ALL CHARACTERS, ORGANIZATIONS, PLACES AND EVENTS ARE FICTIONAL
DONGIL NEWS, KOOKIL NEWS, DONGBUK DAILY, MINSUNG NEWS,
MINSUNG NEWS, DONGIL NEWS, KOOKIL NEWS, DONGBUK DAILY
MINSUNG NEWS, DONGBUK DAILY
Finding out the truth behind the attack
and stabilizing state affairs.
Park Mu-jin, the Acting President,
has two significant tasks to do.
However, Acting President Park Mu-jin has never been in an elected position.
Given this unprecedented national crisis,
many people are concerned about whether or not he can show
leadership in front of administrative officers
-and the National Assembly. -He has a week.
If he can run state affairs without any problems for the next week,
the headlines of every paper will change.
"Acting President Park Mu-jin..."
THE PRESIDENT PASSES AWAY
"...Becomes a Strong Candidate."
After that, the public will choose him
as the next candidate.
It seems like you chose him
to be your next political partner.
No, sir.
He's a good man.
But for me, I'm satisfied with serving the late President Yang Jin-man.
You also witnessed
how the world criticized his good deeds.
I'm going to choose the person who wins.
That's a relief.
President Park
never even ran for class president
when he was in school.
In those days.
Although he was a model student.
Do you know what that implies?
He doesn't have
any desire for power. He isn't suitable for politics.
He just didn't have the opportunity.
The opportunity to obtain power.
Do you think he'll stay the same even after witnessing
the nation move on his orders?
Have you ever seen someone let go of their power willingly?
Daddy!
You did great.
Daddy, I rode a spaceship.
"A spaceship"?
She's talking about the MRI machine.
How were her results? She's fine, right?
She counted to ten. She recognized us too.
Isn't that enough?
We have a doctor at the Blue House as well.
You don't need to worry, sir.
Thank you.
Let me see.
Gosh. It must've hurt so much.
Si-wan! I rode a spaceship.
Si-wan. I said, I rode a spaceship.
I'm serious.
Si-wan, Si-jin's back. You were worried about her.
Aren't you hungry?
Should I tell them to prepare your meal?
I'm sorry. He's a teenager.
You know how they are, right?
Yes. I heard they're more frightening than any dictator.
You don't have to be sorry.
They even say North Korea won't dare invade
because they're so frightening.
I'm terribly sorry, sir.
That joke was inappropriate at a time like this.
I'd like to apologize for my son's rudeness.
Is that true?
Why else do you think he suddenly got into a fistfight?
The kids couldn't have physical education because of the fine dust.
One of the kids said it was because the Minister of Environment
wasn't doing his job properly.
Well,
that kid is a teenager too.
It's hard for him, too.
Think about it.
He never imagined he'd be living in the Blue House,
which he only saw on the news.
PRESIDENT OF KOREA, YANG JIN-MAN
He probably doesn't know
how he'll face his friends again.
-What now? -I still need to teach him manners.
Puberty doesn't make him special.
Si-wan, we need to talk.
Si-Wan.
Did you put something on that?
A man's face is his life.
I'm sorry. This is all because of me.
We will have to live here
for the time being.
Someone once told me
that you don't get paid every month because you're good.
You get paid so you can smile while being criticized.
I get paid
with the people's tax money.
You don't need to worry about me.
It's harder for you.
That bothers me.
So Si-wan, I hope you will...
stay strong.
-Dad. -Yes?
What's the Wi-Fi password?
-I've tested all the dishes. -Thank you.
From now on, you may only eat after the inspector tests them,
whether it is at the Blue House or elsewhere.
Especially during times like this
when there's a threat of attack,
the inspection will be done more meticulously.
On that note, ma'am,
could you consult with us regarding your schedule?
We need to ensure your safety.
And since this is a sensitive time,
we need to consider the political side as well.
I'm afraid
I can't do that.
I'm a lawyer.
I have a duty to maintain attorney-client confidentiality.
For the next 60 days,
you are the First Lady.
Hello.
Is something wrong?
Is this how you feel as well?
For the past 15 years of our marriage, I've been free.
But she wants to tie me down now.
Two months will fly by.
After 60 days, we can go home.
Nothing will change.
Hello, sir!
Hello.
As you've requested,
Ms. Jeong Su-jeong will be working at the Presidential Secretariat.
She will be formally assigned
once her background check clears.
Let us go.
Your official schedule awaits, starting with the Chief of Staff meeting.
DAY 59: MAINTAINING STATUS QUO EPISODE 3
I'm Jo Yong-gu from Saenal News.
The attack on the National Assembly Building. Was it North Korea?
For now...
I'm Min Ju-hong from KBC. How likely is it that it was North Korea?
PRESS SECRETARY HONG SU-WON
-The NIS-- -I'm Im Jae-suk from OPS.
If it was not North Korea,
was ISIS the terrorist organization most likely responsible for it?
Give me the mic.
I'm Woo Sin-yeong from TBN.
I heard Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force...
dispatched the Aegis to the East Sea yesterday.
Ms. Woo, that was embargoed--
Here's my question.
I heard the reason why they dispatched the Aegis was...
because a North Korean submarine entered our territorial waters.
So it's true.
So was it North Korea?
-Is North Korea invading the South? -Is a war imminent?
-Why is the Blue House saying anything? -Well...
Why aren't you telling the people the truth?
We will take a short break.
-Please answer us. -What the hell?
Where is he going?
-What's all this? -Tell me about it. What was that--
I mean, didn't you write the script for the briefing?
Aren't you going to fix this?
Me?
I wrote it, but...
And I'm not ready for a situation like this.
None of us was ready for a situation like this.
No one in this Blue House was.
Well...
Sin-yeong, where are you going?
We already have the headlines.
"Acting President Park Mu-jin Gets off to a Shaky Start."
"The Incompetent Blue House Fails as a Control Tower."
I'll start by answering Ms. Woo's question.
Japan's Aegis has already retreated from the East Sea.
There was no provocation from North Korea, and a war did not break out.
Those are the facts I can confirm for now.
Are you saying North Korea wasn't behind the attack?
If not, who was it?
The NIS, DSSC,
and our military forces
are conducting thorough investigations and are open to all possibilities.
-Once there is a conclusion-- -Once there is,
will it be made known to the people and the press immediately?
Ms. Woo's performance assessment depends on her questions.
And my performance assessment depends on my silence.
I hope this answers your question.
Since the incident yesterday, all kinds of fake news and rumors
are spreading through social media.
If the government doesn't share the information transparently,
the embers of the fake news will never be put out.
As long as the press does not publish mere speculation,
it won't spread like wildfire.
The security of this nation and its people are on the line.
Your cooperation will be very much appreciated.
BLUE HOUSE
Thank you. I'm...
I'm the acting Press Secretary, Kim Nam-wook.
In total, 37 posts of agency heads fell vacant due to the bombing.
We will take immediate measures so the Vice-Ministers
can replace the Ministers.
There may be a second attack on key industries, railways,
ships, and aircrafts.
Inspections at the Immigration Office have been temporarily suspended.
You can't ground everyone across the board like that.
Making overseas investors anxious is the most amateur thing we could do.
I'm Gu Yong-wan, Chief of Economic Affairs.
Our most urgent priority is to suspend bank transactions.
The mass of people trying to withdraw their funds
has crippled the banks since morning.
We can't do that, sir.
If we suspend bank transactions, countless numbers of small businesses
will fall like dominoes in 48 hours.
If we don't, the banks will go under.
Then our economy will become brain-dead before we even try CPR.
But we must deal with the personnel matters first.
Security is our priority, first and foremost.
-This country's economy might fall apart. -Listen--
Everyone, please leave.
Let's call it a day.
It's all my fault.
I thought the Blue House secretarial staff could help President Park.
I overestimated
you people.
These matters will be approved
based on priority and order of importance.
Let's go.
"On the first day, at the Chief of Staff meeting,
Secretary Han yelled at everyone in anger."
This will be regarded as inaudible,
so it won't stay on the record.
It's a total mess.
Did he hit menopause?
There was nothing to be so furious about. How odd.
It's a message.
"Though the Acting President is clueless, don't think you can boss him around."
"I'm behind him."
"I'm the real owner of the Blue House."
CHIEF OF CIVIL AFFAIRS AN SE-YOUNG
Come on. Secretary Han wouldn't do that.
Why not?
The only person who has the ability to power through this state of emergency
is Secretary Han.
Ms. Min.
Illegal wiretapping will bring your entire family down.
We basically had only one agenda...
at the meeting today.
Anxiety.
"We can't trust Park Mu-jin's leadership."
You will visit the scene of the tragedy this afternoon.
The National Assembly Building?
Because the citizens can't trust you either, Mr. President.
Mr. President.
You need to show them.
That the Blue House hasn't fallen apart.
That the Republic of Korea is still doing well.
You need to do that for your own sake too.
What does that mean?
You were not elected President.
Without trust and support from the Blue House staff and the citizens,
you won't be able to do anything
from that seat for the next 60 days.
Trust and support.
Those are power and authority.
Did you just say "power"?
That has nothing to do with me.
I'm going to carry out my duty as a citizen of this country
and return to my school after 60 days as planned.
Seriously,
how did they evade the inspection of the National Assembly Building?
They must have disguised it as something no one was suspicious of.
The explosive demolition method
requires fuses planted all over the building to make it work.
So?
Once we find the fuses, we will know
how they planned this attack.
What happened to your face?
What? This? Gosh, this is embarrassing.
Korea really is the most-connected nation. There are LAN cables everywhere.
See? Look at this. How could I not trip and fall?
No one would have suspected a cable installation.
That's how they could avoid the inspection.
Are you sure?
We found something!
Yes, this is a detonating fuse.
What? Are you sure this is it?
Yes, I'm sure.
Essentially, the cord was filled with explosives.
-The cable installation company? -Yes.
I'm looking for the company that installed cables in the building.
Why do you need that?
The bombers
detonated the bombs using the building's Internet cable lines.
Was there a specific reason for hiring this company?
Perhaps someone recommended them?
There was an open bidding process.
There can only be one reason.
Competitive pricing.
SPEED NET MANAGER KIM YONG-HUN
First, we must find the company that installed the cables.
Please let the higher-ups know on my behalf.
Oh, contact the local police station and request assistance and cooperation.
SUITE 214
214, SPEED NET
SPEED NET
SUITE 214 SPEED NET
EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL UNIT
EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL
Get him!
My gosh!
-Stop right there! -What's going on?
Damn it! Move!
-Jeez, come on! -My gosh...
Let go!
-Shit. -Move, let us through.
Shit.
-Get down there. -Yes, sir.
What the...
What the heck are you doing?
-What is it? -What's going on?
-Why are they... -Hey!
-All right! It's time to wrap it up. -Why...
-You can't do this! -Move!
-Drag them out! -My gosh.
Sir.
No, don't.
You can't do this!
Please don't do this.
Why are you doing this to us--
COMMIES
COMMIES GO HOME
SEND ALL DEFECTORS BACK TO THE NORTH
What's this?
WHO BOMBED THE ASSEMBLY BUILDING?
There have been acts of violence in Mohyeon and Bogil.
What's worse, they brutally lynched
North Korean defectors.
Why, out of the blue? For what reason?
I think it's because of the fake news that's been spreading on social media.
"Fake news"?
"Some North Korean defectors arranged the explosion
at the National Assembly Building as per North Korea's order.
Most of them live and work in Mohyeon or Bogil."
Everyone, they have declared war on us!
"Rumor has it that Baekdu Gang of Bogil was involved in the tragic incident.
A VIP in North Korea paid Baekdu Gang to smuggle explosives into the country.
Here's how North Korea plans to invade the South.
They will collude with the defectors in Bogil and Mohyeon
as well as with the pro-North forces left in the government."
This administration is...
"They will attempt to amend the Constitution
to turn Korea into a socialist country."
So? Shall I keep reading?
Am I the only one
who doesn't understand?
There isn't enough evidence, and it sounds inaccurate.
Besides, the process of reasoning lacks logic.
Why do people believe this?
Because they're human.
When people are frightened,
their initial thought isn't to find the source.
Instead, they look for a visible enemy.
They need a scapegoat,
whom they can hate and resent all they want.
It's because that is a lot easier.
Oh, dear.
Nam-wook.
Yes, sir.
You should stay away from the briefing room for the time being.
-Pardon me? -Wouldn't you be uncomfortable?
Because you're from... Gosh.
There are so many negative articles regarding North Korean defectors.
All the reporters will grill you.
They'll be like, "Is it true?"
"What's your take on it?"
Just stay glued to your desk
and write well-crafted speeches.
No pressure though.
My gosh, thank you for being so considerate.
Yes, I know.
But I have to say, I'm curious too.
Could the bomber really be one of the North Korean defectors?
Well, I mean...
As they say, there's no smoke without fire.
-I'm sure there's something-- -What can there be?
The North Korean defectors
risked their lives to come here because they hate North Korea.
They committed this attack as per the North Korean government's order?
Does that make sense to you?
Aren't I right?
Should I answer as a defector or as an administrator at the Blue House?
Well, what I meant was...
Well...
I apologize. I should've been more thoughtful.
I'm sorry.
They say fists...
always move downward.
Those people attacked the North Korean defectors
because they're powerless, not because they're dangerous.
Yes. What about it?
Pardon?
Sir.
The assaults in Mohyeon and Bogil...
Have the police and prosecutors said how they plan to handle it?
Well...
Things seem to be unfolding in a strange direction.
INSPECTION OF SPECIAL CRIMES
COMMIES ARE THE CULPRITS
Dear ten million citizens of Seoul.
We are designating
the high-crime areas Mohyeon and Bogil,
where the violent incidents occurred, Special Crime Investigation Zones.
I hereby declare a war against crime.
-My gosh! -What's that?
Mayor Kang, who discriminates against North Korean defectors, must step down!
-Goodness. That's terrible. -Step down!
That's what Mayor Kang wanted.
Otherwise, he wouldn't have held the press conference there,
fully knowing that the residents in the area would protest.
A victim of violence that is threatening the community.
A fighter who fights against any crisis that comes his way.
-I bet he needed to craft that image. -Mayor Kang Sang-gu
must step down!
-He must step down! -Kang Sang-gu must step down!
-He must step down! -Step down!
Kang Sang-gu must step down!
-Step down at once! -See that?
Anyone who challenges governmental authority will not be forgiven,
regardless of who it is. No matter what kind of crisis befalls us,
I, Kang Sang-gu,
will never give in or give up.
However, national security, stability, order,
and a keeping distance from North Korea.
Aren't they our party's specialties?
Mayor Kang Sang-gu is the leading presidential candidate
for the majority party.
His supporters' votes are like bunnies in his pocket.
Now, he wants to hunt jackrabbits.
That's why he wants to target our supporters?
And to make that happen,
I will do my very best to ensure safety in Seoul.
Come to think of it, Mayor Kang isn't after
some jackrabbits.
He wants to steal our bunnies.
Unfortunately, our nation
doesn't have a President at the moment.
However, Seoul has Kang Sang-gu.
As long as I'm in office,
no attacks or acts of violence
will be tolerated whatsoever.
COMMIES ARE THE CULPRITS
GO HOME, DEFECTORS!
-Kang Sang-gu! -Kang Sang-gu!
We're from the Special Judicial Police.
HOUSEKEEPERS WANTED
These are counterfeit watches.
You know this is illegal, right?
Have these been cleared by Customs?
SPECIAL INSPECTION IN PROGRESS
-Heo Jin-ju. -Yes.
You'll have to come with us.
Pardon me?
-Escort her. -Why...
But...
Wait. Just a moment, sir.
-Please-- -Don't do this.
Where did they take Jin-ju?
FOR A CRIME-FREE SEOUL
CRIME CRACKDOWN IN BOGIL AND MOHYEON
The SJP?
The Special Judicial Police
belong to the City of Seoul.
Mayor Kang has full authority
over all their investigations, not the police or the Prosecutors' Office.
MAYOR KANG SANG-GU DECLARES WAR AGAINST CRIME
Mayor Kang wants to show the people that he is confident about maintaining
the city's safety and security.
He has no authority to mobilize the police or prosecutors,
but the Special Judicial Police are under the city's jurisdiction.
Then technically, what Mayor Kang is doing isn't illegal.
It's not illegal,
but it's morally wrong.
He's exploiting people's fears
to improve his approval rating.
And because of that, the North Korean defectors,
who are actually victims of the act of violence,
are now viewed as a criminal group.
I apologize.
I'm sure you're aware,
but this is a politically sensitive situation.
If people find out that you're affiliated with this,
it may cause trouble for President Park.
Then
you choose.
If you let me go in quietly,
people will think I'm just a lawyer.
But if you keep arguing with me here,
people will probably find out.
Then promise me
that you will do as I say at official events.
Yes, I promise.
Jin-ju.
It's me, Choe Gang-yeon.
Please... Help me.
Jin-ju.
Yes, that's probably where it came from. Crazy, right?
Call an ambulance, please.
Ms. Heo Jin-ju is ill.
She needs to see a doctor.
Sure. Then all these people here are ill, suffering from bingdu withdrawal.
Do you know what "bingdu" is? The North Korean word for opium?
A low-grade fever with chills accompanied by vomiting.
That piece of work is suffering from withdrawal.
No, Jin-ju isn't a user.
I can guarantee it as her lawyer.
Can you still guarantee it?
We confiscated all this bingdu in Bogil, where your client has her shop.
It can't serve as evidence to prove that she's a user.
So what, then? You'll continue to believe your client?
Sure, go ahead.
Honestly, how could you believe a commie, of all people?
Look!
Oh, that's... Isn't that you?
ACTING PRESIDENT'S WIFE
HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER CHOE GANG-YEON
Does my wife have to accompany me?
There are times when a picture is worth a thousand words.
Sense of responsibility, stability, and credibility.
Just one photo with Ms. Choe will convey
everything the people want from you.
Mr. President.
Oh, yes.
The Security Team strongly emphasized
that you must wear this.
Okay.
I heard North Korean defectors have been protesting all over the city
since Mayor Kang sent the Special Judicial Police
to Mohyeon and Bogil.
There are a lot of people on site,
so the entire Security Team has its guard up.
Well...
May I just go alone?
Why? Is there a specific reason?
My wife is an ordinary civilian with her own career.
I don't want to force her
to stand before the public just because she's my wife.
And most importantly,
she won't want to go.
I didn't think you'd come.
Especially dressed like that.
You see,
I'm not here as the Acting President's wife.
I'm here as a lawyer.
Revoke the Special Crime Investigation Zone designations
of Mohyeon and Bogil.
Mayor Kang is oppressing and discriminating against
many innocent North Korean defectors
for his political ambitions.
And my client is one of those defectors.
I can't have a proper meeting with my client now
because of where I am.
But you...
You can do it
because of where you are.
-It's the President. -Please step aside.
He's here.
This way, sir.
Agent Na, please.
Can we please behave more wisely and sensibly?
The cable technician
was our best lead on the bombing.
He died while fleeing in order to hide
whatever evidence he had.
How can we not report this to the Blue House?
What exactly is there to report?
We have no leads. We don't know his name.
He was a John Doe who wasn't even in the system.
What would we report?
Should we report that he had eyes and ears?
Na-gyeong.
The President died and the National Assembly Building blew up.
Whom we point to as the bombers
can start an international war or a civil war.
-Han-mo! -Find definitive evidence.
Then I'll definitely report it.
KIM JUN-O
Do we perhaps have another lead on the bombing?
What?
Could someone have known about it in advance,
or was there a tip?
That doesn't make any sense.
If we had known, we would've prevented it.
President Park is here.
Don't go off the rails and stir up trouble.
I want to keep working with you here in the field.
Thank you for your service.
I am Jeong Han-mo of the NIS Terrorism Task Force.
Do you have any leads on the bomber?
I'm afraid we don't yet.
I'm Han Na-gyeong, an NIS Terrorism Task Force analyst.
Thank you for your service.
Let me introduce you to our agents.
Sure.
This is analyst Kim Yong-wu.
Thank you for your service.
We're heading out.
This way.
EMERGENCY RELIEF SERVICE
This way, sir.
Sir?
What...
Ms. Jeong, you didn't see me.
But sir, you can't...
I feel
too shameless.
We're on the move.
President Park,
you must show them.
Show them that the Blue House is standing strong.
Show them
that Korea is still on its feet.
I am the Acting President
Park Mu-jin.
First of all, I send my deepest condolences
to those of you
who have lost their beloved family.
The National Assembly Building, which was the symbol of Korea's democracy
until just yesterday,
has become the site of a great tragedy today.
WHEN HOPE IS NO LONGER VISIBLE, HOPE
However, this is also the place
where the rescue squad continues to search for survivors,
and where policemen, firefighters,
and volunteers devote
their time and effort.
It's the reason we can find hope
even in the aftermath
of a tragic attack.
Over here!
Is it true that a North Korean defector
committed this attack?
Do you agree with Mayor Kang's policy of discrimination
against defectors?
What do you mean by that?
FIND OUT THE TRUTH
Please tell us what's going on!
No, wait...
Get down!
What... What is going on?
Get him on the ground!
-We're moving out. -Hurry!
Hurry. Get him out of here.
-Oh, no! -My gosh!
Oh, dear!
What the hell is going on?
What happened?
-It's not a weapon. -He wasn't attacking anyone.
My goodness.
WE ARE YOUR PEOPLE TOO!
My dear God.
"The Ill-Prepared Blue House Makes People Relive the Nightmare."
"The Unstable Acting President Increases Anxiety."
"Acting President Park
Flees the Scene, A Total Catastrophe."
Had he at least
kept his vest on, his security detail wouldn't have had to manhandle him
and throw him into the car,
and this humiliating photo wouldn't exist.
He felt shameless wearing a bulletproof vest
in front of countless people who lost their loved ones.
He was there to send them his condolences.
He was there
for important political reasons.
It was to show that Korea still has order,
but we failed.
Sincerity and heartfelt empathy?
Those humane feelings should've stayed in the calm and serene city of Sejong,
not here in the Blue House!
The man who caused a scene at the bombing site is
a North Korean defector.
What he was trying to pull out was a banner, not a weapon.
He must've wanted to tell you that his sick wife
had been arrested by the SJP.
I apologize for the team
overreacting.
If I had
kept my vest on,
they wouldn't have panicked.
This isn't on you, sir.
My team...
failed to protect the late President.
We just didn't want to make the same mistake twice.
About that defector, sir.
I heard that his wife is a client of the First Lady's.
Sir.
My client suffers from an illness called Cushing syndrome.
However, the officers holding her in custody think she's an addict
just because she's a North Korean defector.
The Special Crime Investigation Zones.
How can I revoke the designations?
This is unexpected.
I didn't think you'd actively get involved
in state affairs.
I feel pathetic.
There's no need to worry about the photos taken at the site.
They've agreed to take down the photos.
What I'm ashamed of
is that I had no idea just how terrified
the people actually were.
Not until
I left the site today as if running for my life.
I must be
at a safer place than I realized.
The Special Crime Investigation Zone and the Special Judicial Police?
Unless Mayor Kang changes his mind,
there's nothing we can do.
What if I persuaded him in person?
He won't sit down with you
if he knows what it's about.
Hold an inter-party meeting
and invite him as a party representative.
He wishes to have a more national image,
so I'm sure he'll come.
The Blue House must have its own supply of fresh air.
The fine dust level today is very high.
Welcome.
-Please have a seat. -Sure.
The majority party representative fell victim to the tragedy,
so I'll gladly step in anytime.
I should offer you my help, Mr. President.
Running a government isn't like getting a driver's license.
Sitting behind the wheel doesn't magically give you the necessary skills,
and we all know that.
Mayor Kang.
Would you revoke the Special Crime Investigation Zone designations
of Mohyeon and Bogil?
I'd also like the SJP to stop its unfairly targeted investigations.
Unfairly targeted?
In Seoul?
We're enforcing a rightful and legal section of the law
to protect the people of Seoul and their assets.
You're maligning that as unfairly targeted?
An accomplice
of the National Assembly Building Bombing might be among them.
Nothing has been confirmed.
It's what the ten million people of Seoul believe,
and that
is more important to me.
Mayor Kang...
I'm not staying for this.
If you wish to talk about Seoul,
come to City Hall, President Park.
Aren't the defectors also the people of Seoul
whom you should protect?
Why?
Do they seem like innocent Koreans
who came to the South seeking warmth and freedom?
The truth is they are nothing but runaways
who couldn't adapt to their system of state.
They risked
their lives
to become citizens of Seoul.
If we're talking about qualifications, who do you think is more qualified?
You and I
didn't do anything but be born in this country.
I'm sure that now that you're behind the wheel,
you want to honk and step on the gas.
But President Park,
an unskilled driver
should just hand over the wheel to someone with more experience.
You'll have nowhere to hide if you crash and burn.
Since it would be wrong to just sip tea at an inter-party meeting,
do you want a tip?
There are two ways to handle Mayor Kang.
Persuade or make him yield.
You failed to persuade him,
so that leaves you with just one remaining option.
You must be quite fond of President Park
to give him a tip on handling Mayor Kang.
It's up to me to protect my bunnies.
An executive order?
Delegate Yun Chan-gyeong suggested it?
Yes, is it impossible?
It's possible.
According to the 75th Amendment of the Constitution,
if you order a state of emergency,
you can dismiss the Special Judicial Police of Seoul
and revoke the Special Crime Investigation Zones of Mohyeon and Bogil.
-I'm relieved. -Only...
by an elected President though.
The 71st Amendment states
that an Acting President is entrusted with the authorities of a President
but only up to established orders.
You may only give orders to maintain the status quo.
An executive order is a new command,
one that disturbs the status quo.
Are you saying I don't have the authority then?
The Constitution doesn't specify
that an Acting President can't issue an executive order. But...
Please form an advisory panel to provide counsel.
Yes, sir.
It seems like you want to knock Mayor Kang out cold, Mr. President.
Is that a problem?
He is currently
the strongest presidential candidate of the majority party.
He shouldn't be completely put down like this.
It'll ruin his reputation.
I thought you were opposed to his policies.
You...
are an independent.
Please reconsider a political solution, sir.
I'll go after her.
If you insist on an executive order,
the opposing party will say you're abusing your power.
They'll suggest impeachment
and turn the presidential election around in their favor.
That's why Ms. Yun offered you that tip.
She wanted to ruin Mayor Kang's reputation and have you impeached.
Are you only against the executive order
because Mayor Kang is of the majority party?
You're taking sides. Are you allowed to do that?
This is the Blue House!
What's wrong with taking sides, Ms. Jeong?
-Because-- -To a lifer in the government like you,
a change in regime seems like a battle for power.
However, to a government employee who was specially recruited like me,
it's the succession of certain policies.
Decentralization of power has been President Yang's desire.
I agree that Mayor Kang isn't likable.
However, when it comes to decentralization of power,
he is the only politician who shares President Yang's vision.
PROMOTING DECENTRALIZATION OF POWER
Since the bombing,
I haven't been able to cry out loud and mourn
for my boss of 20 years.
Because I'm apologetic,
angry,
and infuriated by the injustice.
His ideas which were written on these pages...
I must
see them become a reality.
That is my way of mourning him.
Without the help of the presidential staff,
nothing will be easy, from Cabinet meetings
to challenging the opposing party.
Do you still want to try the executive order?
There's no other way.
Then
please remember this.
Once you issue the executive order
and subdue Mayor Kang,
you will have begun
the Park Mu-jin administration.
With all the prominent figures of the majority party gone,
people will naturally begin to look to you
as a strong presidential candidate.
I only wish to do what I must in this position now.
What you want doesn't matter.
People will have expectations on their own volition
and then quickly turn their backs to you.
The media, using verification as a justification, will question you.
Your political enemies will dig into you, your family, and friends
to find a weak spot they can exploit.
There's a chance
you'll never return to the life you once had.
The same goes for your family.
Would you be okay with that?
Why
are you telling me this?
Becoming Acting President wasn't your choice,
but this matter is.
Mr. President,
I'm calling about the advisory board regarding the executive order.
-Sir? -Ms. Jeong,
could I get back to you on that?
You're up late today.
Is something wrong?
My client Jin-ju...
She died
just now.
All she needed was a hormone shot to get better,
but I wasn't able to get that for her.
While crossing the Tumen River
and going through Kunming and Laos to get here,
she survived several near-death situations.
That's how she got to South Korea,
but this nation couldn't give her a simple shot
and caused her death.
I wasn't
able to do anything.
I'm her lawyer,
but I was worried that people might judge me,
and I was afraid
it would harm you somehow.
-Gang-yeon. -Why...
couldn't you do anything?
What were you afraid of?
We did absolutely nothing...
although we were in a position to.
What should we do, Secretary Han?
We need an emergency meeting with the police and prosecutors.
What is it?
North Korean defectors are enraged by Heo Jin-ju's death
and gathering on social media and in various communities.
They seem to be planning a huge memorial at Gwanghwamun this Saturday.
The problem is
that another organization is scheduled to gather there that day.
It can't be...
The extremists that assaulted the defectors in Bogil
are registered to gather there.
We can't let that happen. If they get into a conflict--
Then our worst fear will come true.
Where is President Park?
Excuse me.
Have you seen President Park?
He isn't answering his phone.
No, I haven't.
Mr. President.
I'm glad you're here, Ms. Jeong.
I've looked all over for you.
Here.
Ambassador's basic human rights,
active provision claim...
What does this mean?
Excuse me?
I was a science major, so social studies isn't my forte.
Did you study the Constitution because of...
the executive order?
I was a science major, and I don't know many Chinese characters.
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA
I thought the answer would be in the Constitution,
but it wasn't.
I read it over and over, but didn't get it.
So I've decided to go with your opinion.
The Acting President can only maintain preexisting rules.
That's what I intend to do.
I see you've made a decision.
I will issue...
an executive order.
The orders I have to go by as Acting President
are those that were effective on March 4 when my term started.
The discrimination policy
against North Korean defectors began the day after.
In other words,
within the order I am bound by as Acting President,
the discrimination policy didn't exist.
I issue an executive order
to carry out my duty to maintain preexisting orders.
-This is risky. -Please reconsider.
I'm...
I'm against this, sir.
I didn't think you'd disagree, Secretary Han.
I'm the Chief Presidential Secretary of the Blue House.
You will return to your school in 60 days.
Those of us here have to carry out the late President's legitimacy.
I'll make the appropriate choice to do so.
As long as I'm against this, no one at the Blue House
will side with you.
They're my people.
If you wish to issue an executive order,
you will have to fire me.
Wait, Secretary Han.
Make your choice, sir.
Secretary Cha,
call a Cabinet meeting.
The agenda...
is the issue of an executive order.
As of now,
Secretary Han is dismissed from his job.
Mr. President.
That's it...
for today's meeting.
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Don't forget this moment, sir.
This is how you use authority.
Do you still think you don't desire power and authority?
Did you just say "power"?
That has nothing to do with me.
You should've said something to me first.
Did you want to make a point to the secretarial staff
that President Park has the greatest authority
and to be loyal if they want to stick around?
You were right.
It's not that he never wanted power,
but he just didn't have the chance.
Then...
is President Park your choice
like you chose the late President Yang 30 years ago?
You will have to carry a heavy burden now.
You have to take care of the Blue House without me.
Is it true President Park is issuing an executive order?
-Isn't that abuse of authority? -Isn't that grounds for impeachment?
Stick to one thing. Either become competent
or step down.
Please answer.
Please answer!
Please answer.
-Please answer. -Wait a minute!
-Excuse me. -Wait!
-What's this? -Please answer!
What is going on?
Is it over already?
Wait!
What just happened? Where did he go?
Aren't you going to do the afternoon brief?
Why? Do I have to tell you if I'm asking a North Korean defector
or a Blue House adviser?
This is a work directive for Kim Nam-wook, a defector and Blue House director.
Are you telling me to stand in front of the cameras
and become the hope and dreams of devastated defectors?
Go ahead if that's what you want to do,
but "hope and dreams"...
What's what you say about Sejong the Great or Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
We don't have a Press Secretary,
and you're the best option
among us.
Right?
Do you need more reasons?
He loves compliments.
BLUE HOUSE
We will now begin the afternoon brief of March 6.
Acting President Park Mu-jin...
First, I'd like to relay my condolences
for the death of Ms. Heo Jin-ju
during the investigation by the Special Judicial Police in Bogil.
President Park...
President Park Mu-jin has issued an executive order to revoke
the designation of Mohyeon and Bogil
as Special Crime Investigation Zones on March 6.
SPECIAL CRIME INVESTIGATION ZONE
-Thank God it's over. -I know.
COMMIES GO HOME!
GO HOME!
Ms. Choe,
would you like to read The Gazette?
THE GAZETTE
The Special Judicial Police's investigations will be transferred
to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency,
and there will be
no prejudice or discrimination as per the principle of legality.
Is this Ms. Heo Jin-ju's husband?
This is Acting President Park Mu-jin.
Are you going to the residence?
FAMILY OF THE MISSING
We have to wrap this up. Here you go.
-Check the revised document. -Yes, sir.
Let's keep at it.
-Yes, sir. -Yes, sir.
What is it this time?
What is it, Na-gyeong?
Who is less unfortunate?
Is it the family of the deceased...
or...
KIM JUN-O
...the family of the missing?
There's a survivor here!
It's a survivor!
They said they found someone!
-There's a survivor? -They found someone? Oh, my!
You can't go any further!
There's a survivor!
Hang in there. We almost have you.
-On 3. 1, 2, 3. -Hurry!
Unfold it!
-Get it ready now! -Here he comes.
It's quite interesting.
Someone becomes a beacon of hope just for being alive.
And another gains the highest power in Korea
just for being alive.
Isn't it weird? No one survived the collapse.
Assemblyman Kim's location at the time is unexplainable.
Don't you know his political career will be over if this video gets out?
It's my decision. I'll take responsibility.
What's happening?
It's the Blue House.
It seems like the Blue House is the target this time.
Subtitle Translation by Liya Choi