I think since episodes 15-16, Gaksital is indeed becoming a larger figure than one just trying to avenge his father. Gaksital is really becoming the figure of the power that stands against adversity and oppression. Gaksital is the figure of resistance and fighting the oppressor.

Shunji is becoming gradually evil, which is f***ing awesome because that makes him such a great complimentary force to Gaksital, who is evolving to become good, rather than just focus on his vendetta.

The ending seen with “Notsital”, to take Javabeans’ expression, lighting off his explosives and going BOOM, I think this episode is the beginning that should show how all Koreans are Gaksital, rather than just Lee Kang To. And with good reason : Gaksital is not just a man anymore, Gaksital is an ideal. And when you are fighting an ideal, you cannot defeat it, this makes Gaksital an even scarier enemy to the Japs and Kishokai because they’re up against a face-less enemy.

Mind you, it was strange that the rebels didn’t come up with this idea before because that has tremendous potential : even having someone just wear the mask and run around the city to distract the Imperial Police would have the same effect as they do not know who the enemy is. I guess I will see if the writer agrees, but I want to say it one last time : WOW !

I’m hoping this reveal will make me like Mok Dan, and so far I can at least tolerate her without yelling at the screen for her to just leave, or rooting for Rie to finally kill her just to get that tired plot angle out of the way. Not my most sympathetic hour, that one.

Shunji is total dark side. For the past couple episodes, he’s reminded me of the man in a Lifetime abusive relationship. The whole, don’t make me hurt you, schtick. I appreciate his evil cleverness. I still can’t get over the calm way he tortured the circus leader a couple episodes back. That was when I knew without a doubt.

How can Shunji suddenly shoot moving targets?

“I was pretty worried that 18 wouldn’t live up to the cliffhanger, that they spent all their dramatic firepower and would disappoint in the aftermath. But I think it’s safe to say that Episode 18 has plenty of firepower of its own.”
I daresay!!! Nice way to end the ep, it was a blast (pun inteneded).
But spoiled by my aunt who watched it online (am following this on KBSWorld), she even told me what happened after! ARGH Should have never told her about Gaksital having 28 eps.

“… and Shunji tries to convince himself that Kang-to’s absence has nothing to do with Mok Dan’s. And who were you just calling idiot?”
Well, takes one to call one, one.

I watched it when it aired in Korea: your patience will be rewarded.