When the Phone Rings (2024) s01e04 Episode Script
Episode 4
WHEN THE PHONE RINGS
A GOOD FRIEND TO MEE
ALL CHARACTERS, LOCATIONS, ORGANIZATIONS, AND INCIDENTS
DEPICTED IN THIS DRAMA ARE ENTIRELY FICTITIOUS
Let's go.
[phone vibrating]
MEMORIAL GATE
Chief, I'm sorry. Excuse me for a moment.
[phone vibrating]
Yes, what is it?
[nurse] This is
Yongju Silver Care Hospital.
We can't locate Mr. Na Jin-cheol.
Your number was listed
as the emergency contact, so I called you.
Okay, I'll be right there.
[line disconnects]
[somber music playing]
What's the matter?
There seems to be an issue
with my father-in-law.
[press secretary] Oh no.
Then you should hurry.
Use my official vehicle.
They'll get you there quickly and safely.
[sighs]
[siren blaring]
-[Hee-joo coughs]
-Oh, dear.
Are you okay?
[breathing heavily]
-[Hee-joo sobbing]
-[sirens approaching]
What?
Why are they coming towards us?
-Did we do something wrong?
-No way!
We didn't do anything.
[gripping music playing]
Oh.
Hello. Thank you for your hard work.
You may leave now.
Pardon?
I'll come to the station
to file the report.
I'm sorry,
but what's your relationship with her?
We're family.
[officer 1] Excuse me?
She is…
my wife.
[slow music playing]
[Sa-eon] Stay here.
-My wife gave this case to me.
-He's Paik Sa-eon.
[officer 2 stammers]
I have a favor to ask.
Yes, please go ahead.
I'll visit as soon as I can
to file the report.
In the meantime, please keep
our personal information private.
Yes, of course.
-We'll ensure strict security.
-[officer 1 chuckles softly]
Thank you.
By the way…
-Don't do it. Don't.
-I also have a favor to ask.
I know this isn't the greatest situation,
but may I get a picture with you?
If you keep your promise,
I'll take a picture with you
at the station.
I see. Okay.
-Well, then.
-Okay, see you again.
Go safely.
[car starting]
Your father's nurse…
has my number.
Anyway, we should move him
to a different nursing home.
[sighs]
How could he go so far?
From now on,
you don't have to worry about your father.
I'll take care of it.
[Hee-joo sobbing]
[slow music playing]
You're making sounds.
[sniffles]
[scoffs]
Hong Hee-joo…
can make sounds.
[soft pop song playing]
[sniffles]
[scoffs]
[softly] You look so ugly right now.
[inhales deeply]
I'm not telling you to stop crying.
Cry as much as you want.
[sniffles]
[sobbing]
One tteokbokki set with gimbap,
fish cakes, and sundae with the entrails.
[exclaims] Can I have one?
-Ow!
-Come more often!
-Okay?
-[You-ri] I'm here!
I'm just happy to see you.
[You-ri exclaims]
You get prettier by the day.
I was always pretty.
-[Sang-woo] Are you just getting off work?
-[You-ri] My goodness.
[chuckles softly]
We don't have a show today.
What brings you here?
Well…
[You-ri] Oh my.
Don't tell me…
Did you come hoping to run into me?
[quirky music playing]
[You-ri] Come on.
We're visiting a site together
in a few days! [giggles]
[Sang-woo chuckles nervously]
[slurping]
-I was kidding.
-[music fades]
Do you live in Yeouido?
-Yeah, it's near the hospital.
-[You-ri] Mmm.
[gasps] Thank you.
[snickering]
[Sang-woo clears throat] Is it…
your birthday today?
-What?
-That looks like a feast.
This is one serving for me.
[Sang-woo] I see.
That day at the French restaurant,
it didn't even make a dent in my stomach.
Eat up.
[You-ri giggles]
[quirky music playing]
Hey.
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo.
It's her, isn't it?
Your secret crush.
[You-ri chuckles]
[Sang-woo exhales heavily]
[You-ri] I could just tell that day.
You said you've been through
unrequited love like a fan before.
Remember?
[Sang-woo clears throat]
[Sang-woo] Well…
I'm curious about something too.
Spokesperson Paik Sa-eon.
Why are you such a big fan of him?
[You-ri] Well…
Me?
I didn't like him at first.
Actually, I was so scared of him.
ON AIR
[Sa-eon] Are you saying there are
no standards to regulate microplastics?
Yes, a bill must be prepared
through National Assembly discussions.
That's all that I've prepared.
Then, what could be
realistic regulatory measures?
Excuse me?
MICROPLASTIC SWALLOWING THE OCEAN
Well…
[quirky music playing]
First, we should reduce plastic use
and use tumblers instead of disposables.
That would be more of an individual effort
and a recommendation.
What could be legally prohibited?
[You-ri] Well…
Well…
[Sa-eon] Anchor Na You-ri?
Aside from just raising the issue,
are there no concrete solutions prepared?
[You-ri] Well… I…
He's breaking in
a new recruit again. [chuckles]
She looks like she'll cry.
Thank you for your presentation.
[music ends]
[exhales heavily]
Come in by two o'clock from tomorrow.
[You-ri gasps]
You mean, two o'clock in the morning?
If you're to run it by me for review,
learn how to write it, and practice,
it's not that early.
You'll teach me yourself?
An anchor isn't a parrot
that simply reads off a script.
Plus, for the morning news, you should
come in by two to remove facial swelling.
[Sa-eon scoffs]
Look at your face now.
You look like a soggy steamed bun.
[mellow music playing]
[chuckles softly]
He was scary,
but he was a good colleague
who taught me a lot.
But then one day,
he quit his job
and got appointed as spokesperson.
He even got married.
-Now it's hard to see him once a year.
-Who did he marry?
[sniffles]
[amusing music playing]
[softly] Sa-eon's family
is a famous political family.
His grandfather's a bigwig who's done
everything except for the presidency.
His father's
a strong presidential candidate.
His relatives are
former or current ministers,
prosecutor generals, mayors, lawmakers…
Naturally, he married the daughter
of a very influential family.
The eldest daughter of Chairman Hong
of Chungwoon Daily News.
[Sa-eon sighs]
Did you just remember
what day it is today?
[Hee-joo] Why a hotel room?
Wash your face. And blow your nose too.
[line ringing]
[man] Yes, this is room service.
[sighs softly]
[blows nose]
[water running]
[sighs]
[Hee-joo] I need to get it together.
I have to stay focused from now on.
Should we talk now?
Sit down.
Take out your phone.
Because from now on,
I want us to have a conversation.
-[Hee-joo] Not an interrogation?
-It's not an interrogation.
As you know,
someone's been messing with us lately.
Your car, my office,
and even your father's nursing home
this time.
I haven't requested
a police investigation yet.
But if this continues,
I'll have no other choice.
[slow, tense music playing]
If you're the victim instead of me,
the police will start digging into you.
So before that happens,
tell me if you're hiding anything.
I guess there is something.
[scoffs]
I could keep pressuring you
until I force it out of you, but…
I won't.
I won't do that, Hee-joo.
We're not close enough to interfere
with each other's lives, right?
[knock on door]
Leave it at the door.
[soft music playing]
Eat this and rest.
Come down afterward. I'll go first.
You haven't settled from the shock yet.
You know you'll be very tense down there.
Don't overdo it. Just do as I say.
[door closes]
[solemn music playing]
[music ends]
[gulps]
Another glass.
[drink pouring]
-[door closes]
-Relax.
What?
[Ui-yong clears throat]
[foot tapping]
Ouch.
Do you have a plan?
[Ui-yong clears throat]
It shouldn't just be
another regular meal today, right?
Didn't the aides make a plan?
I don't need a grand plan for this.
A disobedient child?
Just beat him until he obeys.
Don't worry.
[Ui-yong sighs]
[elevator dings]
[suspenseful music playing]
[Ui-yong clears throat]
[Kyu-jin] You're here.
Why are you alone?
Where is she?
She's not feeling well.
Call her.
Did you not hear me?
Bring her here right now.
Let's eat.
I only have an hour to spare.
Didn't you have something to say to me?
[suspenseful music continues]
[gasps]
Appear on a show?
[Ui-yong] Yeah.
A special on presidential candidates.
Just anyone does it these days.
You know, cooking, dancing, and singing.
[scoffs]
Come when we're filming.
[knock on door]
[music ends]
Come and sit.
[sighs]
Others bring their sons, daughters-in-law,
and even their dogs and cats
to promote themselves.
But our family… [chuckles]
The only thing I can boast about
is my son.
Have you still not heard from your sister?
Don't bring that up again.
You know, I really think
Chairman Hong tricked me.
He never intended to give us
his eldest daughter in the first place.
Right? He's so skeptical.
He's scared I might lose the election.
That's why he sent his flawed daughter
as a stand-in.
[slow music playing]
What exactly is your purpose?
Even if you were a bargain,
you should be able to earn your keep.
Why can't you do anything?
[Kyu-jin] What are you doing?
It's rude. We're eating.
[music fades]
[Sa-eon] Bring it.
[mysterious music playing]
[camera shutter clicks]
Welcome.
There's a paparazzi
taking pictures of guests here.
"Spokesperson Paik Sa-eon meets with
his father, Paik Ui-yong, for dinner."
"Will he join the election campaign?"
Is that the headline you wanted?
I'll decide whether or not to participate
in your election.
Coercion, threats, subtle manipulation.
Don't even think of it.
[Ui-yong] You little punk.
[music fades]
[solemn music playing]
You arrogant brat.
You punk.
Do you know what will happen
if you keep acting like this?
The moment you step out of my shadow,
you could get crushed completely.
Do you really think I'm still in there?
What did you say?
Wait.
It's not you, is it?
What do you mean?
I know you'd do anything
to get me to surrender.
-So the thought crossed my mind.
-What are you talking about?
Make some damn sense!
I'll say one thing.
You're at the threshold
of being president, thanks to Grandfather.
The least you could do
is step over it on your own.
Don't whine
and ask me to push you.
What?
-Are you done?
-I am.
And I'll leave now.
[footsteps receding]
[Kyu-jin sighs] Was this your plan?
You ruined everything.
[breath trembling]
That punk started it!
Damn it.
That damned punk.
[sighs in exasperation]
[slow music playing]
I bet you…
want to divorce me.
You married me in place
of your missing sister and can't speak.
So you can't even defend yourself
when your in-laws spout nonsense.
[Sa-eon's breath trembling]
They're people
who can easily replace their children.
So whatever they say,
don't listen to them or take it to heart.
[music ends]
[phone vibrating]
PARK DO-JAE
Go inside.
[phone vibrating]
[car door closes]
Yes, go ahead.
The detective in charge
of the nursing home incident just called.
He said the blood analysis results
confirmed animal blood and fake teeth.
Animal?
[scoffs]
Okay.
Also, I have a personal request.
[breathing heavily]
[mysterious music playing]
[Jin-cheol whispering] Call…
Call him.
Sis.
-[static over radio]
-[kidnapper] No backing out in the middle.
You started this,
so you see it through.
Got it?
Sis! [laughing maniacally]
[Hee-joo] I can't…
do this anymore.
[dramatic music playing]
[breathing heavily]
Where are you going?
[music fades]
Is that trash?
Give it to me.
I'll take it out.
[phone ringing]
DIRECTOR HAN JIN-E
-[Jin-e] Hey, Hee-joo!
-[man] Hee-joo!
You can do this! Good luck! You got this!
[all] Good luck!
[Jin-e] Let's go!
-[all] To the president's office!
-[all cheering]
[Hee-joo] Thanks, everyone.
Don't mention it.
Dinner's on you if you pass!
Good luck! We love you!
[Sa-eon] I'll wish you luck too.
You'll pass.
[Hee-joo] If I get it, what then?
[slow music playing]
What do you mean?
We talked about this before.
If our families find out
I'm working beside you…
Hong Hee-joo. [sighs]
How much longer
will you live as the obedient child?
Aren't you sick of others
telling you what to do?
It's your chance to try
with your name on the line.
Chicken out and blow it
or give up over what others think.
Do whatever you want.
[Hee-joo] Okay.
Then you should start thinking about
how you're going to handle
the aftermath if I get the job.
[door opens]
[door closes]
[Sa-eon scoffs]
[music fades]
[sighs softly]
[phone vibrates]
PARK DO-JAE
[Do-jae] I looked into what you asked for.
WE MEET ANOTHER FAMILY MEMBER TODAY
[Sa-eon] Looks good. Let's go with this.
[sighs]
Our spokesperson has never been this late
to work before.
Is something wrong?
[Do-jae] He has matters to take care of,
so he'll be late.
[keyboard clacking]
-Hello.
-Hello.
[playful music playing]
-I have something to report.
-Me too.
It's urgent. I'll go first.
Mine's urgent too.
[Sa-eon] Mr. Park.
Yes, sir.
[music ends]
I'm the section chief.
I have something to discuss
regarding the voice modulation.
Did you find something?
If we analyze
the waveform and spectrogram,
I think we'll be able to determine
the pitch range, age, and gender.
We don't need the gender.
To be honest, I'm not curious
about that pervert's voice.
Just in case, it might be someone I know.
-That's why I want to unmask him.
-Okay.
I'll report it as soon as it's done.
Okay.
And this is regarding Ji Sang-woo.
A lot of his videos
are about unsolved cases
related to arson and bombs.
He seems to be very knowledgeable
about explosions and arson methods.
And currently,
he's appearing on HBC's Crime Report.
It's a mystery crime program.
"Crime Report"?
[exhales]
Okay.
-You're excused.
-Yes, sir.
[Young-woo] Sir.
It's the final interview list
for the sign language interpreters.
HONG HEE-JOO
The interviews will start soon.
Will you join?
[mellow music playing]
CANDIDATE ID
HONG HEE-JOO
[Sa-eon] It's your chance to try
with your name on the line.
Chicken out and blow it
or give up over what others think.
Do whatever you want.
[door opens]
Candidate 24, 25, and 26, please be ready.
2024 PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER INTERVIEW
You'll conduct a real briefing
for the final interview.
It'll be a practical exam.
In case of real-time interpretation,
quick thinking and sign language speed
are especially important.
I'll play an existing briefing video.
Candidate…
number 24, Hong Hee-joo,
we'll start with you.
PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE
[mellow music playing]
[Hee-joo] The 2020
Korea-Egypt summit briefing.
[Sa-eon] Korea and Egypt
have complementary industrial structures,
which offer great potential
for expanding trade and investment.
It is hoped that
the Korea-Egypt Trade and Economic
Partnership Joint Research MOU
will lead to an FTA
between the two countries.
Also, it was expressed that
there's hope for cooperative projects
to strengthen administrative capabilities
by sharing South Korea's
digital information expertise.
Furthermore, both countries agreed
to open a new chapter
of mutually beneficial cooperation
in key areas such as economic investment,
cultural heritage preservation
and management,
energy, advanced technologies,
and defense,
aiming to establish
a comprehensive partnership
between the two nations.
As emphasized, this will boost
our country's overall competitiveness.
[candidate] Thank you.
[phone vibrating]
[intriguing music playing]
Excuse me.
Yes?
I understand.
SPOKESPERSON BRIEFING
[captivating music playing]
[door opens]
[music fades]
Candidate number 24,
interpreter Hong Hee-joo.
I want you to answer
the questions I ask honestly.
Did you know the script in advance?
It wasn't simultaneous interpretation.
I noticed that you signed
before I even spoke sometimes.
How will you explain this?
I practiced to these videos.
If that's the case,
can we test you with a different video?
[interviewer] Yes.
[intriguing music playing]
[Sa-eon on TV] For a healthy society,
all citizens must unite
in caring for and educating children.
This is something that all members
of society must participate in.
Enough.
Next video.
[Sa-eon on TV] Our government
has consistently expressed its willingness
to engage in dialogue
to resolve the issue.
-[Sa-eon] Next.
-Diplomatic communication…
In the current situation
where business leaders
are facing difficulties
and everyone is trying their best
in their respective positions,
-we must answer what truly…
-[Sa-eon] Next.
…serves the people…
To prevent further harm
to the victim's reputation
through reports where even the facts
have not been verified,
-I ask that journalists exercise caution.
-[in English] Stop.
[music fades]
[in Korean] Did you practice
to all of these?
Yes.
It'll be the same
with any other video you play.
Why have you memorized all the videos?
[interviewer] I practiced a lot
with your videos.
They were chosen at random,
regardless of the year or content.
But your hands move at the same speed
and timing as my voice.
Is that a coincidence?
It's not just once or twice.
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo,
answer my question.
What did you just say?
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo!
I said I did it because I was crazy.
[snorts] Wow.
She was crazy.
[slow music playing]
[interviewer] I was obsessed
with your briefings, Mr. Paik.
[Hee-joo] I've dreamed of becoming
a sign language interpreter
for a government agency.
That became excessive…
This is the result of intense practicing?
[Hee-joo] How your upper lip
and upper teeth move
when you set your articulation points,
I studied that a lot in particular.
I can predict consonants
from the sounds your tongue makes
against the roof of your mouth.
So, as soon as I open my mouth…
No, wait.
Your hands move faster
when you predict it?
And you studied it that obsessively?
[Hee-joo] I mimicked,
practiced, and dug into it.
[slow music continues playing]
[flips page]
[Sa-eon] But…
can you not speak at all?
[music ends]
Personal disabilities
aren't disqualifying factors,
so she passed the document review.
And the job of an interpreter is to listen
and convey it with their hands, so…
If you get the job,
how will you communicate
with the spokesperson's team?
[phone vibrates]
2024 PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER INTERVIEW
[Young-woo] I don't know why,
but he's fixated.
It might take a while.
[Do-jae] The interview is running behind.
I hope you understand.
[interviewer] Can you use sign language?
[Hee-joo] If you can't, I'll teach you.
You need to learn so you can see
whether we interpreters are conveying
your message properly.
If the nuance is off,
you can correct it right away.
Sign language isn't difficult.
If you learn it, there won't be issues
communicating with me either.
You're right. That's a good idea.
We'll discuss that if you get the job.
Finally,
I want to test you on something.
I'll read a document
that you've never seen before,
on the spot.
Can you do it?
-[interviewer] Yes.
-[Sa-eon inhales deeply]
Then, let's begin.
[slow music playing]
Couple's Day…
is a national observance
established to remind us
of the importance of marital relationships
and to encourage
the building of harmonious families.
There's a couple here now.
[tense music playing]
The two have lived
without being able to open up
to each other.
Would things have been different…
if they had been more honest
and shown their true feelings?
If they try to make an effort now,
could they live
like any other ordinary couple?
Yet again today,
like how a mind game is played,
the couple merely tries to read
each other's minds.
The ironic thing is that
their behavior is surprisingly similar.
[music ends]
[dramatic music playing]
That's enough.
Let's stop here.
[door slams]
[exhales sharply]
[Hee-joo] I can assure you,
there's no one better than me.
I can tell by a person's expression.
I know what you're going to say
and what you're thinking.
I mimicked, practiced, and dug into it.
[scoffs]
Hong Hee-joo.
What are you…
[sighs wearily]
[slow music playing]
CANDIDATE ID
HONG HEE-JOO
[Hee-joo] I did a good job.
Well done.
[suspenseful music playing]
[music ends]
[phone vibrates]
[Hee-joo] Classy County?
We should move him
to a different nursing home.
[celebrity 1 on TV] Tell me about it.
[celebrity 2 on TV] He's an anchor.
[celebrity 3 on TV] You weren't a farmer?
That'll be hard in old age too.
So true.
[chuckles]
[Hee-joo] Ta-da.
Dried persimmons. Your favorite.
Yeah, they're good.
-[Hee-joo] They're from Sangju.
-[Jin-cheol] Yeah.
Dad, do you like it here?
Tastes good.
[Hee-joo chuckles softly]
[Hee-joo] It's much nicer
than before, right?
[Jin-cheol] Mmm.
Dad?
I'm sorry.
That will never happen again.
Don't worry, okay?
[Jin-cheol laughs]
Dad, who did--
"Don't worry, Father."
"No matter what happens,
I'll protect you and Hee-joo."
[mellow music playing]
[Jin-cheol chuckles]
He came here?
[groans]
Warm, right?
[clicks tongue]
So warm yet so cold.
So harsh yet so kind.
I can't figure him out.
I thought I knew him well…
-[Jin-cheol chuckles]
-…but I don't think I do at all.
Today's sign language interpreter
interview evaluation.
Is the press release ready?
It's being finalized.
By the way,
about interpreter Hong Hee-joo
who had an interview earlier,
were you pleased with her or not?
Why do you want to know that?
Excuse me?
Because…
Everyone found out
you turned the interview room upside down,
so we made a bet for fun…
[Sa-eon] A bet?
For fun?
We were about to, but we decided not to,
and we won't.
What? A bet? No way.
In this crucial decision
to select an interpreter
to be the voice of our office…
By the way, I like her.
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo,
who studied you so passionately.
So do I.
I like her.
Pardon?
[door opens]
[door closes]
HONG HEE-JOO
[mellow music playing]
-[bottle pops]
-[exclaims]
-Congratulations.
-Thank you.
[both chuckling]
[indistinct chatter]
[exhales]
[mellow music continues playing]
[Kyu-jin] You didn't eat anything.
Not eating as an invited guest
is considered disrespectful.
Eat it.
My son…
likes fish.
[Yeon-hui] Stop stuffing your face!
I didn't eat anything yet.
[Yeon-hui sighs]
I told you not to act pathetic.
[utensil clatters]
Learn from your sister.
[music ends]
[indistinct chatter]
[young Sa-eon] Let's switch.
Eat it.
[soft pop song playing]
[coughing]
Slow down.
What's your name?
"Hong."
"Hee."
"Joo."
HONG HEE-JOO
"Hong Hee-joo"?
When did you grow up so much?
[phone vibrates]
[Hee-joo] Thank you.
You changed my dad's nursing home.
He read it right away.
[phone vibrates]
HONG IN-A
[song fades]
[mysterious music playing]
What are you saying?
You want me to go in In-a's place
at the wedding tomorrow?
Have you ever imagined that, Hee-joo?
You and I come from humble beginnings,
and now we'll be
the future president's in-laws! [laughs]
-[door opens]
-[exclaims]
[gripping music playing]
[Sa-eon] Keep it safe.
If the real owner returns,
you might have to give it back.
[gripping music continues playing]
[music fades]
[chuckles softly]
[You-ri inhales sharply]
Start.
SA-EON
-[phone vibrating]
-[gasps]
What? Right now? At this hour?
-[phone vibrating]
-Why?
No, wait. Don't overthink it.
Just answer it. [clears throat]
[chuckles softly]
Hello? Sa-eon?
[Sa-eon] Hey, it's me.
I only have three minutes.
I'll make it quick.
Oh my.
By chance, did you just add water
to your cup noodles too?
No, I'm driving.
[You-ri] Oh, I see.
Ji Sang-woo I met the other day.
-He's doing a program with you, right?
-[You-ri] Yes.
Age 34. Yeonhui University College
of Medicine, class of 2010.
Director of Bliss Care Clinic.
Do you know anything else about him?
[scoffs]
Did you run a background check on him?
Do you know anything about him
that's not on the website?
I have two minutes left.
Well…
Right. He lives in Yeouido.
Near the HBC building.
-And.
-And?
And…
He grew up in an orphanage! [gasps]
An orphanage?
[You-ri] No! Never mind!
[suspenseful music playing]
NURI DREAM CENTER
Is it Nuri Dream Center?
Formerly known as Sinil Childcare Center?
How did you know?
But…
why do you want to know?
I'm out of time.
-Enjoy your noodles.
-[line disconnects]
[phone vibrating]
It seems you messed up again, 406.
[Hee-joo] You asked me before,
what do I get in return
if you get rid of Hong Hee-joo?
[in distorted voice]
I'll answer that question.
[tense music playing]
What is it?
Hong In-a.
In-a needs a place to return to.
You and your family wanted
Hong In-a from the start anyway.
Hong Hee-joo…
is just a stand-in puppet.
There.
So get rid of Hong Hee-joo.
Before Hong In-a returns
and complicates things,
take care of Hong Hee-joo--
-[Sa-eon] 406, you don't know anything.
-What?
I'll only say this once,
so listen carefully.
Before Hong In-a disappeared,
the last person she met with
before the wedding was me.
What?
[scoffs]
I guess you didn't dig that deep.
[mysterious music playing]
[Hee-joo] When you two met,
what did you talk about?
[Sa-eon] We made a deal.
[Hee-joo] What deal?
Because of that deal,
Hong In-a can never become
Paik Sa-eon's wife.
What now?
I think I just got rid of
your motive for blackmail.
[phone snaps shut]
[breathes heavily]
He met with In-a?
They made a deal? What deal?
[door lock beeping]
[door closes]
[music ends]
You're still up?
I thought you'd be sleeping
after the stressful day you had today.
I owe you an apology
for underestimating you.
You did great.
But the official results
haven't been announced yet.
So don't get ahead of yourself.
Also,
I'm attending the Chungwoon Daily News
anniversary event tomorrow.
[Hee-joo] Why all of a sudden?
Do you know or not
that my sister is back?
You look beautiful. [chuckles]
-[assistant] Hello.
-[Yeon-hui] Hi, so pretty.
You know what day it is today, right?
I want something special.
Hello.
[Yeon-hui] Hmm?
Look who it is.
Hello.
Ms. Lee.
Can you have two clients
in one room like this?
[Ms. Lee] I'm sorry.
Show her to the waiting room.
[Yeon-hui] We're a family.
You're always so busy.
I didn't think you'd make it to the event.
Just like last time,
I thought your husband
would be coming with a cute aide.
[scoffs]
[sighs] I want my hair
to be higher than hers.
Make my eyeliner wings longer too.
[clears throat]
CHUNGWOON DAILY NEWS
LEADING THE ERA, UNITING GENERATIONS
CHUNGWOON CULTURAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
[classical music playing]
CHUNGWOON
LEADING THE ERA, UNITING GENERATIONS
[camera shutters clicking]
[inaudible conversation]
CHUNGWOON DAILY NEWS
70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
[Il-gyeong laughing]
WITH THE PEOPLE
CHUNGWOON DAILY NEWS
-Congratulations.
-[Il-gyeong] Thank you.
[camera shutters clicking]
[male MC] We'll begin
the cutting of the cake.
[people applauding]
[classical music continues playing]
[mouthing]
Congratulations.
I wish you infinite success
and development in the future.
Thank you so much.
You're the busiest man in our country,
yet you made it.
You flatter me. [laughs]
We wouldn't miss
such a meaningful and joyous day.
[exhales softly]
But…
I don't see our spokesperson yet.
I wonder if the presidential office
is looking for a successor.
If he wants to join
the presidential campaign,
isn't it time he left his position?
Of course.
But as you know, he has so much ambition.
I'm not sure
if he'll give up his career and join me.
But still, I'll try harder
to convince him. [laughing]
[laughing]
How delightful. [laughing]
Yes, okay.
[elevator dings]
[Yeon-hui] Hee-joo.
Come with me.
[elevator dings]
[indistinct chatter]
What's this about your dad?
The hospital called and said he was moved.
Is that true?
[Hee-joo] Your son-in-law moved him.
[gasps]
He did?
Are you telling me
he found out about your dad?
[exhales frustratingly]
How could you let that happen?
What if the chairman finds out?
[sighs]
Aren't you going to ask why he was moved
or what happened to him?
[scoffs]
I don't care.
Anyway, now that he's been moved,
I don't need to pay anymore, right?
That's much better.
[door opens, closes]
[woman] Did you see Sa-eon?
He's in a whole different class now.
I know, right?
Is In-a not coming again today?
She hasn't shown her face in public
since she got married.
The president's daughter-in-law,
someone of great importance.
Such a big deal.
But In-a's sister is here.
-She's such an attention-seeker.
-I always found her a bit off.
She followed In-a around like a shadow.
So creepy.
-Another glass of wine?
-Shall we? Let's go.
[intriguing music playing]
[indistinct chatter]
[camera shutter clicks]
[women laughing]
[woman 1] Must be nice.
-[woman 2] Let's toast.
-[woman 3] Cheers.
[glasses clinking]
[intriguing music continues playing]
[sighs wearily]
[music ends]
[phone vibrating]
[phone continues vibrating]
CALLS
PAIK SA-EON
[mellow music playing]
PAIK SA-EON
[line ringing]
[line ringing]
[inhales deeply]
406, Hong Hee-joo.
He must not care about either.
[music fades]
[Sa-eon] Hello?
Speak.
Your fiancée disappeared
the day before the wedding,
and Hong Hee-joo stepped in instead.
How did you feel?
Well, I get it.
I'm sure it wasn't great.
[Sa-eon] It was similar.
[scoffs]
Right.
What use is she? Who else would take her?
She's gloomy.
She has no social skills.
She's just…
the supplementary pages
that came with Hong In-a.
[slow music playing]
Yeah.
That's what she is.
[chuckles softly]
Do you know what's funnier?
She always knew that too.
But she hesitated each time
even though she wanted to break free.
[indistinct chatter]
[in distorted voice]
She didn't have the courage.
She hated rich families
but was comforted by luxury.
She cowardly succumbed to money.
Hello?
Hee-joo…
isn't gloomy.
She's observing her surroundings.
She doesn't lack social skills.
In general, people are rude to her first.
-Also, she didn't succumb to money.
-[faint laughter]
She just…
loved her mother.
[gripping music playing]
There was a time
when I hated to eat or speak
with my mouth.
I was surrounded by greedy,
noisy, and bothersome people.
And she was the most quiet.
When I stared at her…
strangely, I could breathe easily.
What did you say?
Supplementary pages?
[scoffs]
If you don't know, listen carefully, 406.
Hee-joo isn't supplementary pages.
She's a brand-new language.
She's repeated the same hand movements
thousands of times to become who she is.
People don't know that.
-So don't talk about my wife like that.
-[sobbing]
[voice shaking] Then why did you treat her
like she was invisible?
You say you know her so well.
Then why did you do that?
Why did you tell her
not to think you were a couple?
[elevator dings]
[gripping music continues playing]
[music fades]
[scoffs]
[dramatic music playing]
WHEN THE PHONE RINGS
[officer 1] Okay, I'll take it now.
-One, two, three!
-[camera shutter clicks]
That was nice. One more.
Wait. Can I shake your hand?
-Of course.
-[officer 2 chuckles]
[officer 1 chuckles] Okay.
One, two, three!
[camera shutter clicks]
-[Sa-eon exhales softly]
-Thank you so much.
-[chuckles]
-[officer 1] It came out great.
My wife will love this.
-Sure.
-[officer 2 chuckles]
Then, the report…
That's right.
[groans softly]
I almost forgot.
Is your wife okay?
[chuckles nervously] Thanks to you.
Thank you for your concern.
We're relieved to hear it.
She was so shocked that day.
I thought she was having a panic attack.
A panic attack?
Yes.
She was like… [retching]
Her face got so pale.
She was screaming so loudly too.
We were on the road then,
but I pulled over and let her out.
It would've been bad
if we hadn't. [chuckles]
[Sa-eon] Wait.
What did you just say?
What?
Well…
-A panic…
-No, not that.
She screamed?
My wife did?
[gripping music playing]
What is it? What's wrong?
-What…
-[officer 1] Are you feeling sick?
[Hee-joo sobbing]
[Hee-joo] Let me out.
Let me out. [breathing heavily]
We're on the road right now.
It'll be okay if you just let me out.
It'll be okay, so let me out!
[screaming] Please, let me out!
[indistinct conversation]
[Hee-joo breathing heavily]
[gripping music continues playing]
[Hee-joo] I can't do this.
Just let me out.
[breathing heavily] Just let me out.
[engine revving]
Please, let me out!
[tires screech]
[music ends]
[dramatic song playing]
[scoffs]
[scoffs]
[scoffs]
WHEN THE PHONE RINGS
Why did you go that far?
[Hee-joo] Don't you have any?
Something you're hiding from me.
[scoffs]
This is great for Hee-joo!
She's going to the presidential office.
[Sa-eon] What's a good gift
to give someone who just got a job?
I look forward to working with you.
[Do-jae] Don't be surprised.
406 is…
-[Sa-eon] A woman?
-Paik Sa-eon!
[car accelerating]
[tires screech]
Subtitle translation by: Sue Mounce
A GOOD FRIEND TO MEE
ALL CHARACTERS, LOCATIONS, ORGANIZATIONS, AND INCIDENTS
DEPICTED IN THIS DRAMA ARE ENTIRELY FICTITIOUS
Let's go.
[phone vibrating]
MEMORIAL GATE
Chief, I'm sorry. Excuse me for a moment.
[phone vibrating]
Yes, what is it?
[nurse] This is
Yongju Silver Care Hospital.
We can't locate Mr. Na Jin-cheol.
Your number was listed
as the emergency contact, so I called you.
Okay, I'll be right there.
[line disconnects]
[somber music playing]
What's the matter?
There seems to be an issue
with my father-in-law.
[press secretary] Oh no.
Then you should hurry.
Use my official vehicle.
They'll get you there quickly and safely.
[sighs]
[siren blaring]
-[Hee-joo coughs]
-Oh, dear.
Are you okay?
[breathing heavily]
-[Hee-joo sobbing]
-[sirens approaching]
What?
Why are they coming towards us?
-Did we do something wrong?
-No way!
We didn't do anything.
[gripping music playing]
Oh.
Hello. Thank you for your hard work.
You may leave now.
Pardon?
I'll come to the station
to file the report.
I'm sorry,
but what's your relationship with her?
We're family.
[officer 1] Excuse me?
She is…
my wife.
[slow music playing]
[Sa-eon] Stay here.
-My wife gave this case to me.
-He's Paik Sa-eon.
[officer 2 stammers]
I have a favor to ask.
Yes, please go ahead.
I'll visit as soon as I can
to file the report.
In the meantime, please keep
our personal information private.
Yes, of course.
-We'll ensure strict security.
-[officer 1 chuckles softly]
Thank you.
By the way…
-Don't do it. Don't.
-I also have a favor to ask.
I know this isn't the greatest situation,
but may I get a picture with you?
If you keep your promise,
I'll take a picture with you
at the station.
I see. Okay.
-Well, then.
-Okay, see you again.
Go safely.
[car starting]
Your father's nurse…
has my number.
Anyway, we should move him
to a different nursing home.
[sighs]
How could he go so far?
From now on,
you don't have to worry about your father.
I'll take care of it.
[Hee-joo sobbing]
[slow music playing]
You're making sounds.
[sniffles]
[scoffs]
Hong Hee-joo…
can make sounds.
[soft pop song playing]
[sniffles]
[scoffs]
[softly] You look so ugly right now.
[inhales deeply]
I'm not telling you to stop crying.
Cry as much as you want.
[sniffles]
[sobbing]
One tteokbokki set with gimbap,
fish cakes, and sundae with the entrails.
[exclaims] Can I have one?
-Ow!
-Come more often!
-Okay?
-[You-ri] I'm here!
I'm just happy to see you.
[You-ri exclaims]
You get prettier by the day.
I was always pretty.
-[Sang-woo] Are you just getting off work?
-[You-ri] My goodness.
[chuckles softly]
We don't have a show today.
What brings you here?
Well…
[You-ri] Oh my.
Don't tell me…
Did you come hoping to run into me?
[quirky music playing]
[You-ri] Come on.
We're visiting a site together
in a few days! [giggles]
[Sang-woo chuckles nervously]
[slurping]
-I was kidding.
-[music fades]
Do you live in Yeouido?
-Yeah, it's near the hospital.
-[You-ri] Mmm.
[gasps] Thank you.
[snickering]
[Sang-woo clears throat] Is it…
your birthday today?
-What?
-That looks like a feast.
This is one serving for me.
[Sang-woo] I see.
That day at the French restaurant,
it didn't even make a dent in my stomach.
Eat up.
[You-ri giggles]
[quirky music playing]
Hey.
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo.
It's her, isn't it?
Your secret crush.
[You-ri chuckles]
[Sang-woo exhales heavily]
[You-ri] I could just tell that day.
You said you've been through
unrequited love like a fan before.
Remember?
[Sang-woo clears throat]
[Sang-woo] Well…
I'm curious about something too.
Spokesperson Paik Sa-eon.
Why are you such a big fan of him?
[You-ri] Well…
Me?
I didn't like him at first.
Actually, I was so scared of him.
ON AIR
[Sa-eon] Are you saying there are
no standards to regulate microplastics?
Yes, a bill must be prepared
through National Assembly discussions.
That's all that I've prepared.
Then, what could be
realistic regulatory measures?
Excuse me?
MICROPLASTIC SWALLOWING THE OCEAN
Well…
[quirky music playing]
First, we should reduce plastic use
and use tumblers instead of disposables.
That would be more of an individual effort
and a recommendation.
What could be legally prohibited?
[You-ri] Well…
Well…
[Sa-eon] Anchor Na You-ri?
Aside from just raising the issue,
are there no concrete solutions prepared?
[You-ri] Well… I…
He's breaking in
a new recruit again. [chuckles]
She looks like she'll cry.
Thank you for your presentation.
[music ends]
[exhales heavily]
Come in by two o'clock from tomorrow.
[You-ri gasps]
You mean, two o'clock in the morning?
If you're to run it by me for review,
learn how to write it, and practice,
it's not that early.
You'll teach me yourself?
An anchor isn't a parrot
that simply reads off a script.
Plus, for the morning news, you should
come in by two to remove facial swelling.
[Sa-eon scoffs]
Look at your face now.
You look like a soggy steamed bun.
[mellow music playing]
[chuckles softly]
He was scary,
but he was a good colleague
who taught me a lot.
But then one day,
he quit his job
and got appointed as spokesperson.
He even got married.
-Now it's hard to see him once a year.
-Who did he marry?
[sniffles]
[amusing music playing]
[softly] Sa-eon's family
is a famous political family.
His grandfather's a bigwig who's done
everything except for the presidency.
His father's
a strong presidential candidate.
His relatives are
former or current ministers,
prosecutor generals, mayors, lawmakers…
Naturally, he married the daughter
of a very influential family.
The eldest daughter of Chairman Hong
of Chungwoon Daily News.
[Sa-eon sighs]
Did you just remember
what day it is today?
[Hee-joo] Why a hotel room?
Wash your face. And blow your nose too.
[line ringing]
[man] Yes, this is room service.
[sighs softly]
[blows nose]
[water running]
[sighs]
[Hee-joo] I need to get it together.
I have to stay focused from now on.
Should we talk now?
Sit down.
Take out your phone.
Because from now on,
I want us to have a conversation.
-[Hee-joo] Not an interrogation?
-It's not an interrogation.
As you know,
someone's been messing with us lately.
Your car, my office,
and even your father's nursing home
this time.
I haven't requested
a police investigation yet.
But if this continues,
I'll have no other choice.
[slow, tense music playing]
If you're the victim instead of me,
the police will start digging into you.
So before that happens,
tell me if you're hiding anything.
I guess there is something.
[scoffs]
I could keep pressuring you
until I force it out of you, but…
I won't.
I won't do that, Hee-joo.
We're not close enough to interfere
with each other's lives, right?
[knock on door]
Leave it at the door.
[soft music playing]
Eat this and rest.
Come down afterward. I'll go first.
You haven't settled from the shock yet.
You know you'll be very tense down there.
Don't overdo it. Just do as I say.
[door closes]
[solemn music playing]
[music ends]
[gulps]
Another glass.
[drink pouring]
-[door closes]
-Relax.
What?
[Ui-yong clears throat]
[foot tapping]
Ouch.
Do you have a plan?
[Ui-yong clears throat]
It shouldn't just be
another regular meal today, right?
Didn't the aides make a plan?
I don't need a grand plan for this.
A disobedient child?
Just beat him until he obeys.
Don't worry.
[Ui-yong sighs]
[elevator dings]
[suspenseful music playing]
[Ui-yong clears throat]
[Kyu-jin] You're here.
Why are you alone?
Where is she?
She's not feeling well.
Call her.
Did you not hear me?
Bring her here right now.
Let's eat.
I only have an hour to spare.
Didn't you have something to say to me?
[suspenseful music continues]
[gasps]
Appear on a show?
[Ui-yong] Yeah.
A special on presidential candidates.
Just anyone does it these days.
You know, cooking, dancing, and singing.
[scoffs]
Come when we're filming.
[knock on door]
[music ends]
Come and sit.
[sighs]
Others bring their sons, daughters-in-law,
and even their dogs and cats
to promote themselves.
But our family… [chuckles]
The only thing I can boast about
is my son.
Have you still not heard from your sister?
Don't bring that up again.
You know, I really think
Chairman Hong tricked me.
He never intended to give us
his eldest daughter in the first place.
Right? He's so skeptical.
He's scared I might lose the election.
That's why he sent his flawed daughter
as a stand-in.
[slow music playing]
What exactly is your purpose?
Even if you were a bargain,
you should be able to earn your keep.
Why can't you do anything?
[Kyu-jin] What are you doing?
It's rude. We're eating.
[music fades]
[Sa-eon] Bring it.
[mysterious music playing]
[camera shutter clicks]
Welcome.
There's a paparazzi
taking pictures of guests here.
"Spokesperson Paik Sa-eon meets with
his father, Paik Ui-yong, for dinner."
"Will he join the election campaign?"
Is that the headline you wanted?
I'll decide whether or not to participate
in your election.
Coercion, threats, subtle manipulation.
Don't even think of it.
[Ui-yong] You little punk.
[music fades]
[solemn music playing]
You arrogant brat.
You punk.
Do you know what will happen
if you keep acting like this?
The moment you step out of my shadow,
you could get crushed completely.
Do you really think I'm still in there?
What did you say?
Wait.
It's not you, is it?
What do you mean?
I know you'd do anything
to get me to surrender.
-So the thought crossed my mind.
-What are you talking about?
Make some damn sense!
I'll say one thing.
You're at the threshold
of being president, thanks to Grandfather.
The least you could do
is step over it on your own.
Don't whine
and ask me to push you.
What?
-Are you done?
-I am.
And I'll leave now.
[footsteps receding]
[Kyu-jin sighs] Was this your plan?
You ruined everything.
[breath trembling]
That punk started it!
Damn it.
That damned punk.
[sighs in exasperation]
[slow music playing]
I bet you…
want to divorce me.
You married me in place
of your missing sister and can't speak.
So you can't even defend yourself
when your in-laws spout nonsense.
[Sa-eon's breath trembling]
They're people
who can easily replace their children.
So whatever they say,
don't listen to them or take it to heart.
[music ends]
[phone vibrating]
PARK DO-JAE
Go inside.
[phone vibrating]
[car door closes]
Yes, go ahead.
The detective in charge
of the nursing home incident just called.
He said the blood analysis results
confirmed animal blood and fake teeth.
Animal?
[scoffs]
Okay.
Also, I have a personal request.
[breathing heavily]
[mysterious music playing]
[Jin-cheol whispering] Call…
Call him.
Sis.
-[static over radio]
-[kidnapper] No backing out in the middle.
You started this,
so you see it through.
Got it?
Sis! [laughing maniacally]
[Hee-joo] I can't…
do this anymore.
[dramatic music playing]
[breathing heavily]
Where are you going?
[music fades]
Is that trash?
Give it to me.
I'll take it out.
[phone ringing]
DIRECTOR HAN JIN-E
-[Jin-e] Hey, Hee-joo!
-[man] Hee-joo!
You can do this! Good luck! You got this!
[all] Good luck!
[Jin-e] Let's go!
-[all] To the president's office!
-[all cheering]
[Hee-joo] Thanks, everyone.
Don't mention it.
Dinner's on you if you pass!
Good luck! We love you!
[Sa-eon] I'll wish you luck too.
You'll pass.
[Hee-joo] If I get it, what then?
[slow music playing]
What do you mean?
We talked about this before.
If our families find out
I'm working beside you…
Hong Hee-joo. [sighs]
How much longer
will you live as the obedient child?
Aren't you sick of others
telling you what to do?
It's your chance to try
with your name on the line.
Chicken out and blow it
or give up over what others think.
Do whatever you want.
[Hee-joo] Okay.
Then you should start thinking about
how you're going to handle
the aftermath if I get the job.
[door opens]
[door closes]
[Sa-eon scoffs]
[music fades]
[sighs softly]
[phone vibrates]
PARK DO-JAE
[Do-jae] I looked into what you asked for.
WE MEET ANOTHER FAMILY MEMBER TODAY
[Sa-eon] Looks good. Let's go with this.
[sighs]
Our spokesperson has never been this late
to work before.
Is something wrong?
[Do-jae] He has matters to take care of,
so he'll be late.
[keyboard clacking]
-Hello.
-Hello.
[playful music playing]
-I have something to report.
-Me too.
It's urgent. I'll go first.
Mine's urgent too.
[Sa-eon] Mr. Park.
Yes, sir.
[music ends]
I'm the section chief.
I have something to discuss
regarding the voice modulation.
Did you find something?
If we analyze
the waveform and spectrogram,
I think we'll be able to determine
the pitch range, age, and gender.
We don't need the gender.
To be honest, I'm not curious
about that pervert's voice.
Just in case, it might be someone I know.
-That's why I want to unmask him.
-Okay.
I'll report it as soon as it's done.
Okay.
And this is regarding Ji Sang-woo.
A lot of his videos
are about unsolved cases
related to arson and bombs.
He seems to be very knowledgeable
about explosions and arson methods.
And currently,
he's appearing on HBC's Crime Report.
It's a mystery crime program.
"Crime Report"?
[exhales]
Okay.
-You're excused.
-Yes, sir.
[Young-woo] Sir.
It's the final interview list
for the sign language interpreters.
HONG HEE-JOO
The interviews will start soon.
Will you join?
[mellow music playing]
CANDIDATE ID
HONG HEE-JOO
[Sa-eon] It's your chance to try
with your name on the line.
Chicken out and blow it
or give up over what others think.
Do whatever you want.
[door opens]
Candidate 24, 25, and 26, please be ready.
2024 PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER INTERVIEW
You'll conduct a real briefing
for the final interview.
It'll be a practical exam.
In case of real-time interpretation,
quick thinking and sign language speed
are especially important.
I'll play an existing briefing video.
Candidate…
number 24, Hong Hee-joo,
we'll start with you.
PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE
[mellow music playing]
[Hee-joo] The 2020
Korea-Egypt summit briefing.
[Sa-eon] Korea and Egypt
have complementary industrial structures,
which offer great potential
for expanding trade and investment.
It is hoped that
the Korea-Egypt Trade and Economic
Partnership Joint Research MOU
will lead to an FTA
between the two countries.
Also, it was expressed that
there's hope for cooperative projects
to strengthen administrative capabilities
by sharing South Korea's
digital information expertise.
Furthermore, both countries agreed
to open a new chapter
of mutually beneficial cooperation
in key areas such as economic investment,
cultural heritage preservation
and management,
energy, advanced technologies,
and defense,
aiming to establish
a comprehensive partnership
between the two nations.
As emphasized, this will boost
our country's overall competitiveness.
[candidate] Thank you.
[phone vibrating]
[intriguing music playing]
Excuse me.
Yes?
I understand.
SPOKESPERSON BRIEFING
[captivating music playing]
[door opens]
[music fades]
Candidate number 24,
interpreter Hong Hee-joo.
I want you to answer
the questions I ask honestly.
Did you know the script in advance?
It wasn't simultaneous interpretation.
I noticed that you signed
before I even spoke sometimes.
How will you explain this?
I practiced to these videos.
If that's the case,
can we test you with a different video?
[interviewer] Yes.
[intriguing music playing]
[Sa-eon on TV] For a healthy society,
all citizens must unite
in caring for and educating children.
This is something that all members
of society must participate in.
Enough.
Next video.
[Sa-eon on TV] Our government
has consistently expressed its willingness
to engage in dialogue
to resolve the issue.
-[Sa-eon] Next.
-Diplomatic communication…
In the current situation
where business leaders
are facing difficulties
and everyone is trying their best
in their respective positions,
-we must answer what truly…
-[Sa-eon] Next.
…serves the people…
To prevent further harm
to the victim's reputation
through reports where even the facts
have not been verified,
-I ask that journalists exercise caution.
-[in English] Stop.
[music fades]
[in Korean] Did you practice
to all of these?
Yes.
It'll be the same
with any other video you play.
Why have you memorized all the videos?
[interviewer] I practiced a lot
with your videos.
They were chosen at random,
regardless of the year or content.
But your hands move at the same speed
and timing as my voice.
Is that a coincidence?
It's not just once or twice.
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo,
answer my question.
What did you just say?
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo!
I said I did it because I was crazy.
[snorts] Wow.
She was crazy.
[slow music playing]
[interviewer] I was obsessed
with your briefings, Mr. Paik.
[Hee-joo] I've dreamed of becoming
a sign language interpreter
for a government agency.
That became excessive…
This is the result of intense practicing?
[Hee-joo] How your upper lip
and upper teeth move
when you set your articulation points,
I studied that a lot in particular.
I can predict consonants
from the sounds your tongue makes
against the roof of your mouth.
So, as soon as I open my mouth…
No, wait.
Your hands move faster
when you predict it?
And you studied it that obsessively?
[Hee-joo] I mimicked,
practiced, and dug into it.
[slow music continues playing]
[flips page]
[Sa-eon] But…
can you not speak at all?
[music ends]
Personal disabilities
aren't disqualifying factors,
so she passed the document review.
And the job of an interpreter is to listen
and convey it with their hands, so…
If you get the job,
how will you communicate
with the spokesperson's team?
[phone vibrates]
2024 PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER INTERVIEW
[Young-woo] I don't know why,
but he's fixated.
It might take a while.
[Do-jae] The interview is running behind.
I hope you understand.
[interviewer] Can you use sign language?
[Hee-joo] If you can't, I'll teach you.
You need to learn so you can see
whether we interpreters are conveying
your message properly.
If the nuance is off,
you can correct it right away.
Sign language isn't difficult.
If you learn it, there won't be issues
communicating with me either.
You're right. That's a good idea.
We'll discuss that if you get the job.
Finally,
I want to test you on something.
I'll read a document
that you've never seen before,
on the spot.
Can you do it?
-[interviewer] Yes.
-[Sa-eon inhales deeply]
Then, let's begin.
[slow music playing]
Couple's Day…
is a national observance
established to remind us
of the importance of marital relationships
and to encourage
the building of harmonious families.
There's a couple here now.
[tense music playing]
The two have lived
without being able to open up
to each other.
Would things have been different…
if they had been more honest
and shown their true feelings?
If they try to make an effort now,
could they live
like any other ordinary couple?
Yet again today,
like how a mind game is played,
the couple merely tries to read
each other's minds.
The ironic thing is that
their behavior is surprisingly similar.
[music ends]
[dramatic music playing]
That's enough.
Let's stop here.
[door slams]
[exhales sharply]
[Hee-joo] I can assure you,
there's no one better than me.
I can tell by a person's expression.
I know what you're going to say
and what you're thinking.
I mimicked, practiced, and dug into it.
[scoffs]
Hong Hee-joo.
What are you…
[sighs wearily]
[slow music playing]
CANDIDATE ID
HONG HEE-JOO
[Hee-joo] I did a good job.
Well done.
[suspenseful music playing]
[music ends]
[phone vibrates]
[Hee-joo] Classy County?
We should move him
to a different nursing home.
[celebrity 1 on TV] Tell me about it.
[celebrity 2 on TV] He's an anchor.
[celebrity 3 on TV] You weren't a farmer?
That'll be hard in old age too.
So true.
[chuckles]
[Hee-joo] Ta-da.
Dried persimmons. Your favorite.
Yeah, they're good.
-[Hee-joo] They're from Sangju.
-[Jin-cheol] Yeah.
Dad, do you like it here?
Tastes good.
[Hee-joo chuckles softly]
[Hee-joo] It's much nicer
than before, right?
[Jin-cheol] Mmm.
Dad?
I'm sorry.
That will never happen again.
Don't worry, okay?
[Jin-cheol laughs]
Dad, who did--
"Don't worry, Father."
"No matter what happens,
I'll protect you and Hee-joo."
[mellow music playing]
[Jin-cheol chuckles]
He came here?
[groans]
Warm, right?
[clicks tongue]
So warm yet so cold.
So harsh yet so kind.
I can't figure him out.
I thought I knew him well…
-[Jin-cheol chuckles]
-…but I don't think I do at all.
Today's sign language interpreter
interview evaluation.
Is the press release ready?
It's being finalized.
By the way,
about interpreter Hong Hee-joo
who had an interview earlier,
were you pleased with her or not?
Why do you want to know that?
Excuse me?
Because…
Everyone found out
you turned the interview room upside down,
so we made a bet for fun…
[Sa-eon] A bet?
For fun?
We were about to, but we decided not to,
and we won't.
What? A bet? No way.
In this crucial decision
to select an interpreter
to be the voice of our office…
By the way, I like her.
Interpreter Hong Hee-joo,
who studied you so passionately.
So do I.
I like her.
Pardon?
[door opens]
[door closes]
HONG HEE-JOO
[mellow music playing]
-[bottle pops]
-[exclaims]
-Congratulations.
-Thank you.
[both chuckling]
[indistinct chatter]
[exhales]
[mellow music continues playing]
[Kyu-jin] You didn't eat anything.
Not eating as an invited guest
is considered disrespectful.
Eat it.
My son…
likes fish.
[Yeon-hui] Stop stuffing your face!
I didn't eat anything yet.
[Yeon-hui sighs]
I told you not to act pathetic.
[utensil clatters]
Learn from your sister.
[music ends]
[indistinct chatter]
[young Sa-eon] Let's switch.
Eat it.
[soft pop song playing]
[coughing]
Slow down.
What's your name?
"Hong."
"Hee."
"Joo."
HONG HEE-JOO
"Hong Hee-joo"?
When did you grow up so much?
[phone vibrates]
[Hee-joo] Thank you.
You changed my dad's nursing home.
He read it right away.
[phone vibrates]
HONG IN-A
[song fades]
[mysterious music playing]
What are you saying?
You want me to go in In-a's place
at the wedding tomorrow?
Have you ever imagined that, Hee-joo?
You and I come from humble beginnings,
and now we'll be
the future president's in-laws! [laughs]
-[door opens]
-[exclaims]
[gripping music playing]
[Sa-eon] Keep it safe.
If the real owner returns,
you might have to give it back.
[gripping music continues playing]
[music fades]
[chuckles softly]
[You-ri inhales sharply]
Start.
SA-EON
-[phone vibrating]
-[gasps]
What? Right now? At this hour?
-[phone vibrating]
-Why?
No, wait. Don't overthink it.
Just answer it. [clears throat]
[chuckles softly]
Hello? Sa-eon?
[Sa-eon] Hey, it's me.
I only have three minutes.
I'll make it quick.
Oh my.
By chance, did you just add water
to your cup noodles too?
No, I'm driving.
[You-ri] Oh, I see.
Ji Sang-woo I met the other day.
-He's doing a program with you, right?
-[You-ri] Yes.
Age 34. Yeonhui University College
of Medicine, class of 2010.
Director of Bliss Care Clinic.
Do you know anything else about him?
[scoffs]
Did you run a background check on him?
Do you know anything about him
that's not on the website?
I have two minutes left.
Well…
Right. He lives in Yeouido.
Near the HBC building.
-And.
-And?
And…
He grew up in an orphanage! [gasps]
An orphanage?
[You-ri] No! Never mind!
[suspenseful music playing]
NURI DREAM CENTER
Is it Nuri Dream Center?
Formerly known as Sinil Childcare Center?
How did you know?
But…
why do you want to know?
I'm out of time.
-Enjoy your noodles.
-[line disconnects]
[phone vibrating]
It seems you messed up again, 406.
[Hee-joo] You asked me before,
what do I get in return
if you get rid of Hong Hee-joo?
[in distorted voice]
I'll answer that question.
[tense music playing]
What is it?
Hong In-a.
In-a needs a place to return to.
You and your family wanted
Hong In-a from the start anyway.
Hong Hee-joo…
is just a stand-in puppet.
There.
So get rid of Hong Hee-joo.
Before Hong In-a returns
and complicates things,
take care of Hong Hee-joo--
-[Sa-eon] 406, you don't know anything.
-What?
I'll only say this once,
so listen carefully.
Before Hong In-a disappeared,
the last person she met with
before the wedding was me.
What?
[scoffs]
I guess you didn't dig that deep.
[mysterious music playing]
[Hee-joo] When you two met,
what did you talk about?
[Sa-eon] We made a deal.
[Hee-joo] What deal?
Because of that deal,
Hong In-a can never become
Paik Sa-eon's wife.
What now?
I think I just got rid of
your motive for blackmail.
[phone snaps shut]
[breathes heavily]
He met with In-a?
They made a deal? What deal?
[door lock beeping]
[door closes]
[music ends]
You're still up?
I thought you'd be sleeping
after the stressful day you had today.
I owe you an apology
for underestimating you.
You did great.
But the official results
haven't been announced yet.
So don't get ahead of yourself.
Also,
I'm attending the Chungwoon Daily News
anniversary event tomorrow.
[Hee-joo] Why all of a sudden?
Do you know or not
that my sister is back?
You look beautiful. [chuckles]
-[assistant] Hello.
-[Yeon-hui] Hi, so pretty.
You know what day it is today, right?
I want something special.
Hello.
[Yeon-hui] Hmm?
Look who it is.
Hello.
Ms. Lee.
Can you have two clients
in one room like this?
[Ms. Lee] I'm sorry.
Show her to the waiting room.
[Yeon-hui] We're a family.
You're always so busy.
I didn't think you'd make it to the event.
Just like last time,
I thought your husband
would be coming with a cute aide.
[scoffs]
[sighs] I want my hair
to be higher than hers.
Make my eyeliner wings longer too.
[clears throat]
CHUNGWOON DAILY NEWS
LEADING THE ERA, UNITING GENERATIONS
CHUNGWOON CULTURAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
[classical music playing]
CHUNGWOON
LEADING THE ERA, UNITING GENERATIONS
[camera shutters clicking]
[inaudible conversation]
CHUNGWOON DAILY NEWS
70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
[Il-gyeong laughing]
WITH THE PEOPLE
CHUNGWOON DAILY NEWS
-Congratulations.
-[Il-gyeong] Thank you.
[camera shutters clicking]
[male MC] We'll begin
the cutting of the cake.
[people applauding]
[classical music continues playing]
[mouthing]
Congratulations.
I wish you infinite success
and development in the future.
Thank you so much.
You're the busiest man in our country,
yet you made it.
You flatter me. [laughs]
We wouldn't miss
such a meaningful and joyous day.
[exhales softly]
But…
I don't see our spokesperson yet.
I wonder if the presidential office
is looking for a successor.
If he wants to join
the presidential campaign,
isn't it time he left his position?
Of course.
But as you know, he has so much ambition.
I'm not sure
if he'll give up his career and join me.
But still, I'll try harder
to convince him. [laughing]
[laughing]
How delightful. [laughing]
Yes, okay.
[elevator dings]
[Yeon-hui] Hee-joo.
Come with me.
[elevator dings]
[indistinct chatter]
What's this about your dad?
The hospital called and said he was moved.
Is that true?
[Hee-joo] Your son-in-law moved him.
[gasps]
He did?
Are you telling me
he found out about your dad?
[exhales frustratingly]
How could you let that happen?
What if the chairman finds out?
[sighs]
Aren't you going to ask why he was moved
or what happened to him?
[scoffs]
I don't care.
Anyway, now that he's been moved,
I don't need to pay anymore, right?
That's much better.
[door opens, closes]
[woman] Did you see Sa-eon?
He's in a whole different class now.
I know, right?
Is In-a not coming again today?
She hasn't shown her face in public
since she got married.
The president's daughter-in-law,
someone of great importance.
Such a big deal.
But In-a's sister is here.
-She's such an attention-seeker.
-I always found her a bit off.
She followed In-a around like a shadow.
So creepy.
-Another glass of wine?
-Shall we? Let's go.
[intriguing music playing]
[indistinct chatter]
[camera shutter clicks]
[women laughing]
[woman 1] Must be nice.
-[woman 2] Let's toast.
-[woman 3] Cheers.
[glasses clinking]
[intriguing music continues playing]
[sighs wearily]
[music ends]
[phone vibrating]
[phone continues vibrating]
CALLS
PAIK SA-EON
[mellow music playing]
PAIK SA-EON
[line ringing]
[line ringing]
[inhales deeply]
406, Hong Hee-joo.
He must not care about either.
[music fades]
[Sa-eon] Hello?
Speak.
Your fiancée disappeared
the day before the wedding,
and Hong Hee-joo stepped in instead.
How did you feel?
Well, I get it.
I'm sure it wasn't great.
[Sa-eon] It was similar.
[scoffs]
Right.
What use is she? Who else would take her?
She's gloomy.
She has no social skills.
She's just…
the supplementary pages
that came with Hong In-a.
[slow music playing]
Yeah.
That's what she is.
[chuckles softly]
Do you know what's funnier?
She always knew that too.
But she hesitated each time
even though she wanted to break free.
[indistinct chatter]
[in distorted voice]
She didn't have the courage.
She hated rich families
but was comforted by luxury.
She cowardly succumbed to money.
Hello?
Hee-joo…
isn't gloomy.
She's observing her surroundings.
She doesn't lack social skills.
In general, people are rude to her first.
-Also, she didn't succumb to money.
-[faint laughter]
She just…
loved her mother.
[gripping music playing]
There was a time
when I hated to eat or speak
with my mouth.
I was surrounded by greedy,
noisy, and bothersome people.
And she was the most quiet.
When I stared at her…
strangely, I could breathe easily.
What did you say?
Supplementary pages?
[scoffs]
If you don't know, listen carefully, 406.
Hee-joo isn't supplementary pages.
She's a brand-new language.
She's repeated the same hand movements
thousands of times to become who she is.
People don't know that.
-So don't talk about my wife like that.
-[sobbing]
[voice shaking] Then why did you treat her
like she was invisible?
You say you know her so well.
Then why did you do that?
Why did you tell her
not to think you were a couple?
[elevator dings]
[gripping music continues playing]
[music fades]
[scoffs]
[dramatic music playing]
WHEN THE PHONE RINGS
[officer 1] Okay, I'll take it now.
-One, two, three!
-[camera shutter clicks]
That was nice. One more.
Wait. Can I shake your hand?
-Of course.
-[officer 2 chuckles]
[officer 1 chuckles] Okay.
One, two, three!
[camera shutter clicks]
-[Sa-eon exhales softly]
-Thank you so much.
-[chuckles]
-[officer 1] It came out great.
My wife will love this.
-Sure.
-[officer 2 chuckles]
Then, the report…
That's right.
[groans softly]
I almost forgot.
Is your wife okay?
[chuckles nervously] Thanks to you.
Thank you for your concern.
We're relieved to hear it.
She was so shocked that day.
I thought she was having a panic attack.
A panic attack?
Yes.
She was like… [retching]
Her face got so pale.
She was screaming so loudly too.
We were on the road then,
but I pulled over and let her out.
It would've been bad
if we hadn't. [chuckles]
[Sa-eon] Wait.
What did you just say?
What?
Well…
-A panic…
-No, not that.
She screamed?
My wife did?
[gripping music playing]
What is it? What's wrong?
-What…
-[officer 1] Are you feeling sick?
[Hee-joo sobbing]
[Hee-joo] Let me out.
Let me out. [breathing heavily]
We're on the road right now.
It'll be okay if you just let me out.
It'll be okay, so let me out!
[screaming] Please, let me out!
[indistinct conversation]
[Hee-joo breathing heavily]
[gripping music continues playing]
[Hee-joo] I can't do this.
Just let me out.
[breathing heavily] Just let me out.
[engine revving]
Please, let me out!
[tires screech]
[music ends]
[dramatic song playing]
[scoffs]
[scoffs]
[scoffs]
WHEN THE PHONE RINGS
Why did you go that far?
[Hee-joo] Don't you have any?
Something you're hiding from me.
[scoffs]
This is great for Hee-joo!
She's going to the presidential office.
[Sa-eon] What's a good gift
to give someone who just got a job?
I look forward to working with you.
[Do-jae] Don't be surprised.
406 is…
-[Sa-eon] A woman?
-Paik Sa-eon!
[car accelerating]
[tires screech]
Subtitle translation by: Sue Mounce