not making any sense.
By any chance,
does that older brother of yours
- visit your home often?
- "Brother"? Who?
Choi Mun-do?
Why the hell would he come to my house?
You know, she just showed up
unfazed with her dog.
I explained to the police
that I planned to claim full compensation,
emotional damages included.
As I was doing that,
Mr. Cha Se-gye showed up,
just as you predicted.
He even had the charges
against Shin Seo-ri dropped.
Biojei Entertainment?
After recruiting Shin Seo-ri,
an obscure actress, Mr. Cha is looking
to acquire her agency as well.
A late-night trip to the police station
and a sudden agency acquisition.
How amusing.
Se-gye keeps creating
more leverage for me all on his own.
Despite being family,
it seems he is not someone
you welcome into your home.
"He"?
Why do you keep asking about Choi Mun-do?
What, is he your type or something?
My "type"?
He may seem like a good man,
but don't be fooled by his appearance.
He's totally two-faced.
He's the type to smile
while stabbing you in the back.
Bull's-eye!
The Crown Prince must have been
born with a divine gift for archery.
Every shot he takes is a bull's-eye.
- It's a pheasant!
- Look, a pheasant!
Bull's-eye!
Did His Highness hit the pheasant?
That is not all he can hit.
He hunts any wild animal
that roams near the rear garden.
Wild animals?
Go away!
Run far away from the palace!
Go!
Do not ever come near here again.
Go!
Just because you act all high and mighty
doesn't mean you suddenly gain authority.
True charisma…
Comes from actual ability…
You know what I mean?
All right.
Seeing how you so openly speak ill of him,
it seems you two are on poor terms.
He will certainly never visit.
Excellent.
Cha Se-gye.
I give you this dog as a gift in return.
I do not have the money
to buy luxury goods,
and I have no letter for you,
so I shall entrust this dog to you.
Think of him as an extension of me,
and take good care of him.
Are you nuts? Why would I…
This dog will be more comfortable
in your home than in my windowless one.
Here.
I am counting on you, Cha Se-gye.
Hey!
Hey, Shin Seo-ri!
I'm allergic to dogs!
Hey!
Damn it.
Stop wagging your tail. You're shedding.
When was your last bath?
You stink.
You're so loud. Be quiet.
Quiet! Be quiet!
Anyway, you'll be out of here by tomorrow.
I have fur all over me.
God, it's so itchy.
So itchy. Damn it.
Seriously? All because
of that crazy woman.
Damn it.
Should I just kick it out now?
What?
You kicked the dog out?
A man who poisons everything he touches.
A thousand cuts and being torn limb
from limb would not suffice!
May you rot and die a painful death!
Damn it.
Even just imagining it makes me sick.
God only knows what she'd do to me
if I just dumped it somewhere.
I should get rid of it properly.
Living alone must get lonely.
It's a gift for you. Take it.
Thank you so much.
It's a bit too dirty for a gift.
Then consider it a mission.
Just get it out of my sight.
You're allergic to dog fur.
Why did you bring it home?
You can clearly tell it's a stray.
I didn't find it. Someone forced it on me.
But you're not one to be saddled
with something against your will.
- Who was it?
- You don't need to know.
Anyway, get rid of this dog today.
Or just raise it yourself.
Sir, I can't take the dog either.
My Min-ji is very picky.
Min-ji?
Is Min-ji your girlfriend?
Min-ji is the name of my cat.
You wouldn't know
because you don't care,
but I've been a cat owner for ten years.
Then find it a home.
Pets are popular these days, right?
Well, the chances of a full-grown,
mixed-breed dog like this
- getting adopted aren't good.
- So what should I do?
You want me to continue living with it?
You poor thing.
Of all people, he had to find you.
I arranged this gathering
to mark a new beginning.
As a family, we should clear the air.
What is there to eat?
This is practically an empty plate.
Such poor hospitality. My goodness.
Why, this is
the ultimate land-and-sea delicacy
where the vitality
freshly drawn from the ocean
is combined with the spirit of Mount Jiri
to achieve a sublime harmony of opposites.
DIVINE FLAVORS
It seems our Seo-ri
has a real knack for mukbang.
We should get you on a food show too.
"Our Seo-ri"? Since when?
Oh, right. Director Kim called yesterday.
You've been cast
in The Women's Kingdom Season 2.
Since it's a new season,
they said they needed a new face.
So I got you a spot, Seo-ri.
Ma'am. How could you make
such a decision
without even telling me?
Why would I need to consult you
for a minor supporting role?
Are you done?
That yellow part was the most delicious.
You eat it.
Then I will not refuse.
My, you have a healthy appetite.
So healthy.
Quality over quantity, I see.
I must succeed
so I can eat that for every meal.
NEW MESSAGE
Binge-watch Season 1 before the meeting.
While you're at it,
analyze the trends of other hit shows.
You're probably rusty
after your long break.
How could I even be rusty
when I am just getting started?
Seeing is believing, I suppose.
Hey! Seriously.
You're talking over Ji-hyo.
Please be quiet.
You have turned to stone
in that very spot.
Is it that entertaining?
There's nothing like a drama
to escape reality.
Your reality seems pretty tough too.
Maybe you should binge-watch it.
I saw her playing the queen.
Her acting was insufferably vulgar.
What do you know about acting?
Jeez.
Unit 203?
My, this "binge-watching" business
is truly captivating.
Once you start,
you forget to even eat or drink.
…PALACE INTRIGUES
ASSASSINATIONS…
Did you need to go this hard?
Besides binge-watching,
I was told to analyze "the trends."
Is there anything else?
No?
SANDGLASS
I thought I could have you this way.
- Jeez.
- You're my woman.
He really does not understand women.
He would scare away any woman.
Impotent?
How could I be impotent?
- "Impotent."
- What are you talking about?
- "Impotent!"
- How could I be impotent?
How? How could I be impotent?
As if being impotent was a big deal.
The eunuchs could not fool around,
but they lived large and lavishly.
LADIES OF THE PALACE
You went between the Queen
and the concubines
to intentionally sow discord?
It has been ages since I heard
such a gratifying thrashing.
It is simply music to my ears!
There you go.
She's actually laughing at that.
You are amazing!
My goodness.
Since that obstinate man even took in
Young Master Dog,
I shall take this chance
to properly thank him.
Hey, Unit 203. You know your hanja.
I happen to be quite gifted
in classical verse.
Wait. "One…" Gosh.
Who is this for anyway?
As my funds for luxury goods are lacking,
I intend to give this handwritten letter
to my fan as a gift in reverse.
A fan?
I thought you were unknown.
You have a fan now?
Of course. Se-gye is the only one
who worries about me.
That concludes the contract signing.
Once the remaining purchase balance
and Ms. Shin's signing bonus
are deposited,
you will officially become a subsidiary.
Let's get this project moving quickly.
The marketing team will send over
the ad proposal this week,
so give us your feedback right away.
Yes, of course.
Wait, Mr. Cha.
Will we be taking a commemorative photo?
- A photo?
- Yes.
Okay, say cheese. One, two, three.
Good work, everyone.
Well, you must be very busy.
Shin Seo-ri, what now?
You knew it was me just from my footsteps?
You have a serious problem.
What now? What do you want?
You have been sniffling since earlier.
Is your body not hardy enough
to avoid a measly little cold?
Thanks to a certain someone, I'm a mess.
I've had a runny nose
for over a week now.
Yes.
As it is, I owe you a great deal.
So I wanted to take this chance
to thank you properly.
Here, take it.
What's this? A legal notice?
A missive.
I mean, a handwritten letter.
- A letter?
- Yes.
For me?
It is a letter expressing my gratitude,
so be sure to read it alone tonight
before you go to sleep.
It really is a missive. Hanja and all.
"Jak."
Is she messing with me? Damn it.
How did you fare last night?
By a sunlit window,
my fondness for you grows.
If the traces of my visits in your dreams
were left as a fragrance,
the green garden before your door
would be full of butterflies.
What does this even mean?
Someone might mistake this
for a love letter.
Hey! You little son of a…
Is it because
you're from the streets?
You try to snatch
anything that drops to the floor.
You'll get a tummy ache, you punk.
Damn it. Gross.
"Amazing."
MY AMAZING FAN
"My…."
"My man"?
"My…"
Amazing…
"Fan."
"My man"?
This woman is in love with me.
My goodness.
What an incredible view.
You have a job now.
Why stay in that windowless room
any longer?
You have the deposit money now,
and the rent will be the same.
Not to mention, you'll have
the whole floor to yourself.
Absolutely.
A place like this is a total steal.
A total steal.
The view is quite refreshing.
This will do.
Even a yard to run around in.
A new residence
calls for a proper ritual.
It has been a while.
Regarding the first draft
of the Dynaestie ad,
her agency's response has been positive.
A few details need tweaking
before it goes to the ad agency,
but we should be able to see a preview
by the end of the month.
Okay.
Hey, Mr. Son.
Have you ever received a love letter?
A love letter?
I've been dumped plenty of times.
Wait, I got a note from a Secret Santa
in elementary school.
No, not like that.
I mean a handwritten letter.
One that the sender personally wrote.
Why do you ask?
Did someone profess their love for you?
No.
Of course not.
When did I say that?
I'm just curious.
And why are you so curious?
I need to know why you're asking
so I can answer properly.
Just because.
I was wondering what the intention is
when people give love letters.
There's no hidden intention.
They're just sharing how they feel.
Feelings.
Not everything in this world
has dark ulterior motives
and conspiracies lurking underneath.
This world
is far more filled with humanity
than you think, sir.
So what? Are you saying
I always have dark ulterior motives?
How long must I handle
these menial tasks myself?
My graceful hands are getting calluses.
Delicate jade hands are
the very foundation of refinement.
I need to start taking care of them.
Damn it.
This should be good enough
to bring a dog home.
SHRINE OF DOG
Hey, Unit 203.
I mean, Rooftop.
Why aren't you answering your phone? Huh?
- What is that?
- Jeez.
Your grandmother must be busy.
She had it delivered this time.
I brought it up so it wouldn't go bad.
SENDER: NAM OK-SUN
Seo-ri, you got the storyboard, right?
The concept is very avant-garde,
and it's got
that trendy Gen Z style.
It's kitschy and well-executed.
Mr. Cha has good taste.
The shooting schedule will be out soon,
so really focus on your skincare regimen.
There are so many great options now.
Glutathione shots, whitening injections.
What is there to take special care of?
I was born with flawless skin.
Put the same fire you came at me with
into your skincare.
And you're booked for Jane Asks,
the YouTube show, on the day of the shoot.
Play up the sob story about your hardships
as an unknown actress.
Pile on the sorrow and sentiment
to make it a tearjerker.
But I do not know anything
about this woman.
NAM OK-SUN
17 YEONSOLRO 8-GIL, SONGJIN
Sir, your cough has been bad lately.
Are you taking medicine?
Medicine for a little cough?
It's an issue
you could resolve quite quickly.
Sir, that's already been taken care of.
I posted online,
and the dog's owner called right away.
Really? That's great.
Secretary Kim should be returning it
to the owner now.
You can sleep peacefully starting tonight.
Already?
The sooner we send it off,
the sooner your suffering ends.
I hired cleaners to remove
every single trace.
So don't worry.
I'm so grateful.
You know me.
She's going to miss it.
THE CHAIL SONGJIN RESOR
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY
- Gosh. Chairman.
- Hey.
- Welcome, sir.
- Thank you for your hard work.
- Thank you.
- Hang in there.
Thank you for working so hard.
Oh, my.
Did Father seriously bring him here?
Is he going senile?
They say time waits for no one.
Even after all the trouble he caused,
he still dotes on his own blood.
Ladies, people can overhear you.
You should be more careful.
Mun-do, you seem pretty relaxed.
Even after seeing this,
you can still be calm and philosophical?
Come on, sis.
Have you ever seen Mun-do get angry?
Why would I be angry?
Especially when Uncle is so happy.
Gosh, I really can't figure him out.
Is he actually happy or just pretending?
We will now break ground
for The Chail Songjin Resort.
One, two, three!
CHAIL E&C, SONGJIN CITY…
Please join me in a warm round of applause
for Songjin City, Chail Resort,
and their bright futures.
Thank you for always looking out for us.
- It's my pleasure.
- Thank you.
- Thank you so much.
- Once this project is completed…
- Yes.
- …we'll have you back.
- Thank you.
- By any chance,
does that older brother of yours
visit your home often?
- Thank you.
- I look forward to it.
Oh, my.
- Thank you.
- Thank you so much.
- I have high hopes.
- Exactly.
So you go around meeting
aspiring starlets now?
I have A-list stars
lining up for me as it is.
What would I do with a starlet?
Right?
Mind your personal affairs carefully.
Don't throw away everything you've built.
Se-gye.
Don't waste your time meddling.
Just focus on smiling.
The only thing you've got going for you
is the handsome face
you got from your mom.
You know?
- We'll be counting on you.
- Of course.
- Congratulations, President Choi.
- Your first dig.
Thank you so much for coming.
What the hell?
Hey.
Watch your mouth
before I smash that jaw of yours.
SONGJIN CITY WELCOMES CHAIL RESORT!
SEORI'S NOODLE SHOP
OPEN
Well, this feels a bit…
Goodness me.
Seo-ri!
Oh my gosh, Seo-ri! You're here.
Come here, my sweet girl.
You're really here.
Let me look at you.
Why are you so skinny?
I can't believe my sweet girl is here.
If you'd called ahead,
I would've grilled some meat.
The neighborhood looks deserted.
Everything is closed down.
How is business?
They say they're building some resort.
Everyone just sold out
for a handful of cash.
Just forget it.
If they are offering you money,
you should sell too.
- This work must be hard.
- Gosh.
Why would I? I'm still perfectly healthy.
I'll work as long as my body lets me.
At my age, not working is like being dead.
This here
is where I'll lay my head to rest.
I watched you grow up here
and sent you to school.
No other place in the world
could give me this kind of peace.
I mean, money isn't everything.
It was just the two of them.
They never had any need
for worldly possessions.
Eat.
This is needless meddling.
Get a grip.
Just look out for yourself.
I have this interview
- coming up, you see.
- Okay.
I have to tell them
stories about my hardships
and the pain of being a nobody.
Stuff like that.
Are you going to be on TV?
What channel will it be on?
I'll have to record that, you know?
My childhood memories are a little hazy.
What? You…
Don't remember your childhood?
Well, you know,
a lot of people forget
their childhood as they grow up.
Come to think of it,
you have been talking strangely lately.
You were the same way
after that accident when you almost died.
Maybe you're sick again?
Accident?
Granny, we're back.
Smells so good in here.
Yeah.
What did Mun-do say
to make you punch him?
You'd better speak up
if you're hoping for any leniency.
His face just pissed me off,
so I punched him.
No matter how much you dislike him,
Mun-do is still our blood.
Even with this resort project,
there's a headache of a restaurant
standing in the way.
Yes. That's it. That restaurant.
Some old lady is refusing to budge.
Mun-do's been working
day and night to take care of it.
SEORI'S NOODLE SHOP
How long are you going
to keep drifting alone like that?
Are you never coming back?
Now I'm even seeing things.
What? What did you say?
It's nothing.
Granny, this is awful. Just awful.
You can't run a restaurant
if you can't season.
Even thugs live by a code.
Wasting precious food like this?
Were you born without parents!
Seo-ri.
Oh, right. She's…
That granddaughter
who's acting in Seoul.
Well, you're a feisty one, aren't you?
You should help Granny understand.
Nowadays, people hate
shameless holdouts like you.
Hey! You think money is everything,
you rotten bastards?
Seo-ri.
I'll take care of this.
Get inside, quick. Go on now.
Now, now. Hey, Granny.
She should know what's going on.
She needs a reality check
if she's still chasing
that pipe dream of acting,
given her family situation.
What did you just say, you bastard?
You bastard! What did you say?
Goodness me!
Damn it.
Pretty strong for an old lady.
You got a lot of money?
Enough to pay my hospital bills? Damn it.
Forget the money.
Let me just hold that hand.
Still so fair. Granny's still got it.
Hey.
It's like you're begging for a beating.
Damn it.
Boss!
- Boss!
- Boss!
SEORI'S RUSTIC PERIOD
- Listen up.
- Let go, damn it.
We will never leave this place.
And we have no intention
of bowing down to your boss.
Because that would be the same
as bowing down to the Japanese.
Boss? The Japanese?
What the hell are you talking about?
Rustic Period, Episode 18.
The climactic episode
where Kim Du-han takes down Jebi.
Since you all are acting just like
a bunch of street thugs,
I, like Kim Du-han, will punish you all!
So you're Kim Du-han now?
Then I'm Gu Ma-jeok.
Why, you little…
- Boss!
- Boss!
- Boss!
- Boss, you okay?
What are you doing? Get her! Damn it!
Seo-ri, he's got a knife!
Cha Se-gye, what are you
Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?
A cowardly sneak attack from behind?
Why you…
Oh, no.
Cha Se-gye.
Are you here because you were
worried about me again?
No…
Cha Se-gye.
Did you read my handwritten letter?
Yeah. I…
And the dog?
Is it eating and doing well?
The dog?
Yeah, it's fine.
I have been meaning to reach out to you.
Excellent timing.
I've found a proper home now, you see.
So I will no longer need to trouble you.
I shall take the dog back.
Well? Is that not great news?
We found its owner.
Turns out it wasn't a stray.
You found its owner?
Mr. Son posted about it online.
Its owner came by right away.
It's for the best.
When I think about how much sleep
I lost over that damn dog…
Thank you.
What?
I am very grateful to you.
I know I said it in the letter,
but I wanted to say it to you in person.
You don't need to be so direct.
I have met many people here,
but you have been the kindest to me,
and I am most thankful.
You must be the best fan in the world.
Fan?
What do you mean, a fan?
Do not be embarrassed.
I know you care about me as my fan.
I am well aware of that fact.
I'm a fan of who now?
How can you say something
so egregious so easily?
A fan?
What's all this about?
Grandpa, it's nothing.
Don't worry about it. You can just go.
You're this lady's fan?
- No
- Who is she? Why are you her fan?
Wealthy Man?
Miss, how do you know my Se-gye?
He is my one and only fan.
A very reassuring presence in my world.
A fan? As if. No, that's not it…
We just know each other professionally.
But she says otherwise!
What the hell
have you been doing out there?
It's really not like that.
She misunderstood after I took pity
on her and helped her out a few times.
You pity me?
I taught them a mighty lesson.
They will stay away now.
If they start lurking again,
let me know immediately.
What's the point of raising
a granddaughter
if not for times like these?
I almost forgot.
This is nothing special.
Just some embroidered slippers.
Who…
Are you?
Anyone home?
Look at this. I knew it.
So much for a deep cleaning.
Just sloppy at best.
Thank you.
I am very grateful to you.
I know I said it in the letter,
but I wanted to say it to you in person.
What does she take me for?
He is my one and only fan.
A very reassuring presence in my world.
Why did she have to go
and misunderstand like that?
It's making me feel bad.
You pity me?
Why did she have to make that face?
Now I'm worrying about her.
It's a nice view, even at night.
I see why your grandmother
refuses to leave.
What brings you here?
No matter how nice the view may be,
leaving your grandmother alone
in a place like this
feels wrong.
Closing the restaurant
and moving her somewhere nice
would give you peace of mind too.
Trying the carrot
since the stick didn't work?
No, that's not the main reason.
I came to cheer you on.
Cheer me on?
I know you and Se-gye
aren't anything yet.
But I think you two would make
a surprisingly good couple.
You came all this way,
this late at night, just to tell me that?
Ms. Shin.
You should be friends with Cha Se-gye.
Even better if you become his person.
And even better
if you decide to share a future.
If you do, then I can promise you
a real future.
For both you and your grandmother.
A life of comfort.
They do not
just share the same face.
They even share an affinity
for detestable antics.
Your Highness, I shall bring in the soup.
Taste it for poison.
How does it taste?
It is a nourishing soup
made with the beast
I just caught in the rear garden.
Your Highness, I deserve death.
Killing you now would be a waste,
when you will be of great use to me.
I hear you are the court lady
who serves as a companion
to my brother with the damaged eye.
Become my brother's lover.
Or even…
His most cherished…
Dog would suffice.
Oh my gosh, Seo-ri!
You're here.
Come here, my sweet girl.
You're really here.
Have I ever, even once,
been loved unconditionally?
Ms. Shin.
You should be friends with Cha Se-gye.
Usefulness. Bait. Worth.
A life where none of that matters.
Where my existence
does not need to be justified.
How wretched.
How can life be so…
This should be good enough
to bring a dog home.
SHRINE OF DOG
Why did I make this stupid thing?
Are you crying?
This is the best you could find
with the signing bonus I gave you?
Why a rooftop of all places?
What kind of building has no elevator?
And it's so dark.
Why are you here?
I see. You came to mock me
for believing wholeheartedly
that you were my fan, like a fool.
I'm sorry.
Your grandmother's restaurant…
I'll apologize on their behalf.
Don't worry too much.
No need.
From now on, I shall handle
my own business. Stay out of it.
How can I just stay out of it
when you're always lingering around?
Even now, you're sitting here looking
all forlorn but refusing to budge, so I…
- So I keep
- You.
Do not look at me like that.
- Like what?
- With that look in your eyes.
With eyes full of pity.
Do not look at me with pity.
- How am I looking at you
- When you look at me that way,
I keep drawing the wrong conclusion.
You are not my fan or on my side,
but you look at me like that.
It makes me think…
I am…
Someone you harbor affection for.
- Affection?
- Yes. Affection.
Strangers do not worry about you
and cheer you on.
It is not just me.
Anyone would think that.
Stop it.
What if you weren't mistaken?
What?
I see strictly in black and white.
Black or white.
Ally or enemy. Love it or hate it.
But you're
neither one nor the other.
You keep confusing me.
Then let me enlighten you.
See? You remain unfazed.
That settles it, does it not?
No.
That won't suffice.
- If we're checking, we check thoroughly.
- How?
Like this.
MY ROYAL NEMESIS
A fierce war of courtship begins.
It's a green light for me.
I've decided to pursue you.
Once your heart wavers,
you become weak.
In this life, I shall become
a wealthy Buddhist nun.
She's actually playing hard to get.
Most males will shower
the females with gifts.
"I surrender! I'll die without you!"
Desperately…
So stop being
so pathetically clingy. Jeez.
- Don't say no a second time. Call me.
- Have we met?
In this courtship battle,
will he emerge victorious?
Do you truly harbor affection for me?
Subtitle translation by Justin S. Kim