The Himalayas

During a climb up Kangchenjunga, Um Hong-gil saves Park Moo-taek and his friend Park Jeong-Bok from a life-threatening situation. He warns them never to climb mountains again. The incident sets a cautionary tone that echoes through his career and future choices.

A few days after Kangchenjunga, Hong-gil lands a new project and needs crew members. Two young climbers push to join, despite his initial warnings. He ultimately agrees, recognizing their determination and potential, and the recruitment begins.

On early expeditions, Hong-gil and Moo-taek form a close friendship as they tackle their first mountains together. They build trust through shared risks, training, and mutual respect. This partnership becomes the foundation of the team in the years to come.

Over time, Hong-gil’s legs fail him and he can no longer climb beyond step 14. This setback effectively ends his active climbing, forcing Moo-taek to rise as the new leader. The shift reshapes team dynamics and the use of his techniques.

Moo-taek is appointed head of a new team and trains using Hong-gil’s proven methods. While Moo-taek leads, Hong-gil remains a mentor in spirit and technique. Their evolving roles show a bridge between two generations of climbers.

During a mission, Moo-taek dies along with one other climber, and the friend who had gone to search for them dies crying beside Moo-taek. The losses underscore the peril of high-altitude exploration and test the team's resolve. The tragedy fuels the determination to honor Moo-taek's memory.

A few days before the anniversary, Hong-gil is asked in a lecture who the best climber is and he replies that it was Moo-taek’s friend who would not let his comrade die alone. The remark reframes his view of the fallen and their loyalty. It sets in motion a personal vow to locate Moo-taek’s body.

Following the lecture, Hong-gil gathers his old crew and sets out to find Moo-taek’s body. The expedition becomes a tribute as much as a search. They intend to retrieve the remains with dignity and respect.

The team treks into remote mountains to locate Moo-taek’s body. When they find him, the weight of the body surprises them, so they place stones on him and remove the chain bearing a message for Moo-taek’s wife. The act honors his memory and preserves the personal note.

After recovering the body, Hong-gil climbs the Level 16 mountain with his bad legs, reflecting that Moo-taek was his legs and the others his lungs and heart. The ascent becomes a symbolic rebirth and dedication to his fallen friend and teammate.

Um Hong-gil and his expedition team go to the Himalayas to search for Park Moo-taek’s body. The journey blends physical endurance with emotional commitment to a friend. The expedition continues to honor their shared history and resolve.

From that point, the expedition remains focused on locating Moo-taek’s body, with the Himalayas serving as the ongoing stage for their tribute and pursuit. The memories of fallen comrades continue to guide their future climbs.