Misaeng: Incomplete Life (2014) - Drama TV Series, Korea

Jang Geu-rae, a young man with a passion for baduk (Go), faces an uncertain future after failing to turn his hobby into a career. With limited qualifications, he lands an internship at One International, a prestigious trading company. Entering the corporate world, he feels like a fish out of water, struggling to adapt to the unfamiliar environment.

As an intern, Geu-rae faces skepticism and disdain from his colleagues, who doubt his abilities and belittle his lack of formal education. In a cutthroat corporate culture, he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

Amidst this challenging landscape, Geu-rae finds solace in an unexpected friendship with Ahn Young-yi, a fellow intern who faces her own struggles as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Together, they navigate the complexities of office life and support each other through the ups and downs.

Geu-rae's saving grace comes in the form of Manager Oh Sang-shik, a seasoned employee known for his gruff demeanor. However, beneath the tough exterior, Sang-shik recognizes Geu-rae's potential and becomes his mentor. He teaches Geu-rae the intricacies of the trading business and encourages him to overcome his insecurities.

Through trials and tribulations, Geu-rae learns valuable lessons about teamwork, communication, and resilience. As he gains practical knowledge, he begins to earn the respect of his colleagues, gradually bridging the gap between his humble beginnings and the high-stakes world of business.

Yet, Geu-rae's journey is far from smooth sailing. He faces formidable challenges, including a risky trade deal that could make or break his career. Doubt creeps in once more, and Geu-rae finds himself torn between following his instincts or bowing to pressure from superiors.

Despite the odds, Geu-rae's determination remains unwavering. He recalls the strategic thinking he honed through baduk, applying it to the complexities of the business world. With courage and conviction, he makes a bold decision that surprises even his harshest critics.

Geu-rae's tenacity and skill begin to earn him recognition, even from the company's CEO. His transformation from an uncertain intern to a competent and reliable employee inspires those around him, fostering a newfound camaraderie within the team.

As Geu-rae continues to grow, he finds strength in the support of his colleagues. The once-hostile environment begins to thaw as they recognize the value of diversity and unconventional thinking. Geu-rae's unique perspective, shaped by his baduk background, proves to be an asset rather than a liability.

Geu-rae's newfound confidence and camaraderie within the team lead to remarkable collaborations and successful business ventures. As his reputation grows, he gains the respect of even the most skeptical colleagues, transforming into a valuable asset to One International.

However, Geu-rae's success doesn't come without challenges. Jeong Gi-joon, a competitive and ambitious colleague, becomes envious of Geu-rae's achievements. Gi-joon sees Geu-rae as a threat to his own career aspirations and begins to undermine him at every opportunity.

As the tension between Geu-rae and Gi-joon escalates, it puts a strain on the entire team's dynamics. Geu-rae finds himself facing a critical test of his character. He must choose between succumbing to the pressure and retreating or confronting the situation head-on.

With the support of his friends, including Young-yi and Manager Oh, Geu-rae decides to address the conflict directly. He attempts to find common ground with Gi-joon, understanding that cooperation and teamwork are essential for the team's success.

Their reconciliation is far from easy, but Geu-rae's sincerity and willingness to see beyond personal rivalries gradually break down the barriers. Together, they realize that their differences can be a source of strength, and they begin to collaborate on projects that benefit both of them.

Geu-rae's diplomatic approach to conflict resolution earns him admiration not just from his colleagues but also from higher-ups within the company. His ability to build bridges and foster unity makes him an exemplar of effective leadership.

As Geu-rae's journey continues, he faces new challenges, including navigating complex business negotiations and dealing with the pressures of competition. Each obstacle serves as a stepping stone, honing his skills and refining his character.

One day, Geu-rae comes across a familiar face from his past. It is Baek Ki-woong, a talented baduk player who once defeated him in a competition. Ki-woong, now a successful businessman, offers Geu-rae an opportunity to work with his company on an ambitious project.

This unexpected encounter brings Geu-rae full circle, reminding him of his baduk roots and the resilience he gained from the game. Grateful for the lessons learned from Manager Oh and the experiences at One International, Geu-rae declines Ki-woong's offer, choosing to remain loyal to the team that supported him through thick and thin.

As Geu-rae's reputation continues to soar, he is presented with a life-changing opportunity—to be promoted as an official employee of One International. The promotion would solidify his position within the company, granting him the stability and recognition he has long desired.

However, this momentous decision puts Geu-rae at a crossroads. The path of certainty and stability beckons, but so does the unknown and the possibility of even greater challenges beyond the corporate world. Reflecting on his journey, Geu-rae contemplates the essence of a fulfilling life and the value of taking risks.

Ultimately, Geu-rae chooses the less predictable path—a path that embodies the spirit of his incomplete life. He decides to take a leap of faith, embracing the uncertainty and the limitless possibilities beyond the corporate ladder.

With unwavering determination, Geu-rae leaves One International to embark on a new adventure. He finds the courage to follow his dreams, forever cherishing the experiences and relationships he built along the way.

As Geu-rae steps into the unknown, he carries with him the wisdom, resilience, and camaraderie that defined his time at One International. His journey continues, each step an ode to the beauty of an incomplete life—a life shaped by choices, challenges, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence.