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Man to Man: Episode 9

We sort of took the long way around, but now it’s finally time to acquire the second wood carving. Seol-woo enlists Do-ha and Woon-kwang in his Black Auction mission, and things get a little rocky for the new recruits. There’s a lot of money on the table and everything depends on their teamwork, but how can they trust each other when Seol-woo has lied to them before?

 
EPISODE 9 RECAP

Do-ha and Woon-kwang press Seol-woo for details on her father’s situation because they can’t get in contact with Dong-hyun anymore (since he’s also being detained). Seol-woo almost pleads for more time and asks them to trust him, but Do-ha maintains a defensive stance and asks resentfully how they’re supposed to trust him now.

Aww, for a moment, Seol-woo looks at her with guilt in his eyes and doesn’t reply. Woon-kwang cuts in to ask if Seol-woo has a plan and offers his services in any way, shape, or form. He mentions, in particular, his martial arts expertise.

Seol-woo comes up with one way that Woon-kwang can help, or rather, five million… dollars. Woon-kwang staggers at the number, certain that he’s misheard. The spy explains that the money was supposed to come from the NIS, but there’s been a problem. Without the money, they can’t complete their mission and clear Do-ha’s father’s name.

They need the funds by noon tomorrow and not a moment later, or they’ll lose their opportunity. Woon-kwang tries to wrap his mind around the loss request, and Do-ha tells him to forget the whole thing, since Seol-woo can’t be trusted. Woon-kwang interrupts her to agree to finance the mission. She’s shocked, but Woon-kwang says that the reason he earned money is for situations like these.

Do-ha and Woon-kwang meet later at his house, where she asks if he’s really okay forking over the cash. He insists that it’s not a problem for a big Hollywood star—… but then ends his sentence by asking Do-ha if it’ll be okay. He shakes it off and reframes the idea as a loan to his cherished brother… but then in an itty-bitty voice, he seeks reassurance from Do-ha that he’s doing the right thing.

Do-ha advises that they find some other way, since she knows Woon-kwang worked too hard to save all that money just to blow it on a “situation like this.” He takes issues with her dismissal and says that the money is being used for her, for their family, and for the country, so money isn’t important. These two are so great together.

She thanks him, and he reiterates that it’s a loan and that Seol-woo wouldn’t scam him. But Do-ha applies her long experience with creditors and says that they need collateral from Seol-woo in exchange, because she believes that when money is involved, blind faith is worthless.

Later, Do-ha informs Seol-woo that Woon-kwang is graciously lending him money, and Seol-woo replies with a short, “Yes.” She’s offended by his ungrateful attitude, and Seol-woo replies simply that he already knew Woon-kwang would do it, since it’s for Do-ha. She calls him out on using another spy tactic on them, but he avoids the accusation and declares that her father will be freed soon.

She lets his manipulation slide since she’s doesn’t have another choice before presenting her conditions: since Seol-woo’s “credit is the absolute worst” (haha), they’ll need something in return.

Do-ha holds up a handwritten contract for Seol-woo to sign away his “body.” The contract outlines how Seol-woo will return to his Guard Kim identity and protect Woon-kwang from danger. And if he disappears like he did last time, then she’s going to post his photo online and blow his cover to the world. Well played.

Seol-woo argues that he has a mission to complete in two days, so she says that while he’s away, he’ll need to report his every move to her, or he can kiss that five million dollars goodbye.

At home, Do-ha vaguely fills Song-yi in on the situation without going into too many details. Song-yi is surprised to hear that Seol-woo is back in the picture and wonders if Do-ha will be okay with him around. She doesn’t think it’s a good idea, and calls Seol-woo a bad boy-type. Do-ha corrects her friend and says he should be called a dangerous and evil bastard. She vows only to work and do nothing else.

In his not-so-secret hideout, Seol-woo reviews his black auction plan before noticing Do-ha’s contract. He reads it over and smiles to himself as he hears Do-ha’s grumpy, shouty voice in his head.

On his date with Sharon, Department Head Jang mulls over his meeting with Seung-jae, where he declined to join the chaebol on the dark side. In the present, Department Head Jang poses a question to Sharon, asking if money or honor is more important. For her, the answer is simple: money. She claims that these days, honor can be purchased with money.

But, she adds that since she’s met him, her opinion has changed — she’s realized how sexy an honorable man who can’t be bought is.

Mi-eun helps Seung-jae get ready the next morning, and he shares the details of his meeting with Department Head Jang to her. She urges him to use the NIS agent for his own means, but her husband warns that Sharon might be affected by it. Mi-eun coldly replies, “Family comes before friends,” but her jaw tightens as she says it.

Seung-jae turns around to look his wife in the eyes and almost smiles before their son walks in. (Oh good, she got her kid back.) Seung-jae coos over his son and says that he must be happy that his mother is all better now. The boy tells Mi-eun not to get sick anymore, so she pulls him into her arms and promises that she won’t while Seung-jae observes, looking pleased.

Meanwhile, Woon-kwang is getting more money sucked out of his veins. CEO Ji needs about a billion won to pay the staffers, among other expenses. Woon-kwang explodes and starts hitting the CEO, but CEO Ji points out that Woon-kwang is the one who wanted to become the largest shareholder of Chewing, even though he had advised against it.

Woon-kwang deflates as he remembers that he did promise to pay all that money, and he pitifully calculates his losses. He attacks CEO Ji again, wishing his money problems were all a dream.

Downstairs, Seol-woo is reunited with the other staffers, who still mistakenly believe that Seol-woo and Woon-kwang got into a physical argument. Of course, this is news to Seol-woo, and he confusedly accepts Sang-shik’s praise and respect for “doing the right thing.” Hehe.

Woon-kwang comes down and asks Seol-woo if he’s thought over Do-ha’s proposal. He starts off by saying that her conditions are absurd, but Seol-woo interrupts to say that he’s accepting everything. Woon-kwang looks immediately dejected, but he mtries to disguise his misery.

With their noon deadline looming, there isn’t time for chitchat. The two brothers relocate to the bank to withdraw the funds. Woon-kwang wants to confirm that this moneylending setup is highly irregular for NIS agents and that it’s only possible because of their uniquely close relationship. Woon-kwang tries to wiggle out of the deal last-minute, but Seol-woo grabs his hand, looks him in the eyes, and swears to pay him back, even calling him “Hyung-nim” to seal the promise. Seol-woo squeezes Woon-kwang’s hand tighter and tighter whenever it seems like Woon-kwang is losing his nerve.

The teller (cameo by Song Joong-ki) informs Woon-kwang that after the withdrawal, he will have one billion won left over. Woon-kwang laughs (but actually cries) when he realizes that he has exactly the right amount of money needed to pay all his bills, which means he’ll be left with nothing.

Seol-woo bats his eyelashes and encourages Woon-kwang to authorize the transaction. Woon-kwang’s finger hovers over the button pad awaiting his pin number, before he stops to add a condition of his own.

We don’t get to hear it just yet, and we instead shift over to Do-ha visiting her dad in prison. Dad insists that this time it wasn’t him, and though he sometimes delivered very expensive artwork for Robert Yoon, he definitely didn’t kill him. Dad suspects that he’s been set up and tells Do-ha to reach out to Assemblyman Baek for assistance.

She agrees to look into it, but for now, she tells him to take care of himself — she’s deposited some money for him to use at the commissary. Distraught and moved, he thanks her and apologizes. He asks about Seol-woo and feels guilt-ridden when he learns that they broke up, which he blames himself for. She doesn’t try to assuage him and begs him to repent while he’s in prison.

Seung-jae and Assemblyman Baek watch a news report on Ki-chul’s escape from detention. Assemblyman Baek discloses Ki-chul’s call to Seung-jae, where the rogue ghost agent asked for one more chance to get the wood carvings back. Assemblyman Baek suggests that they use Ki-chul and dispose of him once they get what they want, since he’s useless now that his identity is known to the public.

The five million dollars is transferred, and Seol-woo receives confirmation for Woon-kwang’s participation in the Black Auction. Woon-kwang warns Seol-woo not to forget his promise, and we flash back to Seol-woo disclosing to Woon-kwang that his mission is related to Songsan, and subsequently, Mi-eun.

Seol-woo told Woon-kwang his theory about Seung-jae hiring hitmen to orchestrate both of Woon-kwang’s accidents. He believed that the reason was Seung-jae’s jealousy over Mi-eun’s lingering feelings for the action star. Woon-kwang had taken the news in, and Seol-woo had advised him not to meet with Mi-eun ever again in order to stay safe.

Back in the present, we learn that Woon-kwang’s condition was for Seol-woo to arrange a meeting with Mi-eun, but without Seung-jae learning about it. Seol-woo promises to do so just before Do-ha joins them. She eyes Seol-woo suspiciously as he creates a plan on his tablet, and so begins Operation: Ex-lover Encounter.

The stage is a children’s museum, where Mi-eun and her son are spending the day. Woon-kwang attaches a transmitter to a car in the parking lot, and Seol-woo sets off the car’s alarm. Mi-eun’s bodyguard leaves to check on the car, and Seol-woo steals the keys from him. He passes them along to Do-ha before approaching Mi-eun.

He requests a few minutes of her time, and soon, we find her standing with Woon-kwang, who asks at last to know the reason she left him all those years ago.

We cut back to Seol-woo, who is watching Dark Death’s number one fan: Mi-eun’s son. Do-ha joins him shortly after, and learns from Seol-woo that this meeting was an additional term requested by Woon-kwang in exchange for the money. She complains about it and asks what’s the point in meeting with a person who’s left them. She adds, while looking up at him, “It’s stupid to hold on.”

He agrees and replies meaningfully, “It’s unnecessary and may be dangerous.” She suspects that there is another reason why the ex-lovers are meeting, but Seol-woo doesn’t answer.

Meanwhile in that meeting, Woon-kwang asks Mi-eun if the reason she left is because of his first accident. Her tone becomes acerbic after hearing his theory, and she snaps that she simply chose money over love, that’s all.

He doesn’t believe her and tells her to repeat herself, but this time, he wants her to look him in the eyes. Slowly, her eyes drift over to him, and a sad expression washes over her face. He says, “Right now, you are lying to me.”

Do-ha suggests that they try buying Woon-kwang more time with Mi-eun, but Seol-woo is firm on the allotted five minutes he’d promised. She argues that that isn’t enough time to say everything Woon-kwang has been holding inside him all these years. Seol-woo shoots back, “Time is meaningless,” and explains how talking about everything they feel won’t change anything. Aww, how sad.

Hearing him talk, it dawns on Do-ha why Seol-woo left her without saying a word. He stands by the decision he made and calls it the best option for their safety before he walks away to retrieve Woon-kwang. Do-ha just watches him go.

Woon-kwang vows to Mi-eun that he will complete his movie no matter what Seung-jae does to interfere, because he won’t back down again. Mi-eun warns Woon-kwang not to challenge Seung-jae and tells him to never seek her out again.

Seung-jae meets with Chairman Yamato, who owns a rival company of Songsan’s, and offers to sell one of Songsan’s subsidiaries to him in an effort to become allies instead of competitors. The chairman is interested, but he wants to know Seung-jae’s angle first, and what Seung-jae wants is for Chairman Yamato to purchase the second wood carving at the Black Auction.

At a manhwa cafe, Seol-woo covertly meets with Department Head Jang for updates on Dong-hyun and Myung-suk’s arrests. The situation isn’t good for either man, and everything hinges on the success of the Black Auction mission, which Department Head Jang is surprised Seol-woo managed to obtain the money for. Department Head Jang thinks it’s a bad idea since the place will be crawling with NIS agents, but he can’t even finish expressing his reservations before Seol-woo disappears.

Ki-chul meets with his former henchman, who is still running errands for Assemblyman Baek and Seung-jae. He’s handed an electrician’s uniform and a building pass to disguise himself and gain access to the hotel where the Black Auction will take place. Ki-chul is warned about needing to succeed before he drives off.

Our trio discuss their Black Auction plan: They’ll issue a press release about Woon-kwang attending the Asia Investment Forum, where the wood carving will be auctioned during a specific session called “From Asia to Worldwide.” As they’re talking, Do-ha suddenly asks Seol-woo if he knows Assemblyman Baek. Thankfully, Seol-woo is done with secrets and tells Do-ha honestly that he’s the one who framed her father.

Do-ha and Woon-kwang are shocked to learn that Seung-jae is connected to Assemblyman Baek, and so they dub them “Villain Number One and Villain Number Two.” Woon-kwang hypes himself up for the big mission, and Seol-woo tells them his plan.

The next day, all the bigwigs gather for the investment forum, and NIS agents loyal to Assemblyman Baek stand guard at the venue. Woon-kwang arrives, and immediately reporters descend on him, asking why he chose to go to the event. He gives an answer about being interested in economic trends related to the arts now that he’s a co-owner of his entertainment company while Do-ha uses the opportunity to sneak off.

In a van down in the parking garage, Seol-woo hacks into the hotel’s security cameras and speaks to Do-ha through an earpiece. She’s a terrible spy and acts very unnatural as she talks to Seol-woo while standing alone in the middle of the room in plain sight of the NIS agents on the lookout for suspicious activity. At one point, she makes eye contact with one of them and freaks out.

Seol-woo coaches her through her panic and directs her to a mirror so that she can calm herself and gather her wits. He recommends that she ignore the agents if they approach her and also tells her not to talk to him, since it looks weird.

Nearby, the older man Seol-woo impersonated to register for the Black Auction arrives with the female accomplice who helped him. They greet Chairman Yamato warmly, and he and the woman talk shop for a second. In a good mood, Chairman Yamato tells the woman that he met with Seung-jae.

Do-ha goes downstairs to the parking garage, and is frozen in place when she sees one of Ki-chul’s former henchmen approaching. She’s nearly spotted, but Seol-woo pulls her out of view just in time. He tells her that that man is also an NIS agent, and he’ll leave her alone if she acts natural. He tries to assure her that he’s watching over her so there’s no need to be nervous, and they share a beat together. It’s broken when Woon-kwang radios Do-ha to come back, because the Black Auction forum is about to start.

Inside the room, as the keynote speaker gives his speech, the Black Auction commences. Everyone wears their exclusive rings, inserts an earpiece into their ears, and turns on their event-issued tablets. This is pretty cool.

The first item for auction is a golden elephant table; the table attracts Woon-kwang’s eyes, and he asks Do-ha if he should put down an offer since he has five million big ones to blow. He nearly submits a bid until Seol-woo rains on his parade by telling him that the item was stolen from the British royal family and cannot be resold.

Seol-woo looks like he’s getting a migraine, and he reminds Woon-kwang that the NIS can only reimburse him for money spent on the wood carving. The warning sinks in, and Woon-kwang’s trigger-happy finger backs away from the tablet.

Department Head Jang visits Dong-hyun in the interrogation room, and they talk in vague terms about Seol-woo and his mission. As they do, Dong-hyun makes a very rapid swiping motion with his finger on the table for Department Head Jang to see.

Finally, the wood carving is up for bidding. Do-ha and Woon-kwang ready themselves to participate, but Woon-kwang is really nervous. The opening bid starts, but since everything is in U.S. dollars, Do-ha quickly converts it into won for him, and he cutely praises her on a job well done. Seol-woo, who can hear their giggling, scolds them for fooling around. Hee.

They put in their bid, upping the amount just a tiny bit, but Chairman Yamato is on his own mission to acquire that Songsan subsidiary and forces the amount higher and higher. Woon-kwang gets serious and counters every bid, but Chairman Yamato doesn’t relent, and soon they near the end of the five-million-dollar budget. They ask Seol-woo what to do, so he orders the commencement of “Plan B.”

We flash back to that female accomplice who helped Seol-woo register for the Black Auction, as she offered Seol-woo some information in exchange for a date. He agreed easily, and she had grinned, stating that she “doesn’t want a fake deal.” So he told her, “Then, business as usual.” She told him about Chairman Yamato aiming for the wood carving on behalf of Seung-jae.

Do-ha takes out a little device that Seol-woo gave her which will freeze all electronic devices within one meter. She walks over to Chairman Yamato and stands awkwardly nearby before turning to Woon-kwang to signal for him to input his bid. Instead of bidding, he hesitates, not wanting to lose all his money, and she begins drawing a lot of attention to herself. Worst spies ever!

Some NIS agents/security guards approach Do-ha to tell her to go back to her seat, so thinking quickly, she raises her hand and says she has a question. The speaker tells her that now is not the time for questions, but she’s insistent. She waits until Woon-kwang finally pulls the trigger and enters his bid, and before Chairman Yamato can input his counter-bid, she turns on the device and shuts off his tablet.

The security guards try to remove her from the room, but Seol-woo instructs her to hold out for ten more seconds. She clings to the table and makes a huge fuss in an attempt to buy a few more seconds. Finally, they secure the winning bid.

Woon-kwang erupts from his seat just as his win is confirmed and shouts to the heavens to mourn his loss. He belatedly realizes what he’s done and tries to cover up his actions by applauding and praising the speech, which isn’t even finished yet. He leads the room in applause, and they clumsily succeed by the skin of their teeth.

Do-ha leaves the room to immediately retrieve the wood carving, which is on the 33rd floor of the hotel, and she’s given the key for the specific room where it’s stored. Ki-chul’s former henchman spots Do-ha acting oddly as she goes up in the elevator and alerts the other NIS agents. Do-ha tells Seol-woo about it, and Woon-kwang says he’s coming after her, but she tells him to stick to the plan.

Seol-woo heads into the building and takes the elevator to meet Do-ha on the 33rd floor. She enters the room, but before the door closes, Ki-chul (who has been monitoring the situation all along) slips in after her. The NIS agents gather and walk toward the door just in time to intercept Ki-chul, who leaves the room with a suitcase.

Ki-chul’s former henchmen confront Ki-chul and tell him to hand over the case. The agents begin to move toward him, but suddenly, Seol-woo attacks them from behind. Together, the ghost agents take out the henchmen before fleeing the scene.

In the stairwell, they come face to face and stare each other down before Ki-chul hands over the case. They nod at each other before heading down the stairs. We flash back (lots of flashbacks today) to Seol-woo’s meeting with Ki-chul right before he escaped the interrogation room, where they made a deal.

Ki-chul had said that he knows his career without an identity is over and that his former backers will dispose of him once they’re done with him. He says that he knows guys like him don’t get a “happy ending.” So what he wanted was a certain someone dead, but we don’t get to hear the specifics just yet. Instead, we also flash a tiny bit back to the room on the 33rd floor.

Ki-chul handed over the evidence clearing Do-ha’s father of Robert Yoon’s murder. She took the USB, but warned that she still hasn’t forgiven Ki-chul for what he did. He replied that he would pay for his crimes, and so, she handed over the suitcase.

The ghost agents get into their respective getaway vehicles as the NIS agents close in on them. They exchange nods, and Seol-woo rides away on a motorcycle with the suitcase as Ki-chul gets into his getaway car. He doesn’t seem in a rush to start the ignition, and the NIS agents run forward when suddenly, the car explodes. Omg, was that “certain someone” you?

Meanwhile, Woon-kwang and Do-ha leave the building together as Assemblyman Baek and Seung-jae both receive the bad news.

 
COMMENTS

This show is funny, there’s no doubt, but what I see happening in this episode is a tonal conflict. Are we going for humor, an action thriller, or a romance? It’s hard to keep shifting back and forth, and harder still to keep recalibrating my expectations when all I wanted was for Woon-kwang to press that stupid button. This episode felt like half-attempts at those three genres, instead of having all three elements running on all cylinders. I think the show needs to commit more fully to one thing or the other, or maybe it’s that I feel like the show didn’t bring its A-game today. Everything was fine, and I really liked certain things, but overall, I feel like the story dragged a bit. I think I’ve been patient, but I’m ready for the stakes to rise sharply.

I want to take all the wood carving-spy stuff seriously, but I just didn’t feel the suspense at all when the Black Auction was happening, which I think would be fine if the setup was played entirely for comedy, but it wasn’t. As for the romance, if the point is to hit us hard with the emotional conflict of how Seol-woo’s romantic deception only ended up fooling himself, then that’s great, I can get behind that. But it doesn’t seem to be that either. I think the actors are doing a great job connecting the dots for us with their terrific eye-acting, but there’s something missing.

On a character level, I can understand that Seol-woo is rationalizing/compartmentalizing his emotions. He knows that he likes Do-ha and cares about her, but he also realizes that since he probably will have to disappear at some point in the future, he shouldn’t lead her or himself on. But as a romance, I want to be more invested, so I need to see more chinks in his emotional armor. I wish that he at least apologized sincerely to her—not for doing the mission, because that’s his job, but for hurting her feelings. Facing the other person’s heartbreak is something that he’s never had to do before. He always got to walk away after making a clean break, but the waters are murky now, and he has to own up to some of that confusion. I feel it coming soon, so hopefully now that the mission is over, we can address those lingering feelings.

But look, there’s no way around this: Seung-jae is a terrible villain. The actor makes the character slightly more interesting, but there isn’t that much on paper, since he and Assemblyman Baek barely do anything. I liked when Seung-jae was coercing Mi-eun to bend to his will, because at least he actually did something other than handing a suitcase of money to somebody.

The thing is, for this to be a successful spy drama, I probably should be scared of the villains. At this point, I’d almost prefer it if Seung-jae and Assemblyman Baek were bumbling fools that got things right only by accident and made us laugh in the process. But they’re so boring, and they also they seem like they’re greatly lacking in connections despite their high statuses in society. I mean, if Songsan is really as powerful as Assemblyman Baek frequently tells us it is, then shouldn’t they have had more of the people at the Black Auction in their pocket? Not just one dude they asked like last minute? Those are some odds that would make me nervous.

I was surprised that Ki-chul went so far as to kill himself (though I think he might still be alive), but I knew his alliance reversal was coming. I’m just disappointed that the villains were so surprised by it, because it felt like a missed opportunity to intensify the conflict between our main characters and the baddies. For example, how awesome would it be if Seung-jae had guessed Ki-chul’s plan to fake his death and just actually killed him instead? That would make me worry about Seung-jae more, and it would fulfill Seol-woo’s warning to Woon-kwang earlier in the episode about how dangerous Seung-jae is. Because right now, he’s about as scary as Spongebob Squarepants.

 
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Oppa is being broke now! LoL. I love Oppa more and more

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Yes, he is super broke now after he spends that remaining 1 million on his company. And he is behaving so dramatic about it. It's pure comedy gold.

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I thought he was being perfectly normal. That's probably my exact reaction if I have to take out a huge sum of money out and it's not even for me, lol. Woon-kwang was so adorable when he kept saying, "There's a problem right? So we shouldn't go through with it after all?!"

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There are so many things I liked about this episode but what I probably love most are the music cues. They are SO on point, comically and dramatically. The little blinking sounds when Seol-woo is confused or flabbergasted are so cute.

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Handel's 'Lascia ch'io pianga mia cruda sorte' playing whenever Woon-Kwang bewails his $5M is freaking hilarious: 'let me weep my cruel fate', moaned the opera diva.

By the way, I've learned how to say 5 million dollars in Korean... not that this will ever be useful knowledge.

Also: 2345678 ?

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I love the mini comedic moment WK displays at the auction scene. He looks so crestfallen and yet so dramatic at the loss of his 5 million dollars. The scene has me in stitches.

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I love how silly he is, no one would've even expected to see such a number! He kept punching the smallest amount possible and Seol-woo's eye-rolls were just do hilarious!

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The music cues are definitely on point and make the entire scene cheekier and more hilarious than it is. The musical cues add to my appreciation of the scenes more, so keep them coming!

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Exactly! I love the musical cues and the blink-blink is just so funny!

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I agree. That's what I first noticed when I started the episode. The spy music in the background shifted tempo when Woon-kwang went back and forth between convincing himself to do it for the country and Do-ha, and conflicted over lending his 5 million dollars. So hilarious and on point.

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So, Big Boss practically retired as a soldier and took Yoo Ah In's cameo-character in DOTS.
Maybe that part of DOTS was written by this writer. haha

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I love that brief moment SJK took to cameo in the episode. He looks so good, acting in any role it is unbelievable.

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Big boss got married to beauty, and since beauty worries over his safety, he had to find a safer job.

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Hahaha! Good one Mary!

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i really like this drama, but i felt this episode was a bit of a diversion from the pace of the rest of the series ... did anyone else feel that way?

it had more action that a number of the episodes but i had very little character development ... hmm i have high hopes for episode 10 to get things moving again

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Yeah, I think that's what @murasakimi was saying about tonal conflict. I feel it's because they had a few subplots that needed to be set up/progressed to then be resolved in the next episode. I watched this episode and the next back to back so it didn't feel as jarring.

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I felt that this episode was a bit of a diversion too. I think the Black Auction forum was supposed to be tense, but I don't feel any tension in that scene at all. The entire scene would have been quite flat and dragged out had it not been for WK's comedic but dramatic moment at the end when he used up all his millions to buy the wood carving.

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Lol, Do-ha's Sign over your body to us. Spoken like a true gangster.

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I thought that was rather unnecessary, and more of a ploy to keep SW together with them.

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Am I the only think Do-ha was totally taking advantage of the situation by taking Seol-woo's body as collateral? Totally my kind of girl. So practical.

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Hah, it was *totally* pre-meditated ? Plus, it was DH's way of making him promise he's not going to suddenly up and leave like last time.

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Well, I would totally take advantage of it, but that's DoHa. But I thought that SeolWoo's imagination was wandering when he smirked at that contract.

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Points to Woon-kwang! It was HIS episode, and I loved him in it!
"MY 5 millions!" lol

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You beat me to the recap this time, time-zones, UGH!

It really was! I could not stop laughing at his scenes, he was so funny and I love him for that!

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Two of you are always in this weird competition....*giggles even more*

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It's because she can't accept her defeat ^^!

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I feel so bad for you my friend! Times zones suck lol

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He bought the episode with 5 million dollars, gotta give it to the man. Lol

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Such an expensive episode lol!

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3 ghost agents, 1 spunky manager, and 1 diva? They were the perfect combination for this episode's mission. (And I won't forget my number 1 bias aka the cutest bank teller ever. I miss seeing him on my screen!)

On Ki Chul: Ahhh! The car bomb is a tactic all ghost agents know how to get out from, right? Right? I have a soft spot for KC, and I don't know why. My heart broke a little when he said "there is no happy ending for ghost agents who are useless."

When they played the flashback of him saying "I want someone's death" at the start, I had this premonition that he meant himself, because he probably knew he had no other way out. Of course, this meant that I didn't feel worried about his appearances, which took away a lot of suspense, but I don't even mind, because KC is finally out of the clutches of Baek and SJ.

On Seol Woo & Do Ha: When DH asked him to use his body as collateral, I might have died laughing. I'm so glad she's not mopey; she rebounded right back to being snarky with him. I love this dynamic between them, because I can feel the chemistry and mutual attraction, even if they're holding back. SW keeps making all those little roundabout confessions to her in that soft, tender voice, and I honestly adore how she still gets all flustered even if she's probably steeled her heart against him.

Those confessions - while I like them, and they're getting more numerous, which means he's slowly becoming more "human" (baby steps, SW, baby steps), I can't help but think they're "useless", if he still intends to leave anyway. Sure, it helps DH believe you hadn't been 100% fake which makes the blow less painful for her, but in the long run, she would hurt even more. And I don't like it when DH is hurt! Protective dongsaeng over here! If SW's going to be doing all these swoony things, I want him to have a plan for what happens after these missions are complete - because that's only responsible toward her.

It's interesting that DH says it's stupid to see someone who's left you, because I think she's a softie at heart and it was said out of bravado. She clearly still cares for Dad even though he's left her, and I'll bet she still has a huge soft spot for SW. It sounded like a bit of warning to him, because I think she knows he might be leaving again. Sort of like "this time you're forgiven, but if you leave again... well."

Favourite moments this episode include:
- SW's cute little smile when he read DH's contract and realized he had a reason to stick with them now
- His pity ploy "hyungnim" tactic, complete with puppy eyes that seemed like a threat because WK looked like he was having his hand broken
- His little pep talks to DH, and then telling her that he's always watching over her? Ahhh.
- "It was the best option for your safety and mine", which implies he hadn't wanted to, but did it for her sake anyway.
- WK's moments of "It's fine" with the victorious...

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- WK's moments of "It's fine" with the victorious music intercut with the squeaky sad "it will be ok, right?". Hah! And then taking every opportunity to not lend the $5B. And getting disappointed when his ploys fail. ?
- WK and DH at the Black Auction, and SW looking like he lost 10 years off his life just working with them. I bet the "investors" must have thought they were insane, hah!

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On Ki-chul: I was like why do all these ghost agents like blowing themselves up?

On Seol-woo and Do-ha: That scene made laugh like crazy. I agree about her not being mopey, it makes me want to protect her even more since she must have developed that bravado from a young age. She has such a good heart.

On Woon-kwang: Seriously, where can I get an oppa like that? Every time he tells Do-ha that he can do anything for her sake, my heart grows like the Grinch's at Christmas.

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They love the drama, don't they? I bet that's the most fun part of their job, they get to go "boom!" and shock everyone else while they walk away unscathed. (Pretty cool tactic, though I do wonder how realistic that is.)

I just want to give DH a big hug! And WK is just amazing. The way he says that money is nothing when it comes to family? Argh. His heart is so big, it makes me feel so fuzzy.

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I think that's their exit, making the world believe they're dead so they disappear and slip back to whatever life that is they live, it's pretty smart!

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But as mentioned in one the earlier episodes, you can do that in other countries, but in Korea, is hard to get away with a car bomb explosion.

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For Seol-woo maybe because he's a ghost agent who wouldn't want to get his identity known but Ki-chul is a different case, his face was already all over the country so blowing himself up and disappearing was his only way out!

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I am not sure if that was the perfect combination for the mission in this episode. I was cringing all the way at DH's lack of spy's skills, and how much attention she was drawing to herself during the auction. And WK's mourning over his loss of millions? This is why they will never become super spies the way SW is. He is able to compartmentalize his personal feelings and work and not let each affect the other so easily.

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Oops I didn't mean perfect combination to carry out a mission. I meant perfectly comedic for those 2. The ghost agents themselves were pretty cool, so it was a nice balance of comedy and spy action for me. They were terrible spies for sure, but I guess bearing in mind that they're just normal civilians, I'll cut them some slack. SW must have spent years training.

I actually don't mind the whole jumble of action/comedy in this episode, actually. It wasn't super thrilling or anything, but I did enjoy it.

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I thought Do-ha and Woon-kwang not being able to control their nerves and reactions was a normal thing. They're not supposed to be as cool and suave as Seol-woo, they're never even going to try to become real spies so why should they have the skills?! They were just helping out with the mission and I think they both did a good job, Seol-woo did get his wood-craving didn't he, so all is well!

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I really want to Seol-woo to be clear with his feelings, he makes all of these little confessions when we're least expecting them, and this only will confuse Do-ha (or me)! I agree that if he isn't planning to stay after his mission is over, he shouldn't be saying these stuff, fake or sincere, the hurt will be there, and I don't want Do-ha to be heartbroken again!

She is such a softie and it's this about her that I think will make her forgive Seol-woo soon and go back to falling for him! She said it's stupid to see someone who left you but then she did exactly the same with her dad, she went to see him after all he's done to her, so I think the same will happen with Seol-woo!

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He is confusing her (and me!!) for sure but at this point I wonder if I really want to care, or if I just want to close an eye and just enjoy the romance ship. The latter option is tempting.

She's a 100% softie... look at how worried she is for her father even though he's abandoned her his whole life! This is probably why she can't bring herself to be cold and emotionless toward SW, even if she tries. If anything, that should make him like her even more. But yes, I want him to actually have a plan in mind to face up to his feelings, because otherwise it wouldn't be fair to her if he keeps saying such things. I believe in you SW, so don't let me down!

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I like those little confessions because it feels like Seol-woo isn't holding himself back anymore, he may not try to be with her, but a confession of love is as sweet as the romance itself. Also, I like that Seol-woo is slowly letting his guard down and finally willing himself to feel normal human emotions and connecting with people as opposed to being lonely and indifferent in episode 1.

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I like them, too! The fact that they're so unexpected and rare makes them all the more precious to me. It shows his real self and he's actually such a sweetheart in those moments.

I just wish that he actually had a plan to stay, though. Because for now, while I'm enjoying all these little confessions, I still don't think he's going to stay, and that means I've to steel myself against his confessions. Sigh! ):

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DOHA IS ASKING HIS BODY AS A COLLATERAL AFTER THEY BROKE UP IF THAT IS NOT DESPERATE I DON`T KNOW WHAT IS, ITS WORSE THAN CRYING. SHE IS A PATHETIC WOMAN NOT A STRONG ONE.

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Woonkwang and Doha are the worst assistant spies ever. It's a good thing this isn't real life.

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They are the worst, aren't they? I was sitting at the edge of my seat, hoping they don't mess up the mission because of their lack of skills, and relieved they got through the mission by the skin of their teeth.

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Of course they are, they are just normal civilians and not trained for this. I'd be more surprised if they behave out of character. I'm just amazed the fact that they're willing to go along with it and did fantastic job securing the wood carving.

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..This show is funny, there’s no doubt, but what I see happening in this episode is a tonal conflict..

Completely agree with you, Murasakimi, it's neither. Just a part of everything mixed into one. Just like you said.

Highlight of the eps to me is when SW coached DH to act calm and normal, then told her that he always watch over her. My mind went "Gah! This drama should be renamed to 'Someone To Watch Over Me' instead..." and make it completely rom-com or melo.
Just a wistful thinking...^^

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When I watched this episode, I felt like I was watching an episode of SWDBS all over again. The tonal conflict was evident, and the episode didn't seem to know what genre it wanted to be. I would prefer it to be more of a rom com with less spy details. Frankly, the spy scenes were not that enjoyable and dragged the episode a little.

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This drama should be renamed to 'Someone To Watch Over Me' instead..."

Haha. That sounds great. Not only does Do-ha have Seol-woo to watch over her behind the scene, but also Woon-kwang right beside her. I was swooning when Woon-kwang walked down the stairs and naturally plopped his arm around Do-ha's shoulder when he walked by. Do-ha has such dependable support.

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Can the admin edit this post for me? My comment is being quoted as a whole when I only meant to quote the upper part. I already tried twice.

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OMG. murasakimi you said everything I was thinking about this show! Thank you. Show PICK A TONE for god's sake!

The wacky highjacks are funny but the logic (I know - I am asking WAY too much) is so convoluted. First this is the worst 'undercover' organization pretty much in EVER. (Does no one worry about discussing operations with Ghost agents in front of bank tellers and in the middle of a KFC?) I found myself irritated with the lack of seriousness Woon-Kwang was exhibiting in this very life & death situation. And was just confused way a top secret black market auction would cap it's bidding at $5M....? I was getting a migraine right along with Seol-Woo.

I did appreciate Do-Ha's nerves & Seol-Woo's 'kindness' in talking her down. And the mission to give Woon-Kwang his 5min with Mi-eun was fun.

Overall I really like all the main players and still am rooting for them - so heres hoping that ep 10 smoothes some of this out and we get higher stakes and smarter reactions to them.

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I try to suspend my logic for most dramas anyway because otherwise nothing would be enjoyable, hah!

Actually I don't think the auction is capped at $5M. They only put $5M in as the "deposit", so they didn't have anything more to spend, and had to stop Yamato from making a higher bid.

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yup, I agree with you, lezah. Also with the logic.
Hey, PHJ works like miracle - every time I see his face, my mind goes blank. Poof! There go logical and coherency discrepancies.

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Sometimes, I don't think this drama is very logical. We are supposed to think that there are high stakes involved in a certain act, but the way and place the characters discuss the act, like you mentioned, reduce the importance and significance of the act immediately and greatly. I get that WK is being all dramatic about blowing his millions at an auction, but I also feel that he is not taking the mission very seriously. Even DH. That's one reason the spy scenes in this episode fall flat. Only SW seems to be taking the mission very seriously because he is a spy, and that's supposed to be his job.

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The bromance was strong with this one! Seol-woo's 'hyung-nim' at the bank was delivered with sincerity but with such coercion that Woon-kwang didn't stand a chance ?

Woon-kwang's character has really grown on me over the past two episodes. There's just something really sexy about a man who is in charge! ? But his brief encounter with Mi-eun also reminds us that the egocentric, big-headed diva is only one facet of him - when it comes to matters of the heart, he's as serious and sentimental as they come.

Speaking of Mi-eun, she gives me the heebie jeebies. I know they say 'behind every great man...' and all, but seriously, hell have no cold-blooded ruthlessness as a woman who has been threatened with the removal of her son. I still haven't worked out what her real intentions are (does she really love her husband? or is she trying to set him up?) the threat of separation from her little boy makes her more dangerous than Seung-jae, the congressman and all of his cronies put together...

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Why did ME not leave SJ? He is such a cruel character, and the only reason I can think of is SJ's threat to remove her son from her if she ever misbehaves or disobeys his instructions.

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The brief meeting between WK and ME cleared that up for me actually. ME always insisted she left WK for money, but this episode confirms she left because she feared for WK's safety - she knew it was SJ who ordered his first on-set 'accident'. Poor SJ is trapped in a classic abusive relationship and stays out of fear for the people she cares about - her son and ultimately, WK.

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Sorry typo - poor ME is trapped in an abusive relationship, not SJ!

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I stopped watching after Episode 5 (or was it Episode 6?) and stuck to just reading the recaps. I wasn't connecting emotionally to any of the characters and I found the recaps much more interesting vs watching everything unfold in a confusing manner. The actors are great actors without a doubt, but as @murasakimi mentioned in this recap, the story and the characters seem to lack a punch sometimes.

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Thank you, murasakimi, for the recap.

Okay, did I read Seol-woo wrong? The last two episodes he was all about Do-ha and I was surprised to see him act that way for her, I thought he's fallen for her but in this episode he went back to being all about his mission! I can't seem to understand him, I don't know what he really feels for her! There are definitely some subtle expressions and gazes he gives her but I don't think that's enough for me to get what he's feeling (yes, I'm a little slow like that), was his "I'm always watching over you" another confession? (I swooned hard at that), is he not being abvious with his emotions and trying to keep his distance from her so he wouldn't hurt her again, because he'll have to leave once this mission is over? Is that the reason why he went to being Icy again? Or is it because they know his true identity and he stopped pretending to be in love with her? But how do I explain what happened in episode 8?

I loved the scene where Do-ha was nervous and how he was softly instructing her, to stand straight and hold her head up, and when he told her to turn and she found herself in the mirror, he smiled the cutest little smile, swooooon! The blue velvet suit looked really good on her, she really looked pretty there! I'm happy that Do-ha went back to being sassy with him, the contract scene was funny, he totally didn't expect it, but he sure was amused!

I really didn't want Do-ha to go visit her father in the prison, he got himself in this mess right after he left prison, he just doesn't know how to stay away from trouble, and even though she's trying to get him out, I didn't want her to see him, not after all he's done to her, I guess she can't abandon him like he does to her, and it breaks my heart for her!

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Woon-kwang was really funny this episode, I laughed at almost all scenes of his except for the one where he was with Mi-eun. The "why did I make money" scene was hilarious and the BGM helped a lot, the music shifts from cool to sad were genius, poor Woon-kwang, he kept trying to convince himself that he's doing it for a good cause, for Do-ha and for the country! The bank scene killed me, he was just waiting for something to go wrong so he wouldn't have to withdraw the money, LOL! He still hesitated when Seol-woo grabbed his hand and called him Hyung-nim, wasn't that what he always wanted, there you get your Hyung-nim, now, and it was also nice to see Song Joong-ki!

I liked that Ki-chul helped them out with the mission, so when he asked for someone's death he meant his fake death, right? He'll disappear just like that or will we get to see him again?

And the agent girl, again, really? IF YOU DIDN'T WANT FAKE ROMANCE, YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE ASKED!

And is it just me or my Oppa looked extremely handsome this episode? He always is but there was something different in this one, the hair maybe!

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Your oppa has looked handsome in every episode so far but somehow I really like him in that black cap. ;)

I kind of snorted a little when pretty ghost said "I want romance", and he straight-out went "okay", and she was all "Forget you and your fake romance". All these ghost agents, they sure know each other well, hah!

I don't think SW is really back to 100% icy. I think he's "testing the water" because he doesn't know how exactly she will react, and yes like you said, because he might not want her to be hurt when he leaves again. But I think he can't help himself from all those little moments where he tells her the truth. Those confession! They make me swoon!

And DH! She looked so, so pretty in that suit of hers. *u*

Honestly DH's dad would probably cause less trouble if he just stayed in prison, sigh.

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DoHa looked so, so pretty with those stupid bangs out of her face.

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MY Oppa looks handsome in every scene because he cannot not look handsome.

I thought he was head over heels in love with her last week, yet here we are again this episode, and we're back to square one. Sigh....why, Oppa, why?

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He does look handsome in all the scenes but I guess his hair is a little longer and I love this styled hair on him so much!

Right, we're back to me being confused and Oppa is really not helping!

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I want to be his hair gel.

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Really? Hair gel? Fine, I'll wash you off of his hair!

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So you'll be his shampoo? *snickers*

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When pretty ghost said, "I want romance", and he said "okay", I didn't like it at all. I know it's his job, but I didn't like it at all. It felt like he was betraying DH, and he said "Okay" so easily like he was ready to romance her in exchange.

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@YY May 20, 2017 at 11:00 PM:

Whew! I've survived the REBEL finale, and now can blab about MAN TO MAN. ;-)

Just got to watch the episode and am reading the recap and comments. I interpreted this scene as Seol-woo's special contribution to the cause. Woon-kwang manages to force himself to pony up US$5 million for the Black Auction -- and Seol-woo puts up his body, not once, but twice.

I love how Do-ha finagled him back into his Guard Kim role as collateral for the loan. What she doesn't know is that he owes pretty ghost unspecified romance in exchange for valuable intel. If that isn't taking one for the team, I don't know what is. ;-)

I enjoyed the episode. It's a mishmash of genres, but I'm okay with it. My disbelief has been levitating from the get-go. The bromantic stuff -- including that garish golden face mask -- was just what the doctor ordered.

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I honestly felt the same way...

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@pakalanapikake Hiya, Pakalana! So happy to see you here.

Chortling at the "taking one for the team".

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What she doesn't know is that he owes pretty ghost unspecified romance in exchange for valuable intel.

She actually changed her mind after all, she wanted normal deal rather than his fake affection.

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@maryxiah May 21, 2017 at 9:39 AM:

Thanks for clearing that up. Quid pro quo intelligence gathering is so much less skeevy. ;-)

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The scene at the bank teller's shows us why SW is the most capable spy to have lived. His ability to assess the situation on the spot and know the ways to manipulate people is one of his greatest feat. I like how he manipulates WK into parting with his millions by calling him hyung-nim. He might have been sincere and affectionate when he does that, but there is no doubt he is also manipulating him in a way.

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He was definitely manipulating him, he knew he was gonna get him with that word so he used it! I just love Woon-kwang's face at that and the hand grab just makes it all too funny!

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Can another wrist-grab be far behind?!

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No, you're not reading SW wrong - he's deliberately distancing himself from DH as he realises he's in too deep. I think the force of his own emotions/affections for DH when she was abducted in the past 2 episodes has shocked himself too, so he retreated. This is completely consistent for a character who always prided himself on being devoid of feelings after all. But his efforts are futile as it's too late for him anyway - DH has already broken down his defences and he can't help but care for her, silently watching over her and reminding her she's beautiful.

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Thanks for the recap @murasakimi. I agree with most of your analysis here. Nothing genre wise really worked as it should have in this episode. I think it should have just stuck with being an action drama. The romance is really not working for me. But even as an action drama it has faults, sigh.

Funny enough, Seung-jae doesn't work as a villain for Seol-woo et al. but more for his wife. The way how he showed her how he can take her can away from her was pretty diabolical.

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I prefer SJ's scenes with his wife as compared to his scenes as a master pulling the strings behind the scenes. His plans to take the wood carvings aren't that well thought out, to be honest. Only one person at the auction house to bid for the wood carving, really, when he has supposed the millions to spare at his disposal to bid for every item at the auction house? He is more of a threat when he faces his wife because he actually sets out to the things that he threatens, and we can feel the danger ME is in whenever he is around her.

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I just fell more for Kim SeolWoo when he said "I will always watch over you." DoHa couldnt have been unaffected by that?!
WoonKwang and DoHa acting all kinds of dorky at that auction kept me giggling through it all. Its really those hilarious moment contrasted by SeolWoo's one track mind on the mission that makes me love this drama.

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Yeah, me too. I love that contrast... it gives the show's humour something of an unpredictable edge.

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Totally excited WoonKwang: 2, 345, 678!

*gleeful smirk*

DoHa: *World's greatest exasperated stinkeye*

SeolWoo: *Speechless*

I love this trio. I really do. ❤❤❤❤❤

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Seol-woo: wth is he doing?

I was laughing my ass off at his childishness. XD

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UG... he's such a delight.
The fact that he knows he's being manipulated but lets himself get manipulated is even more delightful.

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The auction scene was more interesting because of all these humorous sides by WK and DH. Without them, the auction scene would have been very boring, and I would have also tuned out immediately.

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I agree.
And it's what makes Man to Man such a unique beast.

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ahahaha that scene was really cool, i keep repeating that scene tho, it seems epic af LOL

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The hijinks that these three get up to is what keeps me coming back for more! x

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I find it easier to enjoy the show when I'm not being judgmental of the flaws and dissect it. That being said, I was able to fully enjoy this episode when I first watched it because I was more focused on the OTP and every little crack in Seol-woo's ice cold facade.

I agree with your points, @murasakimi. The problem with the show is in its tonal conflict. I think because they established earlier on that this show isn't to be taken seriously, it's hard to calibrate expectations when they turn on thriller. The action scenes feel slick and exciting, but the thrill falls short and the bad guys aren't as effective as they clamored to be. I was hoping after last week's abduction case, they will raise the stake higher so we can be more invested in the central conflict and plot point.

Although it was frustrating to watch so much prodding to get Woon-kwang to push the damn button, I totally get where he was coming from. Except when it comes life threatening issue, Woon-kwang is really all talk. Even though he loves Do-ha to death, he isn't above self-sacrificing and bet his whole fortune on a national secret mission, so I get why it was so hard for him to be fully on board with the other two. When he screamed "My 5 million dollars," I was laughing my ass off, I felt bad and equally amused at his pain. If it wasn't for Do-ha, I don't think he would involve himself in the mission in the first place, so I found myself melting over Woon-kwang just the same in the episode.

Also, I love that Do-ha doesn't let Seol-woo off easy in this episode and take every chance to take a dig at his "disappearance". And I enjoyed watching Seol-woo squirmed and his evident discomfort at being subtly confronted. Though Seol-woo hasn't been clear with his feelings for Do-ha, I feel like he is finally willing to admit it to himself and is as honest to Do-ha about his motivation and actions, like when he told her he had to disappear for his and her safety, and that he was always watching over her. D'aww, the guy kept confessing his feeling, and the Do-ha didn't get it.

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I still don't think SW is interested in DH romantically, although SW is clearly affected by her, judging from the way he pasted tape and post-its over her eyes and face in an earlier episode. Perhaps his ability to compartmentalize his personal feelings and work, and that fact that he sees everything in a matter-of-fact sense makes it difficult for him to see that he is affected by her.

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He may not recognize his feelings at first, but I think he definitely realized that he is interested in Do-ha in a romantic way. The abduction case was the perfect setup to make him realize he couldn't afford to lose her and all the time he had bad premonition about her was just his intuition warning him off against her and his growing affection. I have no problem seeing that in this new episode.

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same here... :)

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I just tried to upvote your post twice @maryxiah - that's how much I agree with you ?

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This is where I think I part company with @muraskami and others. ;)

I am perfectly fine with the tonal shifts and the idiosyncratic nature of that has its own charm. To me the tongue-in-cheek aspects of the drama is always in the background especially with the antics of UG.
It's a spy comedy positioned within a tradition of spy comedies while playing homage to them.

I had a great time with the Black Auction. I liked the set up for it but the execution of it was even more fascinating. It was theatre masked as a serious economic forum and a rowdy sandbox for UG to play out his ongoing anxieties about the 5 million USD loan in comical fashion. On top of that we had SW like the Wizard of Oz behind the curtain backstage watching and directing a couple of amateurs hamming it up on the centres stage.
It was hilarious fun.

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Me too.

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Well said, @lilium! I didn't mind the tonal shifts, and in fact, this episode would have fallen pretty flat without them (the tense yet silly bidding scene was a personal highlight for me too)! I actually like that the show doesn't take itself too seriously and that we're fed some comic relief (and romance) every so often - they don't have to mutually exclusive.

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I also think that it's fairly consistent with the rest of the show thus far to have that kind of unexpected comic relief.

It's good to know that it isn't just me. I love the wicked sense of humour in this show too much I think.

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I loved the black auction part, too. I was on the edge of my seat and DH and WK were just hilarious. The way she clung onto the table in a desperate attempt to prevent being forcibly removed was so funny. I think it's working out very well, the blend of comedy, suspense, romance and action, my favourite parts are those intimate one-to-one scenes, where a simple line, a look, can move me to unexpected tears.

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Heh heh. Yeah, I love that moment too when she was clinging to that table for dear life and then she did this big harumph and declared she wasn't ashamed of her ignorance.
The whole auction sequence had me in stitches.

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Sorry I'm late for the party! It's hard to write on my phone. Thank you for the recaps @murasakimi.

Anyways I just love how this show keeps getting better. You mentioned that this episode is half attempts of the theee genre but I would like to disagree. I think their mash-up is doing well, to me at least. It was an exhalirating ride the whole time... feeling nervous and out of breath most of the time that they might get caught or something might go wrong and along the way I had my fair share of fun and laughter because of UK and SW. I don't think that the drama will be headed towards downright serious spy stuff but it doesn't downplay it to choose comedy. I think UK's reactions are rather normal for a person who just got to doing spy work as well as parting with his hard earned money.

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I have to agree with you with regards to the villains. I'm finding them more and more tiresome. I just don' care about them and I believe that we can even do an episode without them who hinders the completion of the mission. They don't do anything other than talk and their scheming doesn't seem to reverberate outside of the four walls they are having their meeting. I wish they could be uber villains who's make me fear for my favorite characters welfare.

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I agree with you, the mix of action/comedy is working out well for me. I don't dislike it, but maybe that's because I'm treating this as an easy watch. I switch it on for 1 hour, I sit here and smile uncontrollably, and then I come out at the end happier than before. And that's all I could ask for from a drama, really.

The villains are tiresome to me too. Why can't SJ get anything right unless ME helps him? He and Baek seem to flounder, whack their cronies around, and then use their money and influence to try to stop our heroes. Meh. Regarding ME, I can't seem to connect with her. I feel bad that she has to protect her son from her husband, which is probably why she's flip-flopping sides, but it doesn't make me like her any more.

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On the romance front... my only gripe is that there was no proper apologies form SW to DH. The best shot that we got was his admission on the reason of why he had to go away. But considering how SW is it seemed in line with his personality. Yet, I love and appreciated how he really cared for DH. Those little smiles when he's alone speaks volume. The way he looked at her in the monitor is so full of tenderness. When she was afraid that the NIS at the forum were looking at her, it was so sweet when he asked her to turn around and she saw herself. "When men keep staring at you, just ignore them" (can't recall the verbatim). Also when DH was about to come face to face with head of those who kidnapped her and was very afraid, I love how SW came to her and reassured her, his soft words calming her and the way he holds her hand much longer than necessary. It is not easy to get out from his shell of a ghost agent to be direct with his feelings to DH. He still thinks that he could endanger him.

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Lastly, ME had my sympathy but honestly, I'm just not liking her more and more. I not quite sure if there will be a reversal but right now she's trying to get her husband to push the issue with Jang and I'm not liking her here. Aside from his son, I really don't anymore what is her issues.

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and the fact that her Bff might be in danger too... she may have her reasons but yes I am not liking her here too...

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She 's obviously in an abusive relationship. Her husband threatened to take their son away from her. She's doing her best to win the trust of her husband for the sake of her son. I understand it, she's doing what she needs to survive.

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This was a frustrating episode for me. SW turns cold again and walks around with a face that looks like it's been carved out of a block of ice that's been frozen in the Antarctic for centuries. And in his alone moments, that ice thaws and he half-smiles and smirks.

The effect of this is it's making me conflicted; I think he looks so cool with that super cold face, but at the same time I wish he'd been less cold, more human. Is it because he's embarrassed that he's retreating behind that icy mask? Last week, I was saying he overdid the emotional part, but now that he's clamped down on that emotional side, I don't like it all all. "I am so conflicted," moans azzo, and here I am, feeling the same. Hi, azzo! How are you today? *giggles*

The moments I loved:

the double talk during the WK-ME exchange between SW and DH, and the way they look at each after they stop talking.

when ME turns and looks at WK with tears in her eyes...so sad I cried.

when he looks at her so tenderly, and says so softly, "Don't be nervous. I'm always watching you." *swoons*

when he reluctantly lets go of her hand after saying that.

when he talks her through her nervousness, tells her to do a 7.00 and she turns to face the mirror, and he says, smiling, "Don't bother if other men look at you."

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Oh, hi! *giggles back not knowing why*

YY, thank you for this, I feel so much better now that I have you conflicted and confused with me! I wish we get some kind of an explaination to why is Seol-woo acting the way he does and not just be left guessing! I like him being all icy cold but I don't get the shift in him from last week's episodes, he was so emotional there and I try to see that in him in this episode but I don't see it! I can't get him and like @chingu says it hurts my brain! I decided to stop being confused but I can't help it!

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*Giggling at you giggling back not knowing why*

It's a weird episode. It took a step back, when last week it took a leap forward.

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You kept laughing at me moaning about being conflicted, so this serves you right! *giggles at you giggling at me for not knowing why you giggled at the first place*

OMG, even giggling is getting confusing!

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*giggling at you giggling at me giggling at you not knowing why * I can do this all day....*giggling*

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Thanks for the quick recap Murasakimi! I too felt that this episode felt a little flat. Finally we had our trio working together on their first real dangerous mission, but it lacked excitement. It seems this episode's main focus was WK's $5 million, like that was the biggest thing throughout even during the auction, so all the other elements seemed to take a back seat. I wanted to see WK being a badass "agent", not crying about his money the whole hour. And I wanted to see a spunky Do-ha. I understand she could be nervous in her first "real" mission, so I didn't like her the show turned her into a weak person lacking confidence. I understand it was so that SW can be her confidence, but because of that it felt forced. They had to weaken her in order for him to step up, while really they should have showed them as working together matching each other. Maybe next mission? To show some character or relationship growth?

I was also a bit lost in the logic of this mission. Kichul connected the dots before as to who agent K is, including the fact that he is WK's bodyguard and was staying at Cha Do-ha' house to protect her. I thought he had relayed that information to SJ/Baek. So wouldn't it raise questions to see Do-ha and WK at the auction?! Everyone had a photo of SW and was looking for him but WK and Do-ha were in plain sight, even garnering intentions for their outbursts. Either Kichul was all the brains, or there was a memory loss somewhere. The NIS agent/Baek guy was part of Do-ha's kidnapping which was related to the black auction ring... hello?! Isn't it a little suspicious that she is at the auction?! It's like they had been exposed but suddenly noone seemed to remember how they are connected to agent K! Maybe it's been explained in episode 10 but I have not watched it yet. (Right after this! I like to leave my comment without having seen the next episode so as to not have the urge to spoil and stay true to the episode recapped).

I also felt WK and ME's meeting felt out of place...I understand it served as a "practice round " for our trio, but not sure why it had to be inserted now, in this episode.

So yes, I felt this episode felt a little off. But of course, as much as there were questionable events, there were also so nice ones! I loved how SW told Do-ha to look at 7 o'clock...that was very nicely done! And I liked that he repeatededly said "I'm watching you, I'll cover/protect you. That was sincere. I liked Sharon and Dir Jang's conversation. And I liked how Kichul and SW worked together. I too am not sure Kichul is actually dead, although how he would leave the scene alive and unnoticed I have no idea. I guess maybe it's another ghost agent trick!

I understand SW's spy life, but felt a bit sad for him as it seemed everyone in this episode just wanted something from him. I know he is not blameless, and has used people to get the job done, but has he himself ever put a...

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it looks like my comment was truncated...too long? Sorry! To finish, I was saying has he himself ever put a condition in order to do something? I understand needing collateral for the loan, but not WK's further condition at the bank. And the lady accomplice, romance for her valuable info? And everytime SW says yes. He has to agree for his mission. As nothing is more important than his mission, that's who/what he is. Not his body, not his feelings..I am waiting for the day SW the man will become more important than his mission. His love, his feelings, his life. Maybe Man to Man is really "Agent K to SW the man"...like looking in the mirror, both look the same but in reverse...

Ok on to episode 10!

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I was loving this drama but I can't hide my disappointment because there was so much potential that has gone unexplored/wasted. The show has lost its steam in the middle. I felt the same was about DEscendents of the sun( it list its stream after ep 10 or so).
I want to elaborate further. These shows that are about a cool male lead and his romance angle. It's why I watch k dramas.
park hae Jin was just so awesome and him being trapped in the identity of guard Kim was fantastic. Sure the bronancd with soon kwang was great. So the show needed to ride on these elements.
I am left wanting more.....
And the romance is also not explored to its potential. Agent k getting jealous...doing crazy things... his funny faces... the contrast betwee the spy world and the movie world played out to comedic effect....
Do-ha is on par with him on some levels but so not on other levels...that should have been explored as the two get more drawn to each other to the point they decide they want to be together
I'm left wanting more.....

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YES! Potential! Instead of focusing on the poorly developed wood carving plot device, I wish they have taken more time to properly develop the romance and bromance, so much potential hijinks, and I wanted more flirting, more jealousy and more of previous trio dynamic. I guess I can't complain much since the truth being out in the open is much better for me, but I personally am more interested in the romance. I like the slow cracking of Seol-woo's shell, but at the same time, I don't like the feelings of second-guessing him sometimes. Not to say I haven't been enjoying the show, because I do, but I feel like some parts could be better.

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YES girl, let him suffer a bit. Now I can ship you two with all my heart.
(The mirror-part was so jghfkj-good)

And Woon-Kwang was hilarious (as usual) with his 5 million. I think I love his character the most in this show.

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I dunno..... At first, the story line was interesting but it slowly it's losing focus... the characters are off beat...I can't feel any chemistry with the female lead and PHJ.... also her the part of her constant nag/doubt to PHJ is annoying....hopefully the scriptwriter can improve...so I'm staying tuned ?
Btw, Big Boss cameo was the best

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I'm watching this for Mieun and Woonkwang's sad story. And I can't wait when they finally could be reunited T_T

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Best part indeed, Big Boss JOONGKI!

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Thank you for the recap Murasakimi :)

UG oppa is so hilarious in this episode hhahahha.. Well he always makes me laugh :D.. Thanks Do Ha for making Kim Guard suffer a bit. Don't let him off the hook easily after breaking your heart.

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Woon Kwang is my favorite character here. He's hilarious yet at the same time so loving. He truly cares about Seol Woo as his brother, though less than Do Ha who he treats as his Blood sister.
Several episode before, when Do Ha intefers with Woon Kwang's dating, I kinda stepped back a bit, wondering why the show portraits her like a sasaeng fan like that? However, looking back now, it seems like she only wants to protect him from scandals, and she knows he's not serious, even the actress is scandalous, as a strict manager, and as a powerful younger sister. Them being cool at her having in a relationship with Guard Kim, regardless what they try to act up (like he practices "i love u" right to her face) for others to see, really wins me over.

Seol Woo is definitely not my fav spy, but Park Bye Jin is swoony as always, I can not think straight seeing him, so plot holes, I forgive you.

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Sorry it is Park Hye Jin, autocorrect error! T^T

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I am just gonna type as I watch this and read the recap so this will be long....

BUT OMG HER FACE WHEN HE SAID "I will lend it to you" BHAHAHAH But seriously their relationship is goals. I want a big brother like him who would help me like that. I don't necessarily mean I want some rich guy to be a big bro to me but just someone who would help me the way that Woon Kwang helps Do Ha. It is legit the most precious thing ever. I honestly hope this doesn't turn into a love triangle cause I love their relationship the way it is. Supporting one another and being a pillar that the other can lean on. gosh I am not even 5 mins through and I have already written this much.... I apologise in advance.

omg... Forfeit your body to us. BHAHAHAHHAH and gosh the bit with "Hyungnim" I feel soo bad for Woon Kwang that is what he has been waiting to hear for so long now!

Omg that moment with the mirror that was beyond adorable and I don't think I can deal with the cuteness. I WANT HIM TO KNOW HIS FEELINGS ALREADY IT IS MAKING ME ANNOYED!!! Okay there is too much to talk about but can I jsut say these three together is just freaking amazing XD

Okay lol yeah my main point for this episode is what I said for the start. their relationship is legit goals

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Gosh, I'm finally catching up! I had some exams and had limited time, so I chose to read mystery queen and suspicious partner instead of this. Now I'm lagging behind....

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