Lookism: Seoul Underground Chronicles: Shadow of the White Ashes

Choi Seong-jae's office, occupying an entire floor in one of Seoul's tallest skyscrapers, was the epitome of understated luxury. The panoramic windows offered a view of the city that lay at his feet.

Today, Sung-jae was dressed in an impeccably cut Brioni suit that emphasized his slender figure. A white Egyptian cut shirt, discreet silk ties and lacquered Berluti shoes completed his look.

On his wrist was a Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon watch, a testament to his impeccable taste and financial wealth. Time is a precious resource, and Son Jae was equally so.

On the table was the latest model of MacBook Pro, and next to it were two phones. One was a Vertu Constellation, for confidential conversations, and the other was a secure Blackphone, for privacy.

"Efficiency is the key to success," Choi Sung-jae thought as he looked over the financial reports. - "Every detail must run like clockwork, generating profits and building power."

A conference with Sigum's shareholders was about to start soon. These were people who trusted him with their money and expected to make a profit.

- Sigum shareholders:

o Eun Byul Park: Representative of the Park family, owner of a large chain and hotels. Owned 20% of the shares. She was a smart, ambitious and ruthless businesswoman who always got her way.

o Choi Hyun-joon: Grandson of the founder of the Daewoo construction empire who lost control of the company. Owns 10% of the shares. He was smart but too conservative and not willing to take risks.

o Lee Yoon Seok: Representative of the Lee clan, which controls the media industry. Owns 10% of the shares. He cared about image and sought power.

Shareholders arrived one by one. They healthy with Choi Sung-jae, adhering to forms of courtesy. Their gazes read respect, interest, and... apprehension.

"Choi Sung Jae is an enigma," Park Eun Byul thought, "He's smart, ambitious, but too secretive. I don't know what to expect from him.

"He's too young and hot," Choi Hyun Joong thought, "I'm afraid he might do something stupid."

'He can be good for our family,' Lee Yoon Seok thought, 'But we need to keep him under control.'"

The conference began. Choi Sung Jae presented a report of achievements and losses, and talked about new projects and future plans.

"As you can see," he said, "the companies are growing and developing. We are increasing our profits and expanding our influence. But I want you to know that this is only the beginning. We have much more ambitious plans."

"We've heard about your ties to the underworld," Park Eun Byul said. - "We are concerned about that. We don't want our company to be associated with dirty deeds."

Choi Sung-jae grinned: "I understand your concerns. But I want to assure you that Sigum is running a legitimate business. And what I do in my free time is my own business. It's all to increase your income."

"I hope you don't drag us into your games," Lee Yoon Seok said. - "Our family's reputation is important to us."

Choi Sung Jae happened, "I will do my best to protect the interests of Sigum and its shareholders. I am willing to go to any lengths to achieve my goals.

At the end of the meeting, Park Eun Byul approached Choi Sung Jae.

"I am impressed with your results," she said. - "You are a talented businessman. I think we can be good leaders."

She handed him an invitation to a charity gala where Korea's most influential people will be in attendance.

"I will be happy to see you there," Park Eun Byul said, smiling. - "It's a great opportunity to expand ties."

Choi Seong-jae accepted the invitation. He realized that this evening could change his life.

After taking care of the shareholders, Choi Sung-Jae returned to his office and sat at his desk.

"Power is a game," he thought. - "I intend to win this game. I will use all means to achieve my goal. And no one will be able to stop me."