Showbox / Mediaplex presents
A Generation Blue Films production
It is 1795, the 19th year of King Jeongjo's reign.
Joseon is relying entirely on imports from Japan for silver.
At one point, a large amount of fake silver enters circulation
creating a substantial threat to the economy.
The king secretly commands his closest ally to investigate.
He is Joseon '5 first detective
who will search for truth and justice.
You filthy rat!
How dare you steal from your master
Directed by KIM Sok-yun
Kill this rat.
I paid you good money.
I want my money's worth.
Don't kill me.
I'll double what this man promised you.
What are you waiting for?
Cut his throat, you barbarians!
Or you'll regret...!
Life and death
is in the order of payment received.
This is the formula for making fake silver?
And you're killed
trying to steal from your master.
Have you seen the boss?
He asked for me.
The boss?
He's over there.
No, I'm coming from there.
Then... maybe he's here?
He's not here, is he?
No.
When you're infiltrating the enemy camp,
you should at least know what the boss looks like.
Someone put him up to this.
I'll beat a confession out of him.
That's enough, kid.
We'll know when we hang his head up.
You alright, Seo-pil?
Clearly not. But at least, you're alive thanks to me.
And who got me here in the first place?
You told me to come for you if you don't return after a month.
I underestimated my sociability.
I didn't believe that I would make such a perfect undercover.
You bastard! Tell me why are you here?
I've come to contact an undercover detec...
You can't tell the truth!
You beat the truth out of me!
The boss has a secret vault for special things.
It takes roughly 8 minutes.
Each way is 4 minutes.
His average stride length is 2 ft... times 300 strides is
600 ft. That's where the clue lies.
A 20 ft high tree 600 ft away is roughly 1 inch.
So, this is it.
This is where the vault must be...
but nothing!
Pathetic. No wonder you got dumped.
Did you see it happen?
This would've forever remained a mystery if it wasn't for me.
You'll be a pompous trout even in a dung tub.
It's dark in here.
Sir.
These are from Ming Dynasty. I've never seen anything like them.
How can I take them all with me?
This is a formula for manufacturing fake silver
and our silver smelting secrets.
If we destroy this, it'll be the end of fake silver production.
What's that?
It's a 'Jip-o.'
A what?
A portable fire I invented. A little invention of mine.
The spark created by flints light the kerosene-soaked straw
or 'Jip' as they call it. Hence 'Jip-o'.
What are you doing to the fine paintings?
Better destroy them before they're used wrongly.
What do we do now?
You had to set fire?
We'll either get beaten or burn to death.
Seal the entrance.
How are we gonna escape if we seal the door?
Backdraft... When a compartment fire is suddenly exposed to air,
a backdraft explosion occurs.
Get out of the way!
Get under the cover and hold your breath.
Let's jump.
Are you insane?
If we don't, we'll face a certain death.
You go ahead.
I can't.
How can I hope to live knowing I left you to die?
If you'll die here, I'll make this my grave, too.
Let's jump together, then.
Good thinking.
On three.
- One, two, three!? - One, two, three!
I will happily give my life to...
You, son of a bitch!?
You're not dead.
Whatever happened to dying together?
Why didn't you jump?
People like me can calculate 18,000 things
in a blink of an eye.
It occurred to me as I was about to jump
that it would kill me.
You couldn't tell from a glance? You had to calculate?
But you didn't die. I guess I was wrong.
I almost became a water ghost thanks to you.
What happened to the bandits?
His Majesty will not leave a treasured asset like me to die.
Don't let anyone get away.
Kill them if they resist.
You solved a big case.
The king will reward you with a high position.
I'm not interested in those kinds of things.
DETECTIVE K: SECRET OF THE LOST ISLAND
6 months later
Your Majesty!
What Your Majesty's ministers call a time of peace is only for the rich.
If there is even one hungry subject,
how can one call it a time of peace?
Your Majesty,
please be a sage king who opens his ears to the hungry.
That's Japan.
And that's the direction of Qing.
How many kings do you serve?
Such a poor sense of direction.
Your Majesty!
I am leaving before you.
Always stay healthy and strong for your subjects and shrine.
Are you playing pretend?
I brought that from my trip to Qing.
It's restorative herbal medicine.
How can I take an invigorant as an exile?
It's really good for men.
It's bitter.
Dinner is served.
Now that I saw you and cooked a meal for you,
I should get going.
Why did you come?
Since you're asking...
Fake silver is back in circulation.
What's more serious
is that it's almost impossible to tell apart from authentic.
In the eye of ordinary like you.
The answer is often closer than one believes.
Fake silver is usually mixed with iron or copper
which is almost 1/5 lighter in mass.
If you place a real bullion where we put a fake silver,
naturally, the water will spill over...
But it doesn't.
Of course, I tested that.
What happened to your head?
This is a very sophisticated counterfeit.
You don't appreciate the seriousness of this problem.
Fake silver can lead to a currency crisis.
And affect international traders. The price of necessities will shoot up.
What normally costs 1 nyang will cost 10 nyangs.
Suffering of the poor will increase ten folds.
And you'll do nothing about it?
And break the law?
This islet is Kim Min, 6 months into exile.
Good. Move on.
But we're supposed to watch closely to prevent absconsion.
He's right there.
Now, let's go.
But we must check.
What the...?
Alright. We'll check.
You're Mr. Kim Min, correct?
Keep up the good work!
He says it's him.
Sir.
Sir?
Sir!
Who's there?
Glow in the dark?
You're insane.
Are those human bones?
Luminous pigments can be obtained from animal bones.
You shouldn't disturb the graves.
What are you doing?
To prevent getting possessed.
Sea water is same as salt.
There are no such thing as ghosts.
How can a man believe in something like that?
I had the strangest dream.
Still dreaming.
I had a very good sleep... argh!
She's not a ghost.
She swam across the ocean to meet you, faint-hearted.
You crossed the ocean to meet me?
It's not hard. The tide is low at this time.
Why did you want to see me?
You can tell him.
He's only banished in exile.
I heard you were a famous detective.
Please find my sister.
Your sister?
It's been a fortnight since she vanished.
She's easy to recognize.
She has a big mole here.
Please find my sister. If you find her...
I have nothing to offer you but I'll be your slave.
Go home at once.
But, sir...
As you see, I'm a prisoner in exile.
I cannot leave this ground nor can I help you.
You must go back.
He has his circumstances.
You should report it to the Magistrate.
They won't listen to me.
My friend's father asked for help and only got flogging.
Send her back.
Come on, little one.
Let's go.
She is an amazing swimmer.
Couldn't you do her a favor?
Far more powerful than filial piety
is poverty-
So many children become slaves or prostitutes at the parents' wish.
People burn down their own homes
and go into mountains to avoid hefty tax.
If you can save three of your family by sacrificing one,
what would you do?
We cannot blame the parents.
We can only blame the world.
What are you doing?
I understand how you feel.
That's why we must go ashore.
If more fake silver goes into circulation, the poor will suffer more.
Why did you blow out the light?
I'm not finished!
Maybe I need more powder.
Just a little more.
What? Did you do something to my lips?
Good morning, sir. Your breakfast will be served shortly.
What are you doing here?
It's almost done.
Why is she doing this here?
She was so persistent.
And she's a great little cook.
Stop at once and leave.
What's this?
Looks like a fun toy.
Is it for exercise?
Put it down if you want to keep your hand.
What about my hand?
Have you heard of a ghost bomb?
What bomb? This won't go off.
You think you can fool me?
'Heaven-shattering Thunder' bomb!
Do you know what the punishment is
for acting in contempt of a nobleman?
You get flogged until your skin is mashed
or push a skewer through your fingers and crush that hand.
That's all okay.
If you'll only find my sister.
You made a girl cry, you shameless man.
Go fetch some water.
What a lazy bum!
There is a well right in front of the house.
He couldn't bother to make a well rope?
You need at least 5 ft more.
5 ft?
Wouldn't this be enough?
The width of the well is 3 ½ ft and my height is 4 ½ ft.
If I walk backwards with my eyes on the water,
I can no longer see it after I moved 1 ½ ft.
The distance to the water is...
Depth of the well to my height is
the Width of the Well and 1 V2 ft.
45, 35 is 1715.
Divide by 15 is 10 ½ ft.
You'll need 11 ft of rope.
She's right.
You know the multiplication table.
Did you learn arithmetic?
No, sir.
Villagers were having trouble with making a well rope.
So, I thought about it.
What is your name?
It's Da-hae.
As in 'Abundant Ocean'?
No, sir.
As in 'Does Everything.'
So that I won't starve.
My sister name is 'Do-hae.'
As in 'Does Everything Too'?
Yes, sir.
I see.
They make funny names these clays.
I don't know what to do.
When each person chips in 5 nyangs we're 6 nyangs over
and when each pay 3 nyangs, we're 4 nyangs short.
How many people and what's the price?
Make one's stand.
Make ten's lie down.
5 times 4
5
3
20
So, that's 5 people and 19 nyangs is the price.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Can I be something when I grow up?
If you can, what do you want to be?
Don't be shy and tell me.
I'm not shy to tell.
Just that I've never thought about it.
I see.
This is my sister.
I told you already.
I'm a prisoner in exile.
I know. If you ever return to Seoul,
please look into it.
I don't know when that will be.
Whenever that may be,
I must find her. She's my sister.
It was my fault.
I left her alone to watch exorcism.
You shouldn't blame yourself.
But it was my fault.
I'm supposed to look after her.
Go home before it's late.
Let me prepare your supper.
No.
The wind is growing stronger. Don't think about coming tomorrow.
It looks like there'll be a storm.
It's a perfect weather for an experiment.
Experiment?
What experiment?
For flying.
Flying?
Flying... what?
A man.
As of today, human beings will gain wings.
Almost succeeded.
You call that a success?
It's almost ready, sir.
You swam through this storm?
Didn't I tell you not to come?
No matter how many times you come,
I can't find her.
Pretend that she died.
No, sir! I will find her.
What will possibly change if you found her?
Isn't it better for her if she doesn't starve there?
Think what is best in her interest.
She can't do without me.
She is so timid that she sleeps holding my hand.
I will find her and I...
I will not hear of it!
The storm will die out soon.
You are to return home and never come back.
I haven't been able to...
For clays.
Wait a minute.
Hey!
There was a boat?
I shall go to the mainland.
Pardon me?
I received news from Tsusima.
From Tsusima?
I sent a man there to investigate the cross-channel ferry.
If the silver bullion bars aboard that ship were fake,
it means the Japanese are making counterfeit...
They were authentic.
Are you saying that counterfeit are made in Joseon?
I'll visit the Japanese Settlement.
That's Japantown on mainland.
And, the first stop for the cross-channel ferry.
We'll start there.
What about the boat? It's going away.
Get ready.
What is this?
I've never seen it before.
It's a call-boat.
A call-boat?
That's convenient.
I gotta pay extra for calling.
- Did you call for me, sir? -Who charges calling fee any more?
Take us to mainland... Hey!
It's you!
You're Minister Kim's assassin!
Come here, you.
You're as frivolous as ever.
What's going on, sir?
Isn't this the assassin that tried to kill you?
It's all in the past.
Sit Still.
This islet is... Kim Min, right?
Yes.
That must be him, then.
Oh, I'm sure.
Maybe not.
That's him, even from a glance.
He looks a little shrunk.
Being in exile is so exciting that you'd grow tall.
Of course, you'll cower and shrink.
You are Mr. Kim Min, correct?
It is him.
Don't talk to me like talking to your peer.
I'm your supervisor.
Come on. I'll never do that, sir.
You'd better watch it.
What happens if you get caught absconding exile?
Death by poison.
Will you be okay?
Fake silver is creating chaos for this country.
I can't be concerned about my own safety.
They're gone.
No harm in taking caution.
Is this Da-hae's home?
Da-hae.
Da-hae!
Excuse me.
Da-hae, is that you?
That poor thing.
She lost her mind after losing both her daughters.
What do you mean by that?
Da-hae crossed the ocean almost every clay
to see some detective from Seoul.
Maybe she finally found a clue.
She left saying she knows where her sister might be.
I don't know if the mother really lost them or sold them.
There's not a single family in this village
who hasn't sold their children as slaves.
Don't you worry. I will bring her back.
I'm good at this.
What are you doing?
Over there.
Sir?
Oh, come on!
Stop!
Stop right there.
Why didn't you just act naturally?
My smile was far too awkward.
Isn't this you?
This doesn't do justice for my dear-like eyes.
With an air of pompousness, it is you.
Shush!
Do you know how not to forget your sworn enemy?
You make a scar thinking about that bastard.
That way, you never forget.
You didn't forget me either.
I would love to skin you alive.
Is that okay with you?
Magistrate's court
Let's go in there.
Are you insane?
If they catch us we're dead for sure.
That is our only chance.
How do we get in?
Hit me. If you, a commoner hits a nobleman...
What the...?
This wretch hit a nobleman.
Alright. Come back tomorrow.
Come back tomorrow?
We have an important guest visiting.
We released all petty criminals in preparation.
You should both go home and come back tomorrow.
I'll tell them the truth.
But sir...
You could get a death sentence.
Let's avoid more imminent death first.
I absconded exile.
Are you Mr. Kim Min?
That's me.
Come back tomorrow.
I escaped from my exile islet!
That must have been hard.
What are you doing?
What do you think you're doing?
You've got so many layers.
Who the hell are they?
Arrest them, now!
How dare you
harm public morals with an unspeakable act?
He also assaulted him.
We can forget about that.
And he absconded exile.
You bastard!
You know that is a very serious crime.
You'll be transferred to Seoul tomorrow.
This is my command.
Yes, sir.
Throw them in jail.
Your Honor!
Sir!
What is it?
You can't let us stay comfortably in jail.
You must torture us for our crimes.
Have you lost your mind?
No, You Honor! We'll be fine in jail.
We have so much information that we won't give away.
Fine.
If that is your wish,
what do you want me to do?
Shall I give you a flogging?
Or twist your legs?
Or just a good old clubbing.
Crush your knee caps?
Get this off me!
Or perhaps, brand you with a hot iron?
The lightest punishment, please.
Flogging sounds good.
It's inappropriate for a nobleman to bare his bottom.
Hand down something that's more dignified.
Please, ignore him! He's gone mad from fear.
We'll go with flogging.
- Attention! - Yes, Sir!
Give them everything so they'll learn their lesson.
May I have a word?
Welcome. We've been waiting for you.
If you'll let me handle this matter,
I'll take care it.
But he's committed a serious crime.
I said I would take care of it.
Don't let anyone in.
I owe you again.
What are you doing here?
I took care of you like I promised.
You can't abscond exile.
My good friend,
the bandits you arrested few months back.
They were let off easily.
I suspect there is someone who has their back.
Why did you jump exile at a time like this?
I could get in trouble for helping you.
Fake silver is back in circulation.
The bullions from Japan were authentic.
It means counterfeit is manufactured in Joseon.
I shall investigate the Japanese Settlement.
The Japanese Settlement?
I know what you're trying to do,
but Japantown is a little different.
It's not really our sovereign.
How about this?
I will look into Japanese Settlement.
Please go back to your islet.
I will do as you tell me.
I'm glad you listen.
Let's have dinner together soon.
When?
Just whenever...
So, when is good for you?
He may be well read
but seems a little off.
- Oh my god! - What happened?
Excuse me.
What's going on here?
Another body has washed up.
A body?
It's so creepy.
Bodies of little girls have been washing up lately.
You'll get a good flogging if you speak of this.
Maybe it was the water for too long.
The corpse is blue.
It can't be Da-hae.
She is a clever one.
We'll go to the Magistrate's office.
Again?
We must get in there to check the body.
But I can't be caught again.
Follow me.
It's not her.
We checked. Now, let's go.
Something isn't right.
There is no sign of foaming.
When one drowns, the violent choking
irritates the mucous membrane of the airways, forming foam.
This child was thrown in the water after she died.
It's poison.
The poison seeped through her skin over a period of time.
What kind of poison? Her lips haven't lost color.
It smells like raw almond.
It's cyanide.
Cyanide doesn't react with blood.
So, it doesn't affect the complexion.
There are more readily accessible poison like aconite.
Why use cyanide?
Cyanide is a solvent used in smelting silver.
Smelting process?
If that's the case...
I suspect
this child was used in production of fake silver.
She died, got tossed in the sea and ended up here.
What kind of a monster does this to a child?
We must hurry.
Japanese Settlement
This place doesn't feel like Joseon.
Trading with Japan is done entirely through here.
Access used to be controlled strictly.
But the law seems to have relaxed.
It's not a small crime ring we're dealing with.
It's bound to have left a trace somewhere.
I'll look into it first thing in the morning.
Come on, sir.
I will bring back Da-hae and the other children.
Come on.
What is it?
What the heck?
What are you staring at?
I can never like you people.
I'm sorry.
He is half-witted.
People throw stones at him when he passes.
See!
Wow.
You speak Japanese?
I just know a few words from my extensive reading.
You're saying you're a genius.
Can I get silver bullions from Japan?
Sorry?
They're transported directly to a high-security warehouse.
You used to smelt silver?
A long time ago.
Cyanide.
It's like a medal.
If it appears here, you'll meet the angel of death.
Only those who are used to the fume can stand it.
The fume makes people faint when they're first exposed.
Not to mention children.
Of course not. Little ones won't last a week.
Is there a process that requires child laborers?
Things that only little girls can do.
No such thing.
Can I help you with anything?
This is very nice.
What's going on?
Is that a woman?
The unusually large topknot suggests it's a woman with long hair.
Her narrow strides suggest she wears Japanese kimono.
More importantly,
Yes?
When I bumped into her...
Squishy!
Pervert.
Let's go, pervert.
Bullions are sent directly to a secret warehouse.
Let's investigate the ferry first.
Hurry! We haven't got all day.
Let's go for a drink later.
Keep UP!
Unload silver bars.
Piss off.
Freezing!
Take this.
Thank you.
I'm in great debt to you.
Can I buy you a cup of... ah-choo!
“lea?
Long time no see.
You look even more beautiful.
You'll stop by later?
Who is she?
I searched every corner but no place deals cyanide
nor did I find any children of Da-hae's age.
We must find the bullion.
What for?
We'll get a fake bullion and track it back to its origin.
Where do we find one?
The warehouse where the silver from ferry is stored.
We're robbing that place?
Silver from Japan is stored here until transported to Seoul.
It's the only place we can obtain the bullion.
What's the plan?
We'll take down the guards.
But they're armed with firelocks.
With empty barrels!
Do you know how much a bullet costs?
Shit, they're blazing at us.
Shouldn't they at least ask who we are?
I thought the barrels were empty.
You might want to see a doctor.
I'm fine. I know my body.
I don't think you do.
What do you know?
But it's right in my face.
Silence! I said I was f...
Are you alright?
You're so lucky the bullet only grazed.
Others couldn't have dodged it.
I'm sure.
Go back to the warehouse.
Find out who has access to the bullions.
Get moving.
That fat man controls entries and exits.
He is as greedy as he looks.
Maybe he smuggles out bullions, too.
Over there!
That is the watchdog.
He looks like a suspicious type.
What about him?
That one is in charge of transportation.
But he's a typical government official.
I wouldn't suspect him.
It's him.
Sorry?
Find out where he gambles.
Gamble?
Look at his ankle bones.
Callus is built around them.
It means they've been pressed for a long time.
He has an interesting habit when checking his hand.
He looks like the straight type but he is hot-tempered.
We might just be able to get a silver bar from him.
Do you know how to gamble?
It's all about probability.
Get your calculations right, you can never lose money.
I will get the bullion. It won't be long.
I'm going to take a bath.
Another 20 nyangs?
You're cleared out already?
I just finished observation.
In that short time?
You lost it from acting frivolously.
I'll show you what probability game is about.
He is that little dim.
Hot! Hot!
It's the last time. Give me 20 more.
You were gonna show me probability.
Can't beat the lucky one.
Help me out here.
Back off if you're out.
Is that all?
Mind if I join you?
Hey, you're that...
If you want. We'll start a new round.
Be careful. She is no ordinary woman.
Don't be distracted... you're not.
Alright.
Come in if you want to see my hand.
You're out?
Fold if you're shitting your pants.
Let me see that winning hand of yours.
Let's see.
I think she played a trick.
Get the bullion.
I had fun.
How did you do it?
What do you mean?
I just got lucky.
This is unbelievable.
We need to be somewhere.
Wait.
Is that all of you?
What?
Hot!
I can't see!
Smash it!
Tear it down!
I think we gave them the slip.
It's okay now.
Thank you.
You speak Korean well for Japanese.
Why did you help us?
Maybe some clay,
I'll tell you everything.
I should go.
Did you do anything?
Anything at all?
Raunchy bastard.
Let's get out of here.
Sir!
Welcome!
This is where the ferry crew hangs out.
You have the silver bar?
Why else go through all that...
It's gone.
Maybe some clay, I'll tell you everything.
Look at you.
Men are such amusing creatures.
You'd think one would lose appetite
after making such a crucial mistake.
But you're hungry.
Have you had enough?
You should have some more.
Sir,
are you really investigating fake silver?
I told you I would take care of it.
Please return to your islet.
Old Learning faction is looking for an excuse to get you.
But you have my back.
You want us to go down together?
There seems to be more than one group
involved in manufacturing of fake silver.
I'll go to the geisha house and find out who is involved.
Why go there?
Traders and people working on ferry seem to go there.
I'm sure to find a clue there.
I'm a prisoner in exile.
I cannot come forward even if I solve this case.
You will take all the credit.
Okay.
I'll back you up with all the help you need.
Who is the most beautiful geisha here?
I don't understand...
Send in another.
- Sir... - Another.
You can't help showing off.
You have to speak in a foreign language?
We came to get clue about Japanese.
We need to talk to a geisha who knows Japanese.
Of course.
Who's the most beautiful geisha here?
No. 1...?
Send in another.
Next.
Welcome, gentlemen.
You've come to the right place.
I'm the most beautiful geisha in this house.
- Next. - Next.
I'm Sakura.
Hey...
It's all very nice here
but you shouldn't leave the kitchen to greet us.
Go back to the kitchen.
Are you planning to reject all geishas at this establishment?
You're that thief.
Stealing from me did you any good?
My name is Hisako.
You scared me!
I don't drink.
- Let me fill your cup. - I said I quit.
Is this where we can have a heart-to-heart?
With so many eyes watching?
We have drinks but no music.
Can you play something, zither player?
You there.
You who's not looking at me.
He is blind.
How unfortunate.
Look at you.
You must work out.
I never exercise.
I'm covered with bed sores from lying down all day.
I need to take a leak.
I'll come with you.
Hey, you.
I kept my virginity to this day to meet you.
You look like my brother.
Please, madam!
There'a give-away mistake that pretend-blind makes.
When a blind man hears a sound,
his eyes naturally move to the direction of the sound.
Pretenders refrain from doing that.
Like you did.
It's you, sir.
I wondered who you might be.
The sound of your fist is amazing.
Can't find your shoes because you can't see?
They are your shoes.
Why are you doing this to me?
Why do you pretend to be blind?
It gives an air of greater musicality.
It's a kind of mysticism
if you like.
Please, my livelihood depends on it.
Keep this a secret between us?
I will keep it a secret.
What will you do for me?
But I know nothing.
I didn't ask you anything.
That geisha, Hisako...
I only know that she's from Japan.
From Japan?
Is she really that scary?
Kind sir
Please... I know nothing.
I just come and play music when I'm called.
That's all.
What are you doing here?
Pardon?
I asked if he can teach me to play the zither.
Indeed.
I should go now.
Did you know that he isn't blind?
How can you not notice?
Let's go back inside. I have many questions for you.
I would love to answer them.
But I'm rather popular here.
You must make a reservation for a future date.
Wait.
Do you slap hard?
Tear-jerking hard.
You remembered, hand.
Name.
People call me zither player.
Age.
The year of monkey.
Do the Japanese from ferry boat visit often?
Answer him!
Not only do they visit often,
a lot of them stay at the geisha house
until the ship sails back to Japan.
Who do they meet?
Geishas. That's why they're there.
Other than geishas?
I'll give you a smack.
It's geishas who spend the most time with them
and know them best.
Is there a place at the geisha house
that's suspicious?
Perhaps a secret place where children make fake silver...
Hey!
Fake... silver?
If you speak a word about talking to us,
we'll tell the world that you're a pretend-blind.
Why are you doing this to me?
I'll ask one more question.
Tell me about Hisako.
She only arrived here a few months ago.
I'm not sure if she is really Japanese
but I heard she was very famous in Japan.
No one knows why she came to Joseon.
She's the top geisha and deals only with Japanese guests.
She has a temper of a lioness. No one messes with her.
But most importantly, from observing her from vicinity,
she is
an incredible beauty.
Right?
You have a good eye.
Is she seeing anyone special?
Like I said, she has a fiery temper.
What chance do I have?
Oh, come on!
You can get her easy. No question about it.
What?
Why do I have to watch her?
She is definitely related to fake silver.
That's not possible.
She may have a prickly temperament...
I'm sure that bitch is capable of anything.
Who she meets, what she does with them
and what she does when she is alone.
Report to me everything you see.
Good work.
Sir!
Who is it?
I was watching Miss Hisako.
She retired to her room so, I was going to leave
when suddenly, someone put a noose around my neck...
I almost died tonight if it weren't for you.
Did you see something?
Not really.
You must have if they wanted to kill you.
There was nothing like that.
Can I get more pickles?
Are you sure you came back from the dead?
I gotta eat when I can since I don't know when I'll die.
Alright. Go on.
It's gotta be her.
They wouldn't need a horse, if it was someone stronger.
We need to find a new place to stay.
I'll arrange that.
Can I have some more rice?
You just had a whole pot by yourself.
A pot a day for you?
Stand guard around him.
Whoever wanted him dead will come back.
If it's okay...
More rice?
I might kill him before they get to him.
- The ship capsized. - Treasures fell into water.
- Tons of silk! - Ginseng, too.
It's the ferry.
It brings in silver bullions
and return with a shipload of fine goods.
It must have capsized sailing in a bad weather.
They must've upset the Dragon King Island.
They had it coming.
Dragon King Island?
Southeast of here,
there's a place with strong currents that we avoid.
Current is that strong?
Strong enough to destroy a ferry boat?
I've never been there. But that's what I heard.
Who said that?
You heard, too?
Of course. Even children know that.
You've all heard about this island but no one's been there?
Who in their right mind would go into their own death?
We stay clear of the area.
Move over. That's mine!
You can't get a small piece of land even after death.
I believe she was used in manufacturing of fake silver.
She died, got tossed into the ocean and washed up.
Who would go into a deliberate death?
I'm not sure if she's really Japanese.
No one knows why she came to Joseon.
I tried to stop him.
He must have an urgent business.
Leave us.
Say what you know.
Is that a threat?
I'm asking you.
You have quite a way of asking a favor.
I was looking for a girl.
I hope you find her.
I found her today.
And I buried her.
At the foot of a stony mountain.
She shouldn't have died like that.
What did you do?
If she wasn't supposed to die that way,
why did you let that happen to her?
Her name was Da-hae. She was looking for her sister.
She had this on her.
It means she came here.
Where she was going is where her sister is kept.
She must have been excited to see her sister again.
Not knowing that she'd be used in making fake silver.
You stole that bullion from me to hide the truth.
Because I mustn't know that the bullion was counterfeit.
From this moment, do not expect sympathy from me.
What have you found?
Authentic bullions from Japan are switched before they reach here.
Are you saying that the switch is made on the boat?
The boat could sink under the weight.
Dragon King Island is where fake silver is manufactured.
But I heard that no ship can go near it.
That's what I heard, too.
Everyone has heard so but no one's ever been there.
Our children are dying there.
If that's true,
this is way above your head.
I'll go to the island first.
No, I'll dispatch the army.
It's too dangerous for you.
But it'll be too late.
I promised the little girl
that I would find her sister.
You'll risk your life
for a lowly slave girl?
All lives are equally precious.
I'll start with the owner of the geisha house.
I gave him a chance to save himself.
He just wouldn't listen.
I filled it up for you to take.
What are you going to do about Hisako?
I shall prepare myself since they'll be on the move, too.
What's with this pressing music?
I'm doing nothing but wasting your food, so...
You really try my patience.
And turn me into a monster.
MY neck! My neck!
When I open the door to leave is
one.
When Hisako enters,
Two.
And when she gets changed and leaves,
Three!
The tube sprayed luminous paint.
One.
This is a map created by Japan's feudal government.
- Never upset the Dragon King Island. - Even the little ones know that.
I only know that she's from Japan.
Two.
This can really complicate the matter.
Three!
Sir?
It's me.
What are you doing there?
I'll put on the paint.
This is me.
Where are you?
Right here.
Put this on. Hurry!
I don't know who you are
but don't touch him. He's mine.
Out of the frying pan into the fire.
Boys, don't kill him too quickly.
Make sure he breathes.
Get them!
Stop!
Who is it?
How dare you open my door at this hour.
You must not wish to live.
Government officials are here.
They're gone.
Thank you.
Who was it that tried to kill you?
Probably the same man that wants you dead.
So, you were investigating fake silver, too.
I don't know why you're working for Japan.
Just... be careful.
Past midnight tonight,
another ferry boat will leave for Tsusima.
It's for saving my life.
Man, oh man...
Where did you get beat up so badly?
I almost died today.
That's a pity.
I could've had hot beef soup from your funeral.
What the heck?
You don't want this?
I'll just get some sleep.
I'm turning the lights out.
But I'm still eating.
You'll find your mouth even in the dark.
I'll... leave the light on while you eat.
Oh yeah?
So, you know.
Know what?
You figured it out.
Your quick wits got you this far.
I'm sure you know.
What are you talking about?
Could you have thought of this, too?
You should know when your neck will be punctured.
Shouldn't you?
Shit! Damn blood!?
Shut up!
Dragon King Island...
Used as Japanese military base during the war.
But it's hard to access.
Maybe from higher up?
Come on, you little shit! Move it.
Period?
Over there.
Have your period?
There.
Have your period?
Your nipples are hard and you have dark circles.
You started your period. How dare you lie to me?
Over here.
These are girls I'm sending to Japan.
Clean them up so that they get a good price.
Send this lot to the factory.
Yes.
Pedophilia!
They didn't need young girls for fake silver production.
They use the girls who cannot be sold for pedophile sex
to manufacture fake silver.
She's dead.
Get her out of here.
Hurry!
Do-hae?
How do you know my name?
Did you hear that?
I'm sure I heard something.
Search.
I swear I heard something here.
You sneaky bitch!
How did you get here?
Follow me.
I'm sorry.
I'll come for you.
The zither player!
Did you enjoy your tour of Dragon King Island?
What have you done with Seo-pil?
What do you mean what?
You simply don't bother people when they eat.
He won't stop babbling so I put a hole in his neck.
You sell young girls to Japan for pedophile sex
and use others for manufacturing fake silver.
Son of a bitch!?
Nobleman can swear.
Now I remember.
Your eyes looked familiar.
I was sold to Japan thanks to you.
Now I must pay you back.
Don't move!
Stop what you're doing.
You arrive in such a timely manner.
I am beyond thrilled to see you.
Prisoner Kim Min!
You broke the law by absconding exile
and collaborated with a Japanese woman
to produce fake silver and put this country's economy in jeopardy.
My friend!
It's me.
Why are you doing this?
The head of fake silver manufacturing ring is him.
There's a government official that backs his operation...
...it was you.
Do your job right.
I'm paying you tons of money.
What are you doing?
Arrest those two.
My name is Hwa-yeon.
I'm a daughter of a slave.
I gave that girl that sweet.
The girl called Da-hae
came to see me.
How old are you?
I'm twelve.
Why are you here?
To find my sister.
I was told I can find my sister here.
Was she taken away on a boat, too?
I'm not sure.
Thank you.
I want to give it to her when I see her.
Take care, little one.
You're Korean, aren't you?
No, I'm not.
Why didn't you tell me earlier?
Have you cut your fingernails before?
What are you talking about?
Slaves' children never cut their nails.
The nails wear off before they can grow.
Toenails fall off before they can grow.
Do you know how many children
get sold off for debt or hunger?
At first, they blame their parents for selling them
but the moment they taste rice in their mouths,
the grudge turns into gratitude.
It's the best thing that my parents have ever done for me.
For a child who was born as a slave,
there is no such thing as a better or worse world.
I was lucky to be sent to a Japanese official.
Now I'm investigating fake silver on their behalf.
If I stayed here,
I never would've dreamed what I could be.
Can I be something when I grow up?
Don't be shy and tell me.
I'm not shy to tell.
Just that I've never thought about it.
Why did you do it?
I used to look up to you back in the day.
You did this to poor children for money?
I don't appreciate your tone.
You know so well
that I got passed over for minister many times.
I have no power nor strings.
How else can I possibly become a minister?
Money is power and string.
I know your type.
Money is all that matters.
You spineless scum!
Enjoy your time here.
I brought in your old friends to keep you company.
I can't breathe!
You should rest.
I've died and come to hell?
No, you're not dead.
What happened?
You came to me spilling blood.
I did?
You came to me in your dying breath.
I couldn't die with dignity?
Have you seen my master?
Just a few more clays.
There are children that need to be saved.
They are sold for sex
and get killed making fake silver.
Such poor souls.
Look, noble sir.
You're putting your neck out for some slave's daughter?
Tell me something I can believe.
Would you believe that if you were me?
These children are people of Joseon, too.
Every time you look at that scar,
remember all the little ones who died because of you!
If even 1 nyang is short from what you promised,
I will break your neck.
We have no time.
I shall go save the children. Please take care of fake silver.
I'll take care of things on my end.
It's impossible to go near the Dragon King Island.
The only way we can without getting caught...
The sun is coming up.
We'll go through the sky.
Didn't that crash into rocks last time?
It never succeeded.
Never failed either.
What the heck? I saw it crash with my own eyes.
I know why it failed. It's the same as success.
That's a load of bull.
How did you figure out the error?
How?
Here we go!
Where do we land?
Somewhere down there.
That's it!
You can land this thing?
It's the first time I've flown it.
I knew it.
That wasn't bad, was it?
Are you kidding me?
Come on. We don't have a second to waste.
This is the entrance.
First, place a fuse in a bamboo pipe.
Put it in a bigger pipe and fill it with gunpowder.
It's recorded in the book as Heaven-shattering Thunder.'
A time bomb controlled by the length of the wick.
Let's separate here.
Remember, you have ¼ hour from when you light the wick.
Looks good, huh?
Get in line for your soup.
Move it.
You! Come here.
Get up. Open your mouth.
I said open your damn mouth.
You are one evil monster.
Spare me, please.
I'm only doing as I'm told.
I can't hit a woman.
- Don't kill me. - Get out of my sight.
Thank you, generous sir.
Are you okay?
Where is Do-hae?
It's okay. We're here to get you home.
Do-hae got caught running.
She's taken to the factory.
Everyone, follow this man out.
Stick together. Don't fall back.
What are you going to do?
We need a distraction while the children get out.
I'll divert the guards' attention and look for Do-hae.
Leave with the children and light the wick.
Sir,
can you get out in 15 minutes?
I can't.
What?
Just do as I say.
Hide behind rocks.
Careful, careful.
Hide there.
You just won't die!
Do you have any idea
what kind of damage you caused me?
Do-hae, I'll tell you a story that you know.
What the hell?
The villagers were having problems with their well rope.
A clever girl called Da-hae calculated the exact length.
Do you know how?
If the rope is too short, the bucket will dangle...
Kill her!
Then, I can catch it.
You're clever like your sister.
He must've thought of a way.
Where do you think you're going?
Don't be scared.
You gotta see your mom.
Sir!
You alright?
No, I'm not.
You look fine.
I said I'm not!
Thanks.
Attend to him.
You don't have to.
A geisha paid me good money to do that.
She seems incredibly worried.
The pretty one or...
Not that one.
Let's go.
Not you.
No payment no ride.
They're all covered.
Who paid for them?
I did.
Let's go.
Excuse me.
I will compensate generously if you take me with you.
Seo-pil, can you cover for me?
Mom!
Do-hae!
My baby...
Do-hae.
What became of the geisha girl?
She sympathized with children suffering the same fate as her.
It would have been hard to convince the army
if she didn't reveal that she was a Japanese spy.
You remind me of frilled lizard.
This is the trendy look. What do you think?
You look very uncomfortable.
She is Joseon's daughter and the king's treasured subject.
Treat her with respect.
Did you see her face?
She is totally swept off her feet.
Didn't my voice quiver at the end?
It was alright, huh?
It wasn't great or anything.
Seeing that you're both alive, I take it the children are safe.
What happened to your friend?
As Mr. Kim advised,
we confiscated his wealth
and distributed to the poor.
It bought freedom for many slaves
and fed many poor families. But sadly...
Sadly?
He took his own life.
It was greed that drove him.
Losing all that fortune
must have been the worst punishment he could get.
His Majesty acknowledges you as his subject.
Why are you going back to Japan?
I want to go out into the world.
Come back to Joseon whenever you wish to.
When you come back, I...
1"ll always remember that I'm Joseon '5 daughter.
Don't.
- She's just... - I won't hear of it.
- She's just not into you. - Shut up!
I thought about my dream.
So, what do you want to be?
I want to be a flower.
A flower?
Why is that?
Flowers are always treated preciously.
They don't get pulled out like weed
or get stepped on like grass.
They're loved by all.
You don't have to be a flower. People are all precious as they are.
What a loss!
Paju, Gyeonggi Province Not long after
She was stabbed with a sharp object.
Judging from the depth, maybe it wasn't an object.
Two identical marks
and the distance between the marks
suggests...
Suggests?
It hurts!
Have you lost your mind?
Canine teeth.
You mean fangs?
Not animal's but human's.
Surely, it can't be human.
No human has canines like that.
OH Dal-soo LEE Yeon-hee KIM Myung-min
Directed by KIM Sok-yun