The Aftermath of Ruin
The scandal had destroyed Kang Seonwoo's chance at fame, but it had also birthed something far more dangerous.
Alone in a small, dimly lit apartment far from the glittering stages he once dreamed of, he shed the remnants of his former self like a second skin.
No longer the hopeful boy, he was reborn as K — a shadow forged in fire, pain, and ruthless determination.
Learning the Rules of the Game
K knew the entertainment industry's brightest lights hid the darkest shadows.
His first steps were not on stages, but in back rooms, dark alleys, and whispered conversations.
He learned to gather information — secrets of executives, scandals of idols, the ambitions and fears that controlled careers.
Building the Network
With a sharp mind and cold heart, K began to build a network — a web of favors, debts, and leverage.
He befriended those discarded by the industry, trainees overlooked or betrayed, and low-level insiders hungry for change.
In exchange, he offered protection, opportunity, and above all — power.
The First Strike
Years after his downfall, K orchestrated his first major move — the exposure of a corrupt executive whose greed and betrayal had once cost him everything.
Using carefully leaked documents, manipulated recordings, and anonymous tips, K brought the executive's empire crashing down.
The industry trembled.
Whispers of a Ghost
Rumors spread of a shadowy figure manipulating events behind the scenes — a man who wielded information like a weapon, striking without warning.
K's legend grew quietly, a ghost in the machine.
The Cost of Power
But the climb was lonely.
K sacrificed friendships, severed ties, and hardened his heart against betrayal.
The man who once longed for fame now craved control — and was willing to pay any price.
An Unexpected Encounter
During one of his secretive meetings, K crossed paths with a young, raw trainee — Jiho.
The boy's talent was undeniable, but so was his vulnerability.
K saw a reflection of his younger self, a project with the potential to reshape the industry.
A New Game Begins
Choosing to mentor Jiho was not an act of kindness but a calculated move.
Together, they would challenge the corrupt system, rewrite the rules, and ascend.
But the shadows held many dangers — and not all enemies were visible.