Behind the Caste

Prologue

In a city that shines with the brilliance of life, there exist two worlds separated by a deep chasm: one where luxury and comfort are part of everyday life, and another where struggle and uncertainty haunt every step. Ki-taek's family, living in the shadow of social inequality, has struggled to achieve their dream—a better life.

For a long time, Ki-taek and his family have been trapped in a cycle of poverty that is so restrictive. By all means, they try to find opportunities that can lift them out of their slump. However, in the midst of their efforts, there is one thing that always lurks: the reality that the world they want can be a dangerous dream.

When opportunity knocks on their door, Ki-taek and his children take a big risk, entering the glamorous world of the wealthy Park family. In the elegance they witness, new hope emerges. But behind the laughter and false happiness, there is a dark secret that could destroy everything.

In their search for a better life, the Ki-taek family will discover that no path is without consequences. As tensions escalate, they must face the harsh reality that social inequality is not just a matter of status, but also a war against destiny. In the looming darkness, can they find the light of hope that will bring them back together? Or will they be trapped forever in the shadow of the divide that divides them?

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Chapter 1: The Beginning of a Different World Meeting

In a corner of a major South Korean city, a small apartment is wedged between imposing high-rise buildings, a place where sunlight rarely reaches. It is not an ideal place to live, more like a hole that houses humans who are forced to live there because they have no other choice. A semi-basement space that is more like a bunker, with small ground-level windows that reveal only the footsteps of pedestrians and the occasional sound of vehicles passing outside.

Inside the cramped space lived the Ki-taek family, consisting of father, mother, daughter Ki-jung, and son Ki-woo. Their apartment was a mess, filled with the things they had collected from the scraps of other people's lives. Papers were strewn across the small table in the living room, and stale food lay in the corner of the small kitchen that adjoined the living room. The walls were damp, the paint was peeling, and a musty smell never left the stuffy air.

Ki-woo and Ki-jung sit in the corner of the room, watching their phones try to catch a Wi-Fi signal from a nearby cafe. It’s their only way to connect to the outside world, though the stolen connection is weak and often disconnects. They’ve grown accustomed to living with scarcity, to intermittent signals, to water that’s often cut off, and to the food they get from odd jobs.

Ki-taek's family is a poor family trapped in a never-ending cycle of poverty. Ki-taek, the father, used to work as a taxi driver, but lost his job due to fierce competition and health problems that gnawed at his body as he aged. His wife, Chung-sook, is a former hammer thrower, but now she only works as a day laborer, cleaning luxury apartments in a different part of the city far from where they live. Ki-woo and Ki-jung, their two bright children, were forced to put aside their dreams of going to college because of the costs they could not afford. Despite this, the family still survives, living with the belief that one day things will change.

On the other side of the city, there is a family living in a different world. The Park family lives in a magnificent luxury house, standing on a hill far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The house is the work of a famous architect, with a minimalist yet elegant design, equipped with a large private garden and a sparkling swimming pool in the middle. Every corner of the house exudes perfection, from the kitchen equipped with modern appliances to the living room decorated with expensive paintings and elegant furniture. Large glass walls let natural light into every corner of the room, creating a calm and comfortable atmosphere.

The Park family consists of four members: Mr. Park, a successful executive at a technology company, his wife Yeon-kyo, a graceful housewife untouched by everyday problems, and their two children, Da-hye and Da-song. They are the perfect picture of the upper class, living in comfort and luxury that people like Ki-taek's family can hardly imagine.

Mr. Park is a serious man, with an undeniable professional reputation. He drives to work every day in his expensive car, has a personal driver driving him to the office, and spends time in grand conference rooms with important people. At home, he is a quiet figure, often lost in his own thoughts, while his family enjoys a carefree life.

Yeon-kyo, his wife, despite living in luxury, often feels lonely. She spends most of her time at home, taking care of the often unruly Da-song. She doesn't work, but she doesn't participate in social activities outside the home either, so she only focuses on her children and the large, empty house. Behind her gentleness, there is an emptiness that always haunts her, a gap between her and the world outside.

Da-hye, the Park family's daughter, is a bright, yet slightly rebellious teenager. Although she lives in a luxurious home and has everything she could want, she often feels dissatisfied with her life. She longs for something more than just material comfort, something she has yet to find in her perfect life.

In the midst of this contrasting life, an opportunity arises for the Ki-taek family. Ki-woo, the son, gets an offer from a friend to replace his position as a private tutor for Da-hye. His friend, Min-hyuk, who is going to continue his studies abroad, recommends Ki-woo as a substitute tutor because he knows Ki-woo is smart, even though he has never been to college. With Min-hyuk's recommendation and a fake certificate made with Ki-jung's help, Ki-woo steps into the luxurious home of the Park family, hoping to improve his family's fate.

Ki-woo stood in front of the gate of the Park family home for the first time. He was stunned by the grandeur of the house—so different from his narrow, dark world. The high iron fence and electric gate seemed to indicate a huge class difference between him and the family living in the house. When the gate opened automatically, Ki-woo felt like he had stepped into a strange world, a world he had only seen in movies or magazines.

As he enters, he is greeted by Yeon-kyo, who appears graceful and elegant, but a little awkward in social interactions. Their conversation is formal, and Ki-woo tries not to show his amazement at the opulence surrounding him. He restrains himself from looking too impressed, though inside he feels small and intimidated by the beauty of the house.

“What a beautiful house,” Ki-woo thought to himself, though he didn’t dare say it out loud.

The first tutoring session goes well. Da-hye, though initially indifferent, turns out to be a bright and easy-going student. Ki-woo quickly realizes that beneath her cold demeanor, Da-hye longs for attention and recognition. He sees in her eyes the same boredom that he often feels—despite their different circumstances, there is something in common between them. Social differences do not completely erase the human need for attention and meaning in life.

After the tutoring session ends, Ki-woo is invited to stay longer and talk with Yeon-kyo. In the conversation, he learns more about the Park family. Yeon-kyo talks about Da-song, their younger son, who has a strange and unruly personality. She suggests that Da-song might need an art therapist, and without hesitation, Ki-woo sees another opportunity for his family.

This is where the big idea comes in. He thinks of his sister, Ki-jung, who is talented in art. While not a real therapist, Ki-woo is sure that his sister can pretend to be one. A plan begins to form in his mind: one by one, he can bring his family members into this luxurious house, work for the Park family, and that way, they can all have a better life.

Coming home from the Park family home, Ki-woo felt euphoric. He felt that this was the opportunity they had been waiting for, an open door to escape the poverty that had trapped them. However, behind the happy feeling, there was something that was bothering him. A question that began to grow: Was this really the way? Could they really change their fate just by infiltrating the life of this wealthy family?

Inside the Ki-taek family's cramped apartment, life continues as usual. They still have to struggle to earn their daily bread. However, now there is a glimmer of hope that brightens their darkness, a hope that Ki-woo brought home from the Park family's luxurious home.

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Chapter 2: A Well-Laid Plan

The Ki-taek family gathers in the living room of their small apartment after Ki-woo returns from the Parks’ house. Ki-woo’s face is bright, full of enthusiasm, though he tries not to let it show too much. In his hand is an envelope containing the money he just received from his first tutoring session. It’s a large sum for a family that makes a living from odd jobs like theirs. In Ki-woo’s eyes, the envelope is more than just money; it’s a symbol of a chance to escape poverty.

“I have an idea,” Ki-woo said in a determined voice. His father, Ki-taek, who was smoking by the narrow window, turned slowly. Chung-sook, his mother, was busy in the small kitchen, while Ki-jung glanced at him from a small table in the corner.

“What are you thinking?” Ki-taek asked, his voice flat but his eyes showing a hint of curiosity.

Ki-woo explains everything. From his meeting with the Park family to his plan to introduce Ki-jung as an art therapist for Da-song, the Park family's notoriously unruly son. Ki-jung, who has a talent for art, may not have any formal qualifications as a therapist, but Ki-woo is confident that with a little acting, they can convince the Park family that Ki-jung is a professional. In this plan, Ki-jung will infiltrate as the second in command of their family to work for the wealthy family.

“Crazy,” Ki-jung muttered, though his smile couldn’t be hidden. “But it could work.”

Chung-sook, who was more practical in her thinking, looked at her children with a wary look. “Are you sure this won’t cause trouble? What will happen if they find out we cheated?”

Ki-woo nodded confidently. “They wouldn’t know. Rich people like them never really see people like us. They only see what they want to see.”

Ki-woo’s words reflect a deep awareness of the social divide that separates his family from the Parks. To the Parks, Ki-taek and his family are mere tools—people on the fringes of their lives, whose existence will go unnoticed as long as they serve them well. The Parks, like many other wealthy people, have never thought about the realities of the lives of the people who work for them.

With great enthusiasm, Ki-woo and Ki-jung begin to plan carefully. They discuss how to introduce Ki-jung as an art therapist. Ki-taek's family, though poor, is clever and creative. They know how to exploit loopholes in the existing system. Ki-jung begins to prepare by doing a quick internet research on art therapy, noting down some terms that might sound convincing to the Park family. Ki-taek, who used to work as a driver and understands the behavior of rich people, gives tips on how to speak and act in front of them.

Ki-woo, as the 'successful older brother', would recommend Ki-jung to the Park family, capitalizing on the trust that had begun to grow after her first tutoring session. They planned everything carefully, from how Ki-jung would dress to how she would introduce herself. Ki-jung even printed fake business cards to strengthen her image as a professional.

On the appointed day, Ki-jung arrived at the Park family home. This time, she stood in front of the luxurious gate, feeling the same uneasiness as Ki-woo when he first entered. However, unlike Ki-woo who tried to hold back his amazement, Ki-jung was bolder and more confident. She walked gracefully, trying to blend in with the atmosphere of the luxurious house as if she were from the same world. As an artist, Ki-jung had a sense of aesthetics and she knew how to present herself.

When he enters the house, Yeon-kyo, the Park family matriarch, greets him warmly, just as she did when she first met Ki-woo. Yeon-kyo’s eyes light up as she talks about Da-song and his behavioral issues. She has high hopes that Ki-jung will be able to help her art-obsessed but unruly son.

Ki-jung listens calmly, showing professionalism and sympathy. He plays the role of therapist perfectly, explaining that art is a great medium for children to express their emotions. With refined language and some technical terms taken from the internet, Ki-jung manages to convince Yeon-kyo that he is the right person for Da-song. Yeon-kyo, who doesn’t really know much about art therapy, only sees that Ki-jung seems competent and graceful—two things she values.

In the living room, Ki-jung begins her first session with Da-song. The boy, who is usually hyperactive and difficult to control, seems interested in the art supplies Ki-jung brought. He begins to draw, though the drawings are strange and abstract, reflecting the chaos in his mind. While Da-song is absorbed in his pencil and canvas, Ki-jung watches closely, praising each stroke the boy makes.

Yeon-kyo, who was watching from a distance, smiled with satisfaction. To her, the session seemed like a great success, and she became more convinced that Ki-jung was an extraordinary professional. Within a few days, Ki-jung had become a part of the Park family's life, and he began to earn Yeon-kyo's complete trust.

However, the Ki-taek family's plan doesn't stop there. They realize that in order to truly capitalize on this opportunity, they have to involve the entire family. And the next step in their plan is to replace the Park family's driver.

Mr. Park is a perfectionist, especially when it comes to his work and how his family is served. His driver is a middle-aged man who has been working for years and is very trusted. But to Ki-taek and his family, everyone is replaceable. They know that in order to penetrate the Park family's lives, they must get the driver fired.

Ki-jung, with his ingenuity, devised a scenario to get rid of the driver. One night when he returned from the Parks' house, he left a pair of women's underwear in the back seat of the family car. It was a small but calculated act, one that he knew would cause a scandal. Sure enough, the next day, when the driver drove Mr. Park to work, Mr. Park found the item and was furious. To Mr. Park, this was proof that his driver had used the family car for an inappropriate private meeting. Although the driver tried to explain, suspicion had already damaged his reputation.

A few days later, the driver was fired in a gentle but firm manner. The Park family, especially Mr. Park, did not want to be involved in a scandal, so they quickly hushed up the matter without saying much. And this is where Ki-taek comes in, taking the driver's place.

With Ki-woo's help, Ki-taek is introduced as an experienced and trustworthy driver. Ki-woo praises his father as someone who has extensive driving experience and is very professional. Mr. Park, although still upset about the previous incident, finally accepts the recommendation in the hope that there will be no more problems. Ki-taek begins working as the Park family's driver, and slowly, the entire Ki-taek family infiltrates the wealthy family's life.

For Ki-taek, working as a driver for the Park family is a stark reminder of the contrast between his own life of poverty and his employer's extravagant life. Every day, he drives an expensive car, through city streets he knows well from his past as a taxi driver. But now he is more than just a driver; he is part of his family's grand plan to improve their lot.

Every time Ki-taek sees Mr. Park sitting in the back seat, with his phone or laptop, he feels a sharp contrast. On one hand, he is amazed by Mr. Park's success and his comfortable life. However, on the other hand, there is a feeling of envy and a little hatred that slowly grows in his heart. Mr. Park, for Ki-taek, is a symbol of an unfair system, where the rich can continue to live in luxury while people like him have to work hard just to survive.

Behind the polite smile and perfect service, Ki-taek hides his increasingly burning feelings. For him, this plan is not just about getting a job or money, but about a subtle revenge against the social gap that is so obvious between him and his employer.

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Chapter 3: Uncovering the Luxurious Layers

A few weeks have passed since the Ki-taek family started working at the Park family home. Ki-woo as a private tutor for Da-hye, Ki-jung as an art therapist for Da-song, and Ki-taek as the family driver. Now, only one other member of the Ki-taek family has yet to fully enter the luxurious home: Chung-sook, their mother.

The plan to get Chung-sook into the Park family home is not easy, because they have to get rid of the old housekeeper, Moon-gwang, who has worked in the house for years. Moon-gwang is someone who is very trusted by the Park family. He knows every corner of the house, every habit of the family, and he has a very close relationship with Yeon-kyo, Mr. Park's wife. But the Ki-taek family knows that no position is completely safe, even for someone who has worked for years. They only need to find a weakness, and they will replace Moon-gwang with Chung-sook.

Behind every step the Ki-taek family takes, there is deep thought and strategy. They don't just want to work for the Park family; they want to control the family's life from within. Every step is designed to erode the foundation the Park family has built over the years without them even realizing it.

One night, Ki-jung notices that Moon-gwang has a pretty bad cough. At first, she doesn't pay much attention to it, but then a wicked idea pops into her head. She starts planning a way to get rid of Moon-gwang, and the cough is the perfect starting point. In the days that follow, Ki-jung purposely brings up the topic of health in front of Yeon-kyo, talking about how easily viruses or bacteria can spread in a closed environment like a house.

“Especially with new diseases that are emerging now,” he said with a hint of mock concern, “a person could be infected without knowing it. A mild cough could be an early symptom of something more serious.”

Yeon-kyo, who is very concerned about her family’s health, especially Da-song who has fragile mental health, begins to feel anxious. When she later hears Moon-gwang cough again, her worries grow even more. Ki-jung, with great skill, adds fuel to Yeon-kyo’s fears, suggesting that Moon-gwang may not be well and could infect the rest of the family. Without much fuss, Yeon-kyo finally decides to fire Moon-gwang and recommend someone new who is ‘safer’. That’s when Ki-woo, gently, introduces his mother, Chung-sook, as the perfect housekeeper.

“She’s used to taking care of a big house,” Ki-woo explained confidently. “And she’s very particular about cleanliness and hygiene. You’ll feel at ease with her.”

Within a few days, Chung-sook began working at the Park family home. Moon-gwang left quietly, without much fuss, leaving only a little worry in Yeon-kyo's heart, who was still haunted by feelings of guilt. However, the Park family never saw or thought about the consequences of their actions, because their world of luxury had made them accustomed to treating others as tools. For them, life went on without anything really changing—at least on the surface.

But for the Ki-taek family, this is a huge victory. Their entire family now works in the Park household. They don’t just get jobs; they get access to a life they could only dream of. Every day, they see and feel what it means to live as rich people: from the kitchens equipped with modern appliances to the spacious rooms filled with luxurious items. They touch expensive fabrics, feel the cool air from the air conditioner that runs non-stop, and smell the fresh scent of flowers that always adorn the dining table.

But beneath all that, a strange feeling began to creep into their hearts. Even though they were now in a luxurious house, they still felt like outsiders. The opulence of the Park family home only reinforced the realization that they did not really belong to that world. Every day, they witnessed luxury untouched by crisis, while back home, in a cramped apartment located underground, life went on loudly.

Chung-sook, now a housekeeper, realizes how stark the differences are in the way the Parks and her family view life. On the one hand, Yeon-kyo appears to be a graceful and caring woman, but on the other, there is a lingering indifference to the way she treats the people who work for her. To Yeon-kyo, Chung-sook is just a part of the background of her life—no more important than the furniture or wall decorations.

Chung-sook also noticed the relationship between Yeon-kyo and Mr. Park. From the outside, their relationship seemed perfect. They were the picture of a happy and prosperous family living in harmony. However, the longer Chung-sook lived in the house, the more she realized the emptiness between them. Mr. Park was often absent from home, immersed in his work, while Yeon-kyo seemed like a bird trapped in a golden cage. She had everything that other people could want, but her life felt empty. There was no true happiness, only endless routine filled with formalities and social demands.

While working at the Park family home, Chung-sook often felt mixed feelings. On the one hand, she enjoyed comforts she had never felt before: sleeping on a soft bed, holding expensive objects, and eating delicious food. But on the other hand, she knew that all of this was temporary. This was not their world. They were just guests who came temporarily, taking advantage of the opportunities that were there, but were never truly accepted.

At night, when the Park family is asleep, the Ki-taek family often gathers in the living room of the mansion, talking in whispers and enjoying the brief moments where they can feel like they own the house. They imagine what it would be like if they actually lived there, living in a luxury they never imagined before. There is a sense of euphoria and pride that floods their hearts, but also a fear that lurks beneath the surface. They know that this could all end at any moment, and they must continue to guard their secret carefully.

But behind all this euphoria, the Ki-taek family began to feel psychological pressure that they had not expected. They had succeeded in deceiving the Park family, but they had also begun to deceive themselves. The deeper they infiltrated the lives of the wealthy family, the more they lost their identity. They began to see themselves as someone else—richer, more successful, more worthy of respect. But in reality, they were still poor people who were only temporarily living in a world that should not have been theirs.

Ki-woo, who was initially the most optimistic about the plan, begins to feel uneasy. Even as he continues his tutoring sessions with Da-hye, he can’t shake the feeling that something bad is about to happen. He feels the tension in the air, even as the family seems to be getting more comfortable in the house. He also begins to feel drawn to Da-hye, the girl he’s tutoring. Da-hye, with all the luxury and boredom that surrounds her, is a symbol of the world he longs for, but also a reminder of the vast differences between them.

Ki-woo knows that his relationship with Da-hye cannot continue, but something keeps drawing him closer. Maybe it’s because he sees in her something similar to himself: confusion, emptiness, and a search for meaning in a world so different. But he also knows that this relationship will never be equal. In Da-hye’s eyes, Ki-woo is just her tutor, someone socially beneath her, even though they may both feel something more.

Meanwhile, Ki-taek begins to feel the pressure of his role as the Park family's chauffeur. Every day, he must deal with Mr. Park, a man who embodies everything he hates about the unfair social system. Mr. Park is a perfect man on the outside, but to Ki-taek, he is a symbol of the invisible yet very real oppression of his social class. Every time Ki-taek drives for Mr. Park, he feels a vague sense of humiliation, even though Mr. Park is never outright rude.

“Rich people always smell different,” Mr. Park said one day, joking as he sat in the back seat of the car. The words may have been uttered casually, but to Ki-taek, it was like a slap in the face. It was a reminder that, no matter how well they pretended, people like Mr. Park would always look down on people like him. Their social classes were too different, and nothing could change that.

All of this begins to form the seeds of resentment and frustration within Ki-taek. On the outside, he remains polite and professional, but on the inside, he feels increasingly angry. He knows that what they did was an act of deception, but he also feels that this is a fitting retribution. After all, they are only taking back a small portion of what was taken from them by an unfair system.

And so it is that, although the Ki-taek family has managed to infiltrate the Park family's life, they also begin to feel the emotional and psychological burden of the double life they lead. On the one hand, they enjoy luxuries and comforts they never had before, but on the other, they feel increasingly trapped in a world they never really belonged to.

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Chapter 4: The Facade That Begins to Crack

Ki-taek's family life in the Park household increasingly feels like a dangerous game. They have managed to infiltrate this luxurious life, but the deeper they get involved, the more emotional and psychological burdens they carry. As they travel down this path of deceit, they begin to face a harsh reality: every lie they tell adds distance between them and their true identities.

Ki-taek, who now drives a luxury car for Mr. Park every day, feels his heart beating faster when he is faced with his employer. Every conversation they have, although seemingly ordinary, has an invisible layer of tension. Mr. Park, with his easygoing manner and high self-confidence, always talks about life, success, and all things fun. However, deep inside Ki-taek, there is a gnawing dissatisfaction.

One day, while they were stuck in traffic, Mr. Park started talking about successful investments, talking about the big opportunities in the market that kept him up at night. “Money is just a tool,” he said excitedly. “It’s not everything, but without money, everything is difficult. We’ve invested in a new tech company, and I’m sure it’s going to be a smart move.”

The words cut Ki-taek like a knife. He remembered his family, how they had always struggled to make ends meet. Mr. Park spoke as if money and success were common sense, when to Ki-taek, they were all dreams that were far from reach. In the comfortable, expensive car, with the soft sound of the radio and the scent of luxurious perfume, Ki-taek felt alienated. He felt trapped in a world that was not his own, trying hard to maintain a calm face in front of his employer.

“Yes, sir,” Ki-taek replied in a voice that was not entirely honest. “Money is important.”

Deep inside, he felt anger and frustration. He wanted to scream, wanted to express all the injustice he felt, but he knew that was not an option. He was a driver, and he had to remain professional. But the deeper he got caught up in the role, the more he doubted himself. Was it all worth it? Would all these lies lead to happiness, or would they only lead to destruction?

Meanwhile, Ki-jung feels the pressure growing in her role as Da-song’s art therapist. Each therapy session is a challenge for Ki-jung. While she feels satisfied that she can help Da-song, she also feels that something is missing in the process. Every time Da-song describes his imagination, Ki-jung can’t help but compare their world to the world she sees.

Da-song is a bright child, but also sensitive. He has a wild imagination and often draws strange pictures. One day, during a session, Da-song draws a big house with tall trees. “This is my house!” he exclaims proudly. “Here, everything is always bright, and no one gets sick!”

When Ki-jung saw the picture, her heart felt like it was being stabbed. She remembered her own house, with its leaky roof and moldy walls. “What about my house?” she thought. “Will I be able to teach this child about the real reality, or will I just add to the illusion that already exists?”

Moments like these make Ki-jung feel even more isolated. She loves her job, but she can’t help but feel like she’s just pretending to be someone she’s not. Every smile and laugh she gives Da-song is a mask that’s getting harder and harder to maintain. She wonders if it’ll all pay off, or if one day it’ll all come crashing down and she’ll lose everything.

Chung-sook, who is now a housekeeper, feels pressured by the current situation. Every day she has to make sure that everything is perfect, from the cleanliness of the house to the food served. Although Yeon-kyo seems to be a kind and caring employer, there are very high expectations behind her smile. Chung-sook knows that every small mistake can be fatal, and this makes her constantly on guard.

One evening, after serving dinner to the Park family, Chung-sook feels depressed. She remembers her old life, how she had to struggle to support her family on a very low salary. Now, in this house, she has access to all the luxury things, but at the same time, she feels trapped. Being in such a luxurious place makes her feel unworthy. There is a sense of guilt that haunts her every time she enjoys luxury goods.

One night, as she clears the dining table, Chung-sook finds an item she accidentally left on the table—a very expensive-looking gold bracelet. She is instantly torn between taking it or returning it. On the one hand, she could use the money from the bracelet to pay off her debt and improve her family’s life. On the other hand, she knows that taking it would betray the trust placed in her by the Park family.

After fighting the temptation, Chung-sook finally decides to return it. However, when she returns the bracelet to Yeon-kyo, she feels a suspicious look being thrown at her. “Why did you find it here?” Yeon-kyo asks, her voice hinting at suspicion.

Chung-sook just smiled and replied, “Of course, ma’am. I just wanted to make sure everything was taken care of.” But inside, she felt pressured. Every moment, every little interaction was starting to add to the tension within her. She felt like a ghost roaming the house—present, but not entirely welcome.

One day, while cleaning the basement, Chung-sook finds a hidden door behind shelves filled with cleaning supplies. The door looks old and dusty, as if it hasn't been opened in years. Curious, she tries to open it. Once the door is open, she finds a staircase leading to a dark room underground.

As he descends the stairs, fear and anxiety fill his heart. However, the urge to find out what is behind the door is stronger. When he reaches the bottom, he is surprised to find a small room filled with strange and worn-out items—all looking unkempt. However, what is most surprising is the figure sitting in the corner of the room: Geun-sae, Moon-gwang's husband.

Geun-sae looks tired and dirty, and when he sees Chung-sook, a look of fear immediately appears on his face. “Who are you?” he asks, his voice shaking. Chung-sook is stunned for a moment, not knowing what to say. Finally, she gathers the courage to explain.

“I’m the new housekeeper here. The Park family doesn’t know about you,” Chung-sook said. “How did you get here?”

Geun-sae begins to tell his story—how he hid underground for years, after being accused of a theft he never committed. He explains how cruel life is out there, and how he tried to stay underground, away from the world of injustice. “They didn’t care about me,” he says in a voice full of pain. “They just saw me as a burden.”

Chung-sook felt her heart moved by Geun-sae's story. In an instant, she realized that they were not alone in this struggle. They were part of a larger system that was playing with their lives, and they were all caught up in this game. But when she thought about the Park family, fear came back to haunt her. What would happen if the Park family found out about Geun-sae? Their entire world could collapse in an instant.

Tensions within Ki-taek's family begin to surface. Although they appear united in their plans, each member of the family begins to feel the effects of the lies and deception they have been living through. Ki-taek often feels alienated from his wife and children. They each have different experiences in the Park household, and this makes communication between them increasingly difficult.

One night, after a day of trying to keep their secret, Ki-taek decides to gather the family. “We need to talk,” he says, his voice full of tension. Ki-jung and Ki-woo sit across the table, while Chung-sook stands in the kitchen, listening.

“I feel like we’re starting to lose control,” Ki-taek continued. “Every day, it’s getting harder to lie, and the more pressure we’re under.”

Ki-jung nodded, “I feel the same way. The sessions with Da-song are getting harder. He’s starting to ask questions that I can’t answer. And I feel like I can’t pretend anymore.”

“So do I,” Chung-sook said, joining them at the table. “I found something underground… and it’s going to change everything.”

“Maxi!” Ki-woo exclaimed, “What do you mean?”

Chung-sook explains about Geun-sae and the shocking discovery. Although they are shocked, Ki-taek realizes that this could be an advantage—a weapon against the Park family. They all sit in silence, contemplating the possibilities.

But in each of their hearts, fear begins to creep in. They realize that one small mistake could change everything. Ki-taek's family has created a fragile illusion, and in this world full of injustice, things can turn around quickly.

As time goes by, tensions grow. Ki-taek's family feels the effects of all the lies they've been living. They continue to try to keep up their appearances, but inside, they feel increasingly depressed. The Park family, with all their luxury and success, is a painful reminder of all that they couldn't achieve.

Ki-taek's family may have gained access to a world of luxury, but reality remains. They are trapped in a lie that is increasingly difficult to maintain. Every moment they spend at the Park home is a reminder that beneath the pleasures, there is a deep chasm separating them from the harsh reality.

That night, as they returned to their cramped, shabby home, Ki-taek felt his heart sink. He stared at the dark night sky, thinking about their future. Would they be able to continue living in this illusion? Was it all worth it? In the darkness of the night, he felt a deepening sense of despair. They had created a new world, but where would they be when it all collapsed?

With Geun-sae's discovery, the path they have chosen becomes even darker. Ki-taek's family must now face the harsh reality: they are not alone in their struggle. There are others who are also fighting for survival, and it could all end with one lie being revealed.

Tensions mount as Ki-taek and Chung-sook confront Geun-sae. While they feel sympathy for him, they also know that Geun-sae's existence is a threat to them. What if the Park family finds out about Geun-sae? Their lives could be over in an instant, and all the lies they've built will collapse.

Under increasing pressure, the Ki-taek family must make a difficult choice. Will they protect Geun-sae and risk everything, or will they save themselves? In the deepening darkness, they must face the reality that every decision they make will have profound consequences—for them and everyone else involved in this dangerous game.

________________________________________

Chapter 5: An Unexpected Downturn

After a surprising discovery underground, tensions between Ki-taek's family escalate. They are caught in an increasingly complex web of lies, and every step forward feels like crossing a fragile bridge. Now, not only their lives are at stake, but also the life of Geun-sae, Moon-gwang's husband whom they met in the basement.

Every night after they return from the Park family home, Ki-taek and Chung-sook hold a secret meeting in the basement, brainstorming about what to do with Geun-sae's whereabouts. In that dark and stuffy atmosphere, they plan their next move. They must find a way to keep Geun-sae's whereabouts hidden from the Park family, but at the same time, they are burdened by guilt for putting him in danger.

One night, as they were discussing their plans, Ki-woo, their young son, entered the room. His face looked worried. “What’s going on here?” he asked, his tone full of curiosity.

Ki-taek and Chung-sook look at each other, not knowing what to say. They have tried to keep their children from the hard truth, but it seems to be getting harder. Ki-woo has begun to sense the tension in the family, and now he wants to know more.

“It’s… it’s just a work thing,” Ki-taek replied, trying to sound calm. “We were talking about some things we need to do for the Park family.”

Ki-woo frowned, clearly unconvinced by that explanation. “You don’t look well, Dad,” he said, his voice shaking slightly. “I was worried.”

Ki-taek sighed, feeling burdened by a burden his son should not have had to bear. “Everything will be fine, Ki-woo. We just need time to plan everything.” He tried to smile, but it felt forced.

After Ki-woo leaves, Chung-sook sighs. “We can’t keep hiding this from him,” she says. “He’s already starting to sense that something is wrong.”

“She’s too young to know about all this,” Ki-taek replied. “We have to protect her. This is our burden, not hers.”

But even though Ki-taek tries to be optimistic, he knows that their time is running out. The Park family won't be out of town forever. They have to find a solution soon to keep this secret hidden.

The Park family returns from their vacation, and the atmosphere in the mansion changes quickly. Ki-taek's family feels the impact of the Park family's return. Everything must return to normal, and each member of the Ki-taek family tries their best to keep their cover intact.

On Mr. Park's first day back at the office, Ki-taek feels a little relieved. Although he has to go back to his routine as a driver, at least he can get away from the stressful situation at home. However, discomfort continues to follow him. Every time Mr. Park talks about a new project or the success of his business, Ki-taek feels the gap between them deepen.

Mr. Park spoke enthusiastically about the new investment he is making. “I feel like we are on the right track,” he said. “With everything we are doing, I am confident we will see results in the near future.”

Ki-taek just nodded, unable to respond. Inside, he felt angry and frustrated, but he couldn’t let those emotions show. He had to remain professional and not show his dissatisfaction to Mr. Park. However, the more time he spent around his employer, the more he felt trapped in the social injustice that surrounded them.

On the other hand, Ki-jung interacts with Da-song again, and the longer she spends, the more depressed she feels. Each therapy session becomes more difficult, and she feels more trapped in the lie her family has built. Da-song is a cheerful child, but behind his smile, Ki-jung sees a shadow of sadness. She knows that Da-song is not completely happy, and this feeling is increasingly disturbing her soul.

One day, while they were painting, Da-song suddenly asked, “Ki-jung, why are you always smiling?”

The question hit Ki-jung. She didn’t know how to answer. “Because I’m happy to be with you,” she said, trying to stick to the lie they had built. “You’re a smart and talented kid.”

“Sometimes I feel like everyone is just pretending,” Da-song said, his small voice shaking. “Even the adults. Are we all pretending?”

The words shake Ki-jung. She feels like she’s been betrayed by a truth that should never have been said. Da-song may be a child, but he’s already beginning to recognize the injustice around him. “We’re not pretending,” he says, trying to reassure her. “We’re just… trying to enjoy life.”

But deep down, Ki-jung knew that the lie wouldn't last long. Like any other lie, it would all come out in the end.

Meanwhile, in the basement, Geun-sae begins to feel increasingly pressured. He doesn't want to be a burden to Ki-taek's family, but his presence only complicates things. In a secret meeting held by Ki-taek and Chung-sook, Geun-sae expresses his doubts.

“I don’t want to bother you guys,” he said in a low voice. “You’ve done so much for me. Maybe it’s best if I go.”

Ki-taek looks at Geun-sae seriously. “You can’t leave. This is their house. If they find you, we’re all in big trouble. We need to plan our next move.”

Chung-sook added, “We have to find a way to protect you, but at the same time, we also have to keep the Park family from getting suspicious.”

Geun-sae nods, but his face shows doubt. He feels guilty for intruding on Ki-taek’s family life and creating more problems. “I’m just an ordinary man,” he says. “Why should you protect me?”

Ki-taek feels a heavy burden. “Because we are all struggling to survive,” he replies. “We may be different, but we are in the same situation. We are all victims of this unfair system.”

That night, in the darkness of the basement, they make a plan. Ki-taek and Chung-sook decide to give Geun-sae a new identity, so that he can go to a safe place if things get worse. However, this plan also creates new tensions. They must be careful not to let the Park family know where Geun-sae is, and at the same time, they must keep Geun-sae calm and not give up hope.

Days pass, and tensions between Ki-taek's family increase. Although they try to keep their cover, more and more unexpected moments arise. One night, as Ki-taek waits for Mr. Park to return from a business meeting, he is surprised when Mr. Park informs him that they will be having a party at the house.

“A party?” Ki-taek asked, feeling fear creep into his heart. “For who?”

“Of course, for my friends from the business,” Mr. Park replied enthusiastically. “There will be a lot of people here. You just need to make sure everything runs smoothly.”

Hearing this, Ki-taek felt nauseous. The party was going to be a big deal. They had to make sure Geun-sae's whereabouts were kept hidden, and in a crowd of people, that would be even more difficult.

Ki-jung and Ki-woo also feel the effects of the party plan. They all gather at the house, and the atmosphere becomes increasingly tense. Ki-jung is anxious, trying to think of a way to keep their family's identity hidden. Meanwhile, young Ki-woo doesn't understand why everyone seems worried.

“What’s wrong, Dad?” Ki-woo asked, his voice innocent. “Why should we worry?”

“Nothing’s wrong, kid,” Ki-taek says, trying to be reassuring. “We were just… planning something.”

But Ki-woo has begun to sense that there is something deeper than just planning. He wants to know more, but Ki-taek tries to distract his son.

The day of the party arrives, and the atmosphere at the Park family home is very lively. Music is playing, laughter and conversation echo in every corner. Ki-taek and Chung-sook, full of tension, do their best to do their jobs, trying not to give the impression that something is wrong.

But behind all the fun, they can't ignore Geun-sae who is hidden underground. Maybe no one will suspect his presence in the crowd, but they also know that one small mistake can be fatal.

Ki-taek repeatedly steals glances toward the entrance of the basement, feeling uneasy. Every time someone asks for food or drink, he feels a growing weight on his shoulders. The tension builds, and he feels like time is ticking towards an inevitable moment.

Meanwhile, Ki-jung tries to stay focused on her work with Da-song, but visions of the party and everything that happened above ground haunt her. At one point, as Da-song is drawing, she hears a commotion from above. Suddenly, footsteps approach, and Ki-jung feels her heart pounding.

“Ki-jung!” shouted one of the guests. “Come join us! There’s plenty of food here!”

Ki-jung tries to smile, but her anxiety makes it difficult to enjoy the moment. He feels trapped between the world he created and the reality that threatens to destroy it all.

The tension reached its peak when one of the guests, a close friend of Mr. Park, fell and accidentally knocked a drink onto the table. In the confusion, the guest leaned back and accidentally hit the shelf where the goods were stored. Suddenly, the shelf fell, and at that moment, a loud roar broke the party atmosphere.

Everyone fell silent, startled by the unexpected sound. Ki-taek, who was standing near the entrance, panicked. He quickly ran towards the scene, trying to calm the situation. “Everything is okay!” he shouted, but his voice was barely audible over the noise.

As he tried to help lift the fallen shelf, he felt a unease in his heart. If someone saw or found the door to the basement, things could end badly. He quickly took steps to move things and make sure nothing suspicious was found.

However, in the midst of the chaos, someone unknowingly noticed the presence of an open door to the basement. A curious guest stepped forward, and when Ki-taek turned around, he saw the figure already in front of the door. As the guest stepped closer, Ki-taek felt his blood stop.

Everything seemed to move in slow motion as the guest pulled the basement door. Ki-taek ran, but it was all in vain. With a push, the door swung wide open, revealing the darkness inside. Everyone around fell silent, staring into the dark room, feeling that something was wrong.

“Hey, what’s going on here?” one of the guests shouted, his voice full of curiosity. “Is there anyone down there?”

As the guest tried to step inside, Ki-taek grabbed his arm in panic. “No, don’t!” he shouted, his voice full of tension. “This is just a storage room!”

However, Ki-taek's call is not enough to stop the curiosity. Several other guests approach, and in an instant, the situation that seemed under control turns into chaos. As the guests begin to crowd around the door, Ki-taek feels trapped in a situation he cannot control.

“Who lives here?” asked a guest, his eyes glancing into the darkness. “Is there anyone living underground?”

With a pounding heart, Ki-taek knows that this could all end in disaster. The tension builds as he tries to lie. “There’s nothing here. Just… just some unused stuff.”

But the more he talked, the more questions arose. “Why did the door open?” asked another, as they all became more curious. “What exactly happened?”

As the situation spirals out of control, Ki-jung tries to take over. “This is just a storage room for old stuff,” he says, trying to reassure the guests. “There’s nothing interesting here.”

But those words were not enough to quell the burning curiosity. A bolder guest stepped forward, trying to see deeper. “We want to know what’s inside!” he shouted, challenging.

Tensions are high, and Ki-taek feels caught between two worlds. He struggles to keep all the lies intact, but at the same time, he realizes that this could all end very quickly. In a confusing situation, he doesn't know what to do.

“Please go back to the party, everyone!” Ki-taek shouted, his voice louder than before. “There’s nothing interesting here. Let’s enjoy the party!”

However, everyone seemed hypnotized by the intimidating darkness before them. When a guest boldly stepped closer, Ki-taek felt a wave of panic. In an instant, the door swung open completely, and the guest stepped into the basement.

“Look! There’s something here!” the guest shouted. Instantly, everyone gathered around, trying to see what was inside.

In that terrifying moment, Ki-taek knew it was all over. The lie they had built up all this time began to crumble, and everyone at the party witnessed what they had been hiding. What would happen to all of them now?

All eyes were on the basement, and in the darkness, Geun-sae could feel the danger. He knew that there was no way out, and that everything they had done would end in disaster. As the guests screamed and cheered, he felt trapped in an unavoidable situation.

Ki-taek felt his heart pounding. In an instant, he was forced to face reality. “We have to get out of here,” he said to Chung-sook, Ki-jung, and Ki-woo. “We have to protect ourselves.”

But as they tried to back away from the crowd, Ki-jung couldn’t help herself. “Wait! We can’t leave Geun-sae behind!” she shouted. “He’s innocent!”

Ki-taek stared at his daughter in disbelief. “This is not the time to be thinking about him! We have to save ourselves!”

However, the crowd’s voices grew louder, and in the chaos that ensued, everyone looked confused. As Geun-sae tried to hide in a corner, the screams of the guests echoed throughout the room. “There’s someone downstairs! Why is he here?!”

As everything starts to spin, Ki-taek realizes that everything they have worked for, all the lies they have built, is crumbling before their eyes. Ki-taek's family is caught in a situation they cannot control. What should they do now?

________________________________________

Chapter 6: When the Illusion Collapses

Ki-taek's family life that had been built on lies began to crumble in an instant. As the basement door swung open, everyone at the party gasped, shocked by the shocking discovery. They couldn't believe that there was someone hidden beneath the Park family home. In the chaos that ensued, Ki-taek felt as if the world around him was spinning at a terrifying speed, and he knew that they had to take action immediately.

As the noise grew louder, Ki-taek realized they had no time to think. Geun-sae, trapped in the darkness, sensed the danger looming over him. “What should we do?” he asked, his voice shaking with fear.

“Get ready to escape!” Ki-taek replies, his voice firm even as his heart races. He doesn’t want to leave Geun-sae in this situation, but he also knows that preserving their secret is a top priority.

Chung-sook, Ki-jung, and Ki-woo stand beside Ki-taek, feeling the tension that surrounds them. “We can’t leave Geun-sae!” Ki-jung cries, her eyes filled with helplessness.

“But we can’t be trapped here either!” Ki-taek retorted, his voice filled with frustration. “If they find us, it’s all over!”

Outside, the voices of the guests began to grow louder. “There’s someone downstairs! Let’s go take a look!” a guest shouted, and in an instant, more and more people gathered at the entrance of the basement.

“Ki-taek, we have to do something!” Chung-sook said, her voice full of desperation.

In that moment, Ki-taek knew that they had to choose between protecting themselves or saving Geun-sae. He felt the weight of the decision. “We have to find a way to distract them,” he said, searching for an answer.

“Why is there someone downstairs?” one of the guests asked, his voice sounding curious and a little menacing. “We need to call the police!”

Seeing the situation getting out of control, Ki-taek is forced to take a risk. “I will explain everything,” he tells Ki-taek’s family. “But you must be ready to run.”

Ki-taek stepped forward, trying to calm the increasingly panicked crowd. “Wait! This is all a misunderstanding!” he shouted, trying to distract them. “We only use that room to store unused items.”

However, Ki-taek’s words seemed inadequate. One of the bolder guests stepped closer to the basement. “We need to see who’s in there!” he shouted, ignoring Ki-taek’s warning.

Ki-taek felt increasingly pressured. “Wait! This isn’t the place to be exploring! You should all go back to enjoying the party!”

At one point, Ki-taek could see his reflection in the eyes of the guests. He knew that the lies he had built up were beginning to crumble, and all the illusions that had surrounded his life were now in danger of being revealed. With the courage he had left, he tried to find a way to maintain their position.

In the darkness of the basement, Geun-sae feels the tension rising. He knows that his presence will change everything, but he also feels trapped. As the noise from above becomes clearer, Geun-sae tries to calm himself. “We can’t let them find us,” he says to himself.

But as the crowd grew closer, Geun-sae couldn't contain his fear. In the chaos, he knew he couldn't just stand there. As the sound of footsteps approached, Geun-sae knew he had to act. Bravely, he stepped out of the darkness, his face gleaming in the light of the lamp that shone into the room.

“Who are you?” shouted one of the guests, shocked to see the figure that suddenly appeared from the darkness.

Geun-sae felt fear grip him, but he knew he couldn’t back down. “I… I’m just staying here,” he said, his voice full of tension.

The crowd falls silent for a moment, surprised by Geun-sae’s presence. As they begin to comprehend the situation, curiosity is replaced by uncertainty. “What are you doing here?” the same guest asks, frowning.

Ki-taek, who saw Geun-sae appear, felt as if the world around him had collapsed. “He… he’s just a friend of mine!” he cried, trying to explain. “He’s not dangerous! This is all a misunderstanding!”

However, as more people started talking, doubt and suspicion appeared on their faces. “What do you mean by friend?” a woman asked, her eyes full of curiosity. “How could he be here without us knowing?”

Ki-taek tries to calm the crowd, but the situation is getting out of control. “This is no place to speculate,” he says, his voice rising. “Let’s get back to our party!”

But the crowd refused to back down. They kept trying to figure out what was happening. “We need to call the police!” one of the guests shouted, and the sound rippled like a wave, stirring up anxiety among the people.

Ki-taek panicked. “No! Don’t call the police! He’s innocent!” he cried, trying to stop the situation from getting worse.

“If there’s nothing wrong, why are you so anxious?” a man asked, sneering. “You look like someone who’s hiding something.”

As the situation spirals out of control, Ki-jung tries to reach her father. “Dad, we have to go now!” she says, her voice shaking. “We can’t let things end like this!”

Ki-taek looks at his daughter with a face full of guilt. He knows that they are on the brink of destruction, and every decision he makes now will determine their fate. “We can’t leave Geun-sae!” he cries.

Meanwhile, Chung-sook feels increasingly desperate. “We have no choice,” she says. “We have to protect our children!”

At that moment, the sound of shouts from the crowd disturbed the tranquility of the night again. “He might be a thief! We need to report him!” the voice echoed, and more and more people began to believe the assumption.

In the chaos, Ki-taek is forced to make a difficult decision. “You have to go, Geun-sae,” he says firmly. “If they find me with you, we’re all in big trouble.”

Geun-sae felt devastated. “But I don’t want to leave you guys!” he cried, tears welling up in his eyes. “You fought so hard to help me!”

“This is no time for arguing,” Ki-taek shouted, his voice full of pressure. “If we don’t leave soon, it will all end here!”

Ki-jung took a deep breath, trying to think clearly. “Can’t we find a way to explain this?” he asked. “Maybe they’ll understand.”

“Too late for that!” Ki-taek replied, his voice filled with tension. “They’re already circling suspicions. We need to protect ourselves and escape.”

As the crowd grew impatient, their voices grew louder. “Come on, get him out! We need to explain this!” someone shouted, creating a tense atmosphere.

Ki-taek felt the pressure building in his chest. “We can’t let them pull us in any deeper!” he shouted, and at that moment, he made a drastic decision. “We have to separate ourselves from Geun-sae!”

Painfully, Ki-taek looks at Geun-sae. “I’m sorry,” he says, his voice full of regret. “But this is for the safety of all of us.”

In a matter of seconds, Ki-taek, Ki-jung, Ki-woo, and Chung-sook flee the crowd, trying to get away from the situation that is getting out of control. They run past the still-stunned guests, jumping over tables and chairs, feeling the tension growing.

They knew that if they stayed there, they would get into bigger trouble. The screams and commotion behind them grew distant, but the fear still haunted them.

When they finally reach the exit, Ki-taek turns around and looks at the still-shocked crowd. He doesn't know if Geun-sae managed to escape or not, but he is devastated to see how everything has fallen apart.

“Let’s go!” Chung-sook shouted, pulling her children by the hands. “We can’t stay here any longer!”

With quick steps, they stepped out of the Park family home, feeling the cold night wind brushing against their faces. As they ran away, Ki-taek felt a heavy weight on his heart. He knew that everything they had done to achieve a better life had now turned into a nightmare.

On the way home, the atmosphere in the car felt empty. Each of them was immersed in deep thoughts and pain. Ki-taek, who had always been the head of the family, now felt trapped in guilt. “I don’t know how I got to this point,” he said, his voice breaking.

“This is all our fault,” Chung-sook added, tears streaming down her cheeks. “We got too caught up in our own lies.”

Ki-jung, usually full of energy, now looks lethargic. “How can we forget Geun-sae?” she asks, her voice full of despair. “He didn’t deserve this.”

Ki-woo looks at them all, feeling caught between guilt and sadness. “We have to think of a way to fix this,” he says, his voice calm despite his turmoil. “We can’t let it end like this.”

When they finally arrive home, the atmosphere in the car remains tense. Ki-taek feels as if there is a weight that will never be lifted from his shoulders. He knows that everything has changed. Their once hopeful life has now become a heartbreaking tragedy.

That night, they all fell silent. Each of them was trapped in their thoughts and guilt. What did they do, how did they dare to take such a risk? All those questions haunted their minds, and none of them could give satisfactory answers.

Ki-taek lies in his bed, awake in the dark. He knows that they must face the consequences of their actions. Everything has changed, and now they must face the harsh reality of the social inequality that has always existed around them.

________________________________________

Chapter 7: Facing Reality

After a night of chaos, the Ki-taek family's life will never be the same again. When morning comes, the sunlight shining into their home feels colder, as if warning them that everything has changed. They wake up with a heavy feeling, enveloped in a haunting silence.

Ki-taek sat on the edge of his bed, staring into the mirror on the wall. His reflection looked tired, his face full of wrinkles and lines of despair. He felt as if everything he had done for his family all this time had meant nothing. All his efforts and sacrifices to achieve a better life now seemed in vain.

Ki-jung came into the room, looking at her father hesitantly. “Dad, are we going to look for Geun-sae?” she asked, her voice soft but hopeful.

Ki-taek shook his head. “I don’t know how we’re going to find him. The situation yesterday was too complicated. We have to be careful not to get caught up again.”

“What about the Park family?” Ki-jung continued, “They might be looking for us.”

Ki-taek felt his heart tremble. “We have to get away from them. We can’t let them find us again.”

Chung-sook emerged from the kitchen, carrying a cup of hot tea. “Maybe we could go somewhere else, start a new life,” she suggested, but her voice sounded uncertain.

“What are we doing somewhere else?” Ki-woo, who had just woken up, butted in. “We have nowhere to go. This is all the result of our lies!”

Everyone fell silent, feeling the weight of the unavoidable reality. Not only have they lost Geun-sae, but their future also looks bleak.

The morning felt quieter than usual. They didn't know how to start a new day after the shocking experience. Ki-taek decided to take his family to the market to get some food. Maybe the atmosphere outside could take their minds off the stressful situation.

After getting ready, they stepped outside. Fresh air greeted them, but a sense of uncertainty still hung over them. Ki-taek walked in front, while Chung-sook, Ki-jung, and Ki-woo followed him with heavy steps.

At the market, the crowds lighten the mood a little, but everyone still feels isolated. Ki-taek tries to appear calm, but as he watches people interact, he can’t help but feel a sense of sadness creeping up on him. It all feels fake, like a play.

“Maybe we could buy some groceries and cook at home,” Chung-sook suggested, trying to offer some hope.

Ki-woo nodded, but his eyes showed doubt. “Can we really go back to the way we were?” he asked, his voice full of worry.

Ki-taek feels caught between hope and harsh reality. He knows that their lives will never be the same, but he also wants to give his family confidence that they can survive. “We’ll find a way,” he replies, trying to sound optimistic.

After walking around the market, they finally return home with some groceries. However, as they enter the house, Ki-taek feels the tension in the air. Something is not right.

“It feels weird here,” Ki-jung said, feeling uncomfortable.

Ki-taek walks to the window and looks around. He sees several neighbors looking at their house with suspicious eyes. “It seems like they’re starting to notice us,” he says, his voice full of worry.

Chung-sook looked at him, “What should we do? We can’t stay here any longer.”

They all feel the pressure growing. Financial hardships and social tensions make them feel increasingly isolated. Ki-taek decides to find a way for them to survive while keeping their distance from the problem.

“I’m going to go look for a job,” he said. “Maybe there’s something I can do to earn some money.”

“Is it safe?” Ki-jung asked, worried.

“I have no choice,” Ki-taek replied firmly. “We must survive.”

The following days become a new struggle for Ki-taek's family. Ki-taek begins to look for a job that can help him earn money to meet their basic needs. However, every time he tries to apply for a job, he feels as if the shadows of his past are haunting him.

On the other hand, Ki-jung and Ki-woo try to help by looking for part-time jobs. They feel trapped in a disadvantageous situation, but still try not to show their despair in front of each other.

One day, Ki-taek finds himself in a small cafe, applying for a job as a waiter. The owner looks at him skeptically, judging by his appearance. “Are you sure you can do this?” he asks. “This isn’t an easy job.”

Ki-taek feels pressured, but he replies, “I am ready to work hard. I just need a chance.”

The cafe owner nodded hesitantly. “Okay, let’s see how you do. But remember, if you don’t meet expectations, I won’t hesitate to fire you.”

Ki-taek is grateful for the opportunity, but as he begins to work, he realizes how difficult the world he has to face is. The customers who come and go pay no attention to him; they only see a nameless waiter. All his efforts and sacrifices seem in vain in their eyes.

Every night, Ki-taek returns home feeling exhausted. He knows that he must endure for his family, but the longing for Geun-sae continues to haunt his mind. Even though they are not close, Ki-taek feels guilty for leaving him in a dangerous situation.

One night, as they gather around the dinner table, Ki-jung looks at her father who looks empty. “Dad, don’t you miss Geun-sae?” she asks, her voice soft.

Ki-taek nodded slowly, unable to hide the deep feeling of guilt. “I feel like we betrayed him,” he said, his voice weak.

“He is innocent,” Ki-woo added. “He was just caught in the same situation as us.”

They all fell silent, feeling helpless. They couldn't help Geun-sae, and all the lies they had been living had only led them into darkness.

One day, as Ki-taek was returning home from work, he saw someone standing in front of their house. The figure looked familiar, and as he approached, his heart skipped a beat. It was Geun-sae.

“Geun-sae!” she shouted, her voice filled with joy and relief. “You’re back!”

Geun-sae looks tired, but his smile is full of hope. “I don’t know where to go. I can’t live anywhere else,” he says, his voice full of regret.

Ki-taek felt a weight on his chest. “But we can’t hide you anymore. They might be looking for you.”

“It doesn’t matter,” Geun-sae replied firmly. “I don’t want to be separated from you guys again.”

Hearing this, Ki-taek was touched. He knew that they were all stuck in a difficult situation, but Geun-sae's presence made him feel as if there was hope left.

That night, they all gather in the living room. Geun-sae explains what happened after the party. He managed to escape and hide somewhere else, but he always felt unsafe. He felt isolated and didn't know where to go.

“Why can’t we live in peace?” Geun-sae asks, his voice full of longing. “Why do we always have to hide?”

Ki-taek felt a heavy heart. “We are trapped in a social divide that we cannot escape. We must survive, Geun-sae. We must fight to live.”

In the days after Geun-sae's arrival, the atmosphere at Ki-taek's house is more cheerful, though still tense. They all try to support each other, but outside pressures still lurk.

Ki-taek decides to take Geun-sae to his workplace. “Maybe you can help out there. I can tell the cafe owner that you’re a friend of my family.”

Geun-sae looks hesitant, but Ki-taek assures him that this is the way to survive. “We have to help each other to survive,” he says.

With Geun-sae's presence, they begin to plan a new life. They learn to support each other, share tasks and responsibilities. Although difficulties still haunt them, they begin to find a little happiness in being together.

Days pass, and Ki-taek, Ki-jung, Ki-woo, Chung-sook, and Geun-sae try to create a new life. They learn to ease tension and minimize conflict, even though it feels hard.

That night, as they gather around the dinner table, Ki-taek talks about hope for the future. “We don’t know what’s going to happen, but we have to stick together,” he says, his eyes full of determination. “We’ll find a way to survive.”

Geun-sae nodded. “I don’t want to be apart anymore. We have to take care of each other.”

In that moment, they all felt new hope, even though they knew that the journey was still long and full of challenges. They vowed to stay together and fight for a better life.

But outside their home, the world remains hostile. Social tensions and disparities make them aware that even as they fight together, they still face great risks. Geun-sae remains a symbol of what can happen if they are not careful.

Ki-taek feels the weight on his shoulders growing heavier, but he knows they must keep moving forward. “We must not give up,” he says, trying to encourage his family.

That night, they lay in silence, hoping that tomorrow would bring new hope. Though the future seemed bleak, they resolved to support each other and face the challenges together, knowing that in the darkness, hope could still shine.