Man of Will (2017) Plot Summary Explained

In 1896, in the town of Chihapo (now part of modern North Korea), Kim Chang-soo, portrayed by Cho Jin-woong, takes a drastic step by murdering a Japanese man whom he suspects of being involved in the assassination of Empress Myeongseong. Before departing from the scene of his crime, he leaves a confession note that reveals his motives.

Following this act, Kim is apprehended and faces trial, ultimately being transferred to a prison in Incheon. There, he discovers a grim reality: many inmates are uneducated and impoverished, with numerous individuals wrongfully convicted due to their inability to advocate for themselves. Seizing this opportunity for change, Kim begins to educate his fellow prisoners as well as some of the prison staff, teaching them how to read and write. His efforts not only empower the inmates, helping them clear their wrongful charges, but they also assist the staff in obtaining crucial resources from the authorities. This initiative earns Kim a newfound reputation as a leader and educator.

As circumstances evolve, Kim and his companions find themselves forced to work on the construction of some of Korea's earliest railway lines. The conditions are harsh and many suffer injuries during this labor. Amidst this chaos, Kim's educational endeavors attract the ire of Kang Hyung-sik, played by Song Seung-heon, the prison director who harbors pro-Japanese sentiments. Kang resorts to violence, mercilessly beating both prisoners and staff. However, when he attempts to inflict punishment on Kim, he faces resistance from those who have come to respect and support Kim.

Meanwhile, pressure mounts from Japanese consular agents for the Korean government to execute Kim. The date of his execution draws near, and despite the staff's reluctance, they are compelled to comply with orders. Just as Kim is about to be hanged, an urgent dispatch arrives from Gojong of Joseon, halting the execution and saving Kim's life. This is prompted by a petition from the prisoners and staff, who express gratitude for his teaching efforts and plead for his life. Gojong acknowledges Kim's endeavors by sending him a letter of gratitude for his attempts to avenge the Empress's death.

On March 19, 1898, Kim, alongside several comrades, successfully escapes from prison, aided by the guards who turn a blind eye. Kang, enraged by this turn of events, punishes the staff for their failure to prevent the escape. However, fate takes another twist when the same Joseon official who had previously delivered the order to save Kim confronts Kang with evidence of his corrupt activities, leading to Kang's arrest.

In the concluding scene, a significant transformation occurs as Kim walks away from prison. This change in his appearance and demeanor symbolizes his evolution from just Kim Chang-soo into the activist known as Kim Gu, marking the beginning of his journey as a prominent figure in Korea's fight for independence.