Do You See Seoul? 2008

Present-day dream of a Sindo trip

Gil-su, now a teacher in Seoul, faces the approach of summer vacation and longs to take his students on a trip to his homeland, Sindo. He encounters resistance from skeptical parents and weighs the risks of such an expedition. With a stubborn resolve, he decides to embark on the journey himself, using the idea as a bridge to memories of his childhood and his cherished teacher.

Childhood on the island of Sindo

The narrative shifts to 1976, where young Gil-su shoulders care for his little sister while his father struggles with alcoholism and his mother has left the family seeking a better life in Seoul. The island's daily life is fragile, shadowed by hardship and absence. Gil-su begins to take on responsibilities that will shape his future.

The island school and Eun-yong, the caring teacher

On the island, Eun-yong is the caring teacher and the steady center of the children's world. She offers warmth and guidance to the kids, earning their trust despite the isolation of the island. Her presence frames the children's aspirations, including the possibility of visiting Seoul.

A visit to Seoul proposed by a cookie factory

A Seoul cookie factory invites the island children to visit, igniting a burst of excitement among the youngsters. The prospect of seeing the city—and perhaps riding a real bicycle—becomes a powerful lure. The invitation also underscores the socioeconomic contrast between the island and the metropolis.

Parental concerns and resistance

Despite the initial enthusiasm, many parents worry about money and the potential negative influence of city life on their children. Their opposition creates a significant obstacle to the trip. The kids, however, are determined to prove they can handle the journey with the help of their teacher.

Children band together to fund the trip

Driven by hope, the kids band together to earn the funds needed for the trip, pooling their modest resources and taking on small tasks around the island. Eun-yong offers encouragement, guiding their plan and teaching them about responsibility. The effort reinforces the bond between classmates and their mentor.

Gil-su's personal motive: finding his mom

For Gil-su, the journey to Seoul also carries a personal longing: the wish to find his mother who left when he was young. The trip becomes a search for family as well as adventure. The emotional stake adds weight to the boys' and girls' preparations.

The parents finally agree to let them go

After a series of challenges and assurances, the parents consent to the trip, allowing the children to travel to Seoul. The plan moves forward despite lingering fears about safety and finances. The headstrong enthusiasm of the kids, reinforced by Eun-yong's support, carries the moment.

Departure: first-ever train ride to Seoul

The children set off on their journey to Seoul by train, marking a rite of passage from island life to the bustle of the city. The ride is filled with curious anticipation and the sounds of stations and landscapes rushing by. For many, it is the first time stepping foot on a train and leaving the island behind.

Lost in the big city

The journey does not go as planned when Gil-su, his sister, and their friend Yoon-bok become separated and lost in Seoul. The situation creates serious challenges for their dedicated teacher, who must improvise to keep the children safe and navigate the unfamiliar urban maze. Tension rises as hope and panic collide in the crowded streets.

The teacher's tough duties in the city

As the search unfolds, the teacher faces serious challenges while trying to keep the trio safe and guide them back toward safety. He leverages his resolve, patience, and the lessons Eun-yong taught on the island to navigate the crisis. The episode tests his limits and underlines the responsibilities that shaped him.