Original subtitles

1996

Since gold is the best color,

this one!

Excuse me,

can I get the pink one instead?

Why?

Um,

I think my teacher will like the pink one better.

Really...

Dear Ms. Kim, Hello! It's Myung-eun.

I'm writing this letter because I have a secret I want only you to know.

Instead of having student- teacher meetings in the classroom,

what about in your office? Because...

THE HILL OF SECRETS

Delicious!

It's good, isn't it? What do you mean?

It's too much work!

I'd much rather eat Gopchang and rice.

Your father and I have nothing in common.

What? You just don't know good food.

All you know is how to spend money!

Your father doesn't know how to save a single penny.

There was never much food on the table, but So-yeon never complained...

Let's call and donate some.

Very funny.

Don't you feel bad for them?

We should help. Hey.

Your own mother is dying out there trying to make money all day long.

Look at my hands!

Look!

Since long before you two were born,

we've had a hard time. Yeah.

We worked our asses off to get where we are.

If those people worked as hard as us, just imagine!

Fancy restaurants and delicious food every single day.

They just don't try hard enough.

Anyway,

you'll never see me asking anyone for money.

And there's no such thing as Jesus or God.

Just rely on yourself, okay?

Never let anyone try to take you to church.

It's all just to get you to give them money.

Let me do it for you.

Watch carefully.

Cut this part right here.

Then...

Just like this. Easy, right?

Take the meat right out.

Dad, what's our family motto?

Why?

It's for school.

We don't have one.

Yes we do.

Give nothing, take nothing.

That's our motto.

Into the woods, let's go

Into the woods, let's go

To collect moon pieces, let's go

To collect moon pieces, let's go

The moon breaks into fireflies on a moonless night

The moon breaks into fireflies on a moonless night

Into the woods, let's go

Into the woods, let's go

To collect moon pieces, let's go

To collect moon pieces, let's go

Now, who wants to recite it?

Good job!

Oh, Ms. Kim.

I heard the bus broke down. Are you okay?

What?

Oh, yes. I'm okay.

Good.

We have student-teacher meetings today, right?

Yes, ma'am.

Let's start one by one, in alphabetical order.

What does your father do?

He works at a publishing company in Seoul.

That's why you like to read. Yes.

What about your mother?

A housewife.

Do you have any siblings?

I have an older brother and sister. I see.

So I can call this number in case of an emergency?

Yes, ma'am.

Okay, Yu-na. I think we're done.

Ms. Kim.

Yes?

Can I go to the nurse office?

Why?

I have a headache.

Really? You don't look too sick.

Then let's have a meeting first.

Do you have any siblings?

I have an older brother in grade 6 class 3.

What do your parents do?

My dad...

works at a company.

What company?

Um...

A paper company.

Paper?

Uh... yes...

He makes white paper,

colored paper,

paper for books and notebooks...

So Kyung-soo's father makes books with that paper.

And your mother?

She's a very normal housewife.

Gimbap again?

I know, I'm sick of it too.

Is anyone going to run for class president?

No, Kyung-soo's going to win anyways. Yeah.

Should I run for vice president?

Then I want to be vice secretary!

So you've made up your mind.

Uncle Jin-woo!

Fine, you can have the house.

My mom's dead now, so we're no longer a family, right?

Please don't ask for anything else or try to contact me again.

Come on, Sis. And you...

Stop coming to me for money.

Sell the house or something.

I don't care.

Now leave. I'm working.

Let's go.

Oh, hello.

What is it again?

I've done more than enough for people I don't share a drop of blood with.

Why are people so quick to betray when it comes to money?

They refuse to let us have the house.

So I told them to take it, and that we're done with them.

Are you here for money, too?

No...

Can you buy me clothes?

What's wrong with Myung-eun?

Who knows.

She's throwing a fit because I won't buy her clothes.

Buy her clothes!

She has a closet full at home!

They're all hand-me-downs!

It fits perfect.

I like that one.

You always pick tacky clothes.

It's not tacky! It's cute.

Your grandma always bought tacky clothes for you.

This one or that other one looks best.

Let me see.

But that one's the prettiest...

Numerous promises, but how many were actually kept?

Have previous class presidents really changed anything?

I have never been a board member.

But I have seen countless members for years.

Talking the talk,

looking pretty for the camera,

but have you seen anyone actually walk the walk?

Candidates always make promises,

but why are those never kept once they get elected?

Reason 1, too many promises are made.

Reason 2, all they want is popularity,

not the responsibilities of class president.

Instead of multiple promises I can't keep,

here's a single promise I vow to keep.

Secret Letters

I will install this secret mail box in our classroom.

You can write in secrets you couldn't share,

and the teacher and I will discuss together

ways to help solve your issues.

I promise to make sure no one is left behind,

creating a class full of love and peace.

Wow, not bad!

Really?

I practiced a lot, but I still almost messed up.

I woke up at 6am!

Dad!

Dad! I got elected class president.

You did?

Come again! I will, thank you.

Mom, I got elected class president.

Why?

Do you have any idea how tiring that is?

I'll have to go to your school regularly,

go for every event and give your teacher presents.

It means the mom has more work to do.

That's for moms who aren't busy.

Why did they give you that position?

I was voted in.

The straight- A student lost,

and the previous president lost, too.

It's not like anyone can be class president.

Anyway,

tell your teacher you forfeit since your mom's too busy.

I can't forfeit!

I'm going to do it.

Yeah! Why throw away the crown?

People like us are too busy for crowns.

Says who? You can do anything with the right mindset.

Go clean your room.

You better turn it down!

And know your place!

Attention!

At ease.

Attention!

Bow to the teacher.

Bye, Ms. Kim!

Bye guys.

Lots of letters today?

Yes.

Yeah? Shall we read them together?

Sure.

There are so many!

Let's see...

Everyone's birthday should be celebrated together.

I'll check everyone's birthday tomorrow!

I already have the list, so...

Let's post it over there.

Okay. Then we can do...

a song and... a card?

Let's do a poster.

Great! A song and a birthday poster!

Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday to you

Since not many of us go to the library,

we should each bring a book from home

and have our own little library in the classroom.

No! Don't take a picture of me like this!

I'll make sure you look cute!

Our class should make a photo album full of memories.

I took it at the right moment!

These two should be next to each other.

Can you lower this side?

How's this? That side, too.

Looks great!

I keep messing up on my turn!

Hey, Ha-yoon! Come join us!

Hop right in this spot,

with one foot.

You hit me first!

No, you did! Guys, enough!

Myung-eun, Yu-na did nothing wrong.

You started it! You hit me first!

Don't encourage them.

Seo-hyun saw you! No!

Guys, listen to each other!

Self-Study Time

Where's your teacher?

She went to use the copy machine.

We should be pen pals with kids in different countries.

Yeah,

what a wonderful idea!

But... What about the language?

We can have extracurricular classes for writing letters.

The kids don't like studying English,

but if they study by writing letters,

they can learn in a fun and exciting way!

It's two birds with one stone!

Yes!

It'd be great for the kids to make international friends.

Is this all your idea, Ms. Kim?

Yes, sir...

No wonder you're always late for work!

Well, it's a very good idea.

How about we each exchange items we don't need?

Your classmates seem to really like you.

I think it's all thanks to the secret mailbox.

Right.

Don't you get tired of going home later than your friends?

No, it's fun.

And I feel proud.

That's good to hear.

Oh yeah, are your parents still not able to come for a parents meeting?

Yes, um...

My grandma's still sick...

So they're busy taking care of her.

Oh, I see.

5. Should consider the couch facing the garden.

6. Picture window & front yard...

Look.

Doesn't it look luxurious?

I'm going to live here one day.

People can say all they want now.

"Why save up? Buy some new clothes!"

They'll shut up later.

We'll see.

Tying your hair with rubber bands isn't good.

It's fine.

It's not fine...

Why won't you wear the headband I bought for you?

The lights are too bright at the market.

This is the best burger.

It's so good!

Mom. Enjoy your burger.

Then a different machine breaks it into smaller pieces.

So you make it short first, Yes.

and break it even smaller?Yeah.

How's that possible?

Then you can save the planet.

But I think it'll cost a lot.

How much do you think?

1,000,000... no, 2,000,000 won!

Do you have 2,000,000 won?

This won't be easy to do. Yeah...

you should work on this. Okay.

Then let me know! Yes, ma'am.

Everyone! Go back to your seat.

Kwang-ho, that means you too.

Sit down!

Class President?

Attention.

At ease.

Attention.

Bow to the teacher.

Good- bye, Ms. Kim!

Bye!

No one forced you to be class president.

Who asked you?

Leave me alone!

How many people are in your class?

I'll do it.

You know you'll have to keep sending more.

I'll do it.

Here, eat this.

Alright.

Our class president's parents graciously bought us some snacks.

Groups 1 and 4 come up first and take 2 each.

Bananas make my tummy hurt...

It's okay, eat it. Ughh...

I don't like bananas, can I just have one?

It's fruit so take two.

Do you have anything other than bananas?

No, just bananas.

Take it.

Oh, how?

You install a pipe Yeah?

and the water used to wash your hands,

goes through to the toilet.

This is much more interesting!

How did you come up with this?

I felt bad about wasting water.

I like it! It has great meaning.

Let's work on this. Okay.

Can you write it down as well?

Rock, paper, scissor!

So nobody's noticed the flies in the trash can?

Who's on trash duty today? Clean it up!

Hurry up, do it!

Ms. Kim, it's their birthday today.

It is? Yes!

Chan-ho and Ha-sung...

Miss President!

Did you forget today's birthdays?

It's Chan-ho and Ha-sung's birthday today.

Everyone back to your seats.

Today is Chan-ho and Ha-sung's special day.

It must have slipped my mind.

Let's all sing birthday song for our friends!

Okay!

Ready...

Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday dear Chan-ho and Ha-sung

Happy birthday to you!

Happy birthday, Chan-ho.

Alright everyone, please sign the birthday posters

for our birthday boys.

Yes, ma'am!

Miss president?

You do it.

Me? Why?

Just do it.

Myung-eun.

Why are you making the Secretary do your job?

Answer me!

I quit.

Myung-eun,

can you tell me what's been bothering you?

Hm?

Just everything...

What exactly has been bothering you?

Can you tell me?

I want to help.

My grandma's sick...

So my mom can't come to school like the other kids' moms.

How often parents visit school isn't an issue at all.

We're responsible for our own school life, right?

Parents aren't the students.

And I've seen so many changes since you've become class president.

You made the secret mailbox.

Also,

you celebrate everyone's birthday.

You're very thoughtful of things your classmates may not think of.

I think that's a talent you should be proud of.

I hope you continue your role as class president.

Will you do that?

Good.

School Environmental Writing Contest

Would you like to enter this writing contest?

I've always thought your emotional sensitivity was exceptional.

What do you think?

Okay... I'll do it.

Types and Solutions of Pollution: Water Pollution

Hello, Mrs. Kwon.

Oh, Myung-eun.

Are you going to read all of those?

Yes.

Can I take a quick look?

Okay.

Environmental Pollution. Save Our Waters!

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression

You can take one if you'd like.

Really?

Yeah.

Is there a book you absolutely have to have?

So I won't take it.

It's okay. You can take any.

People are right, you're someone to learn a lot from.

Don't just dump it in the sink! You're destroying the ocean!

It doesn't matter. Yes it does!

We need to recycle! Don't just throw it out!

Leave it.

Just leave it!

I said leave it.

We don't even have proper trash bags! Hey!

Why are you so ignorant?

I could hear it.

As cars and factories puff out clouds of black smoke,

I could hear the sky's painful coughs.

Chosen yesterday,

but abandoned today.

I could hear the garbage's cries of despair.

Fish with stomachs full of grease and chemicals,

struggle to breathe as they die.

And we all could hear it.

But now it seems we can't hear anything.

That must mean we also have a disease.

That is,

a disease called indifference.

The Bronze goes to Kyung-soo Kwon.

This student has shown excellence

in the School Environmental Writing Contest,

and given this award.

Eunnam Elementary School, Nam-sik Yoon. April 15th, 1996

Next.

Silver goes to Myung-eun Lee.

Myung-eun, it's you!

Go up there!

This student has shown excellence

in the School Environmental Writing Contest,

and given this award.

Mom, I got an award!

What? Show me!

The writing contest!

Honey, look! She won silver.

Uh oh... It's Okay.

Let me see.

What, silver? You need to win gold.

Well...

This was my first time without any writing classes.

Yeah, so get the gold award next time, okay?

You won an award, that means we celebrate!

Bring your brother to the BBQ restaurant at 9pm, okay?

Good job.

You did great.

Come on in.

How's This table? Sure.

Jeez, I'm so full.

Let's go.

Dad, do you want ice cream? Yeah.

Mom? Vanilla for me.

Dad? Any flavor's fine.

I need to go to the bathroom.

Hey Myung-eun.

Do you know her?

Yeah, she's in the same class as Kyung-soo...

I heard your son became Secretary?

Yeah, he is.

Done with the hobby...

My mom says she saw your family yesterday.

Don't talk to me, I'm busy writing my English letter.

Do your parents work at the market?

What should I put next? What did you guys write?

My mom says she tried to talk to you,

but you avoided and ignored her.

Where did she see me? The restaurant.

She's wrong. I was home all day.

And what market?

My dad works at a company. And my mom's a housewife.

Oh, the paper company?

Are you calling my mom a liar?

She must be mistaken.

I'll go there myself and ask if they know you.

I know where it is.

Fine. You're only wasting your energy.

What if you're wrong?

What?

What if I prove you're wrong?

Hello, can you help me with a project I have for school?

Can I interview you about your job?

Sorry, I'm busy.

I'm so sorry!

Thanks anyway...

Can I interview you?

Can I interview...

Any luck?

No...

I doubt anyone will help... It's also the weekend.

Oh...

Did you want to be a businessman when you were young?

Actually, I wanted to be a scientist.

But I guess somehow I became a businessman.

When do you feel most proud to be a businessman?

Hmm...

Proud?

How did you feel riding in the elevator?

It was fun.

I think that's when. Since I work at an elevator company.

I should explain it more simply, since it's your homework.

That's okay. I understood.

Really?

Like this?

Yes.

Can you take a picture of us?

Three, two, one!

Bigger smiles this time.

Three, two, one!

Thank you.

I prepared something for you as my gratitude.

You didn't have to.

Can I open it?

Wow.

It looks nice!

Who would've thought I'd get this.

Thanks, this will come in handy.

Thanks for the interview today.

I had fun as well.

Excuse me a moment.

Thank you.

What? Thank you so much!

Hi!

Hello!

Long time no see, Myung-eun!

New haircut? You're so grown!

Really?

Can you sleepover tonight?

Sure.

Yeah, you should stay.

Thank you!

The headband I got for Mom's birthday Mom loves to sew

Mom's cookies are the best

The cookies look good.

Wait, who's this?

Me as a baby.

Your father? Yeah.

He looks so young! Does he?

How old is he?

He's so young!

Why are you so awkward?

I'm not! My dad's awkward.

Right in here, Hye-jin.

Go on, please.

Quiet everyone! Quiet please!

You all heard a new student from Seoul is joining us today, right?

No!

Would you like to introduce yourself?

My name is Hye-jin Kim.

Hye-jin Kim?

Who's Hye-jin Kim?

Is that it? Nothing else to say?

Nothing you want to ask your new classmates?

I've been to many different schools. It's all useless.

Well, you'll make friends in no time.

You all will help, right? Yes, sir!

Oh, and Hye-jin is here with her sister. She's in the classroom next door.

Yes?

How are they in the same grade?

Oh, uh...

Have you heard of fraternal twins?

Yes.

Ms. Kim...

I told you to stay home if you're sick...

We did the introduction. Show her where to sit.

Okay...

Hye-jin?

Can you sit in the seat back there?

Miss President, our morning greeting.

Attention!

At ease!

Attention!

People of Our Town and Their Jobs

Work places that help people: Hospital, fire station, police station...

Alright,

raise your hand if your parents work in our town.

Chan-ho, want to go first? Okay.

My dad works at a service center where he provides help to customers.

My mom works at a department store where people get their necessities.

My dad works at a university where he helps people by teaching them.

My mom works at a clinic where she also helps people.

My parents work at a supermarket

where people go for fun and to get things they need.

Yes. Hye-jin, you may go next.

I don't have a dad.

My mom owns a brothel. She provides happiness to people.

What's a brothel?

It felt like people were listening. I heard noises!

Me too! I was right next to you.

They're crazy.

What are they doing?

School Writing Contest Theme: Peace

Number of Awards: 1 Gold, 2 Silver, 3 Bronze

Our class has a small library, but unfortunately no one reads any books.

Why don't we write recommendations on the cover or on the board?

Unification Observatory

North Korea is very close.

This is the Han River, and that's Imjin River. Over there is North Korea.

Look carefully.

If you look closely, you may see North Korean farmers.

We can see they are not that different from us.

Alright everyone.

Next is the award ceremony for our school's writing contest.

This year, we've had higher quality entries than ever before!

The teachers who judged had a hard time deciding.

Alright, let's begin.

Please congratulate our winners.

For bronze, we have Sook-mi Yoon from class 2-3.

In-soo Park from class 3-9, and Hee-young Kim from class 4-1.

Next, we have silver.

Two people were awarded silver.

Stand here.

Myung-eun Lee from class 5-7,

and Sung-joon Ahn from class 6-6.

Finally, we have our grand prize, gold winner.

Surprisingly, this year the winner

was not in 6th grade, but 5th.

And interestingly it isn't a single student,

but a team. The winners are,

from class 5-7, Hye-jin Kim

and Ha-yan Kim from class 5-8!

Please come forward.

A round of applause, everyone.

Peace, One Step at a Time Myung-eun Lee, class 5-7

My family motto is "A thousand miles begins with 1 step".

My parents have always said to me,

No matter how high the hike is, it begins with a single step.

So it is important to not let fear keep you from starting.'

North and South Korea went to war on June 25th, 1950

and have been under an armistice agreement for 43 years since 1953.

43 years is a very long time, 4 times as long as my entire life.

Myung-eun went all the way to the Unification Observatory

to truly feel the importance of peaceful unification.

What an admirable student!

Next, we have our gold winners.

Please welcome Hye-jin and Ha-yan Kim up to the podium to read their work.

Lunchtime Hye-jin Kim, Ha-yan Kim

For us sisters, 'Peace' is lunchtime.

At every new school, we hear the same whispers.

The soundless attacks.

Big holes have formed in our little hearts.

When we were younger, we lived every day in war.

That war was caused by our parents' divorce and our mom's job.

We moved from school to school.

War after war with nameless friends.

Bleeding from wound after wound,

from sightless bullets.

But we do not fight anymore.

We do not let teachers' interventions force us to reconcile.

Because the war will happen again.

Why must we force reunification?

Instead, we plan how to tend to our own meaning of peace.

We'd like to share in this essay what peace looks like for us.

Wait! I bet you're really good!

She's so good!

Myung-eun, you're next.

Wow, excellent!

One more round!

I want to do it like that! like this?

My turn!

You can do it!

Come on, almost!

Isn't that your brother, Myung-eun?

Who are you to talk about my parents?

You piece of trash! I didn't!

He's not. Let's do this!

Your brother... He isn't. Come back, guys!

Let's just keep playing!

It's your brother... I said he isn't! Come on!

Guys! Come back!

I really think it's him! I said no!

Why'd you push me?

You didn't listen to the class president!

Look, they're fighting! A fight!

You should've listened to me! I'm the class president!

Let go!

What did I do wrong?

I said stop looking and come back!

What? Silver again?

It's a big deal!

I read it in front of the whole school this morning!

Looking like this?

I said you look prettier with your hair tied!

Stop it!

Come to the BBQ place at 9pm.

No, let's just make BBQ at home.

It's easier to go to the restaurant.

No, I want to stay home. Can we please just eat at home?

Tell me why you started the fight!

Tell me!

We were playing dodgeball and he cheated...

Are you a bully?

Only bullies beat up each other like that!

Am I supposed to just leave him then?

You could've told your teacher!

Mind your own business.

How dare you!

Mind my own business? It is my business!

Come back right now.

Min-kyu Lee!

I'm proud of you, Mom. And I really admire you.

More than other people's parents.

I'm the oldest sibling too, and oldest think differently.

You take after me, and Myung-eun takes after your dad.

The way they spend money, their temper...

They have the same bad habits.

The only thing that she takes after me is the skin color.

Can I have more toys?

Please make Kyung-soo be quiet.

How would I shut him up?

What's up, Hye-jin?

Something's weird.

What is?

I wrote in lots of secret requests,

but none of them were fulfilled.

Really?

I wrote one today,

and again, I don't see it.

Oh, wait...

The clothes you wear,

the school supplies you use...

who bought them for you?

Our parents...

But...

you have the nerve to lie like this?

Do you?

Are you ashamed of them?

How dare you make up a fake family!

When you ran away at the restaurant,

do you think Mom and Dad didn't notice?

They aren't stupid!

Your donations will provide African children with nutritious food and medicine...

They never care about poor people in this country.

Change the channel.

Just keep watching.

What for? There's no point.

Let's watch channel 7. Okay.

What are you doing?

Please join us today. Dial...

I asked you a question.

I'm helping children in need.

Hang up! It's a waste of money.

Come back and sit down.

Myung-eun Lee!

You guys are terrible people!

Hey, Myung-eun!

You better come home.

Let go!

Min-kyu! Just leave her alone.

Dad said to bring her home.

Let her stay with us a few days.

Seriously?

He's not even our real uncle!

I said let go!

Please bless us, Lord,

and let this food nourish our mind and body.

Amen.

In Jesus' name we pray,

Amen. Amen.

1 out of 3 are malnourished.

Your donations will provide African children with nutritious food...

Can I call to donate?

As you wish.

It's a city-wide writing contest. Would you girls like to enter?

Sungwon City Children's Writing Contest. Theme: Family

Three, two, one!

One more time!

One more from a lower angle. Three, two, one!

Uncle Jin-woo?

Yes?

Why do we celebrate family in May?

You know how people celebrate their birthdays?

It's kind of like that.

Every year you spend with your family,

is an achievement.

It's 9pm. Don't you have to sleep?

Wait...

I have to write this.

Yeah?

Okay then, I'll head to bed first.

Huh? Oh.

Good night, Grandpa.

Good night.

We Are Not Fraternal Twins By Hye-jin & Ha-yan Kim

Happy Birthday to My Family By Myung-eun Lee

Are you finished?

Not yet.

We are Not Fraternal Twins By Hye-jin & Ha-yan Kim

One day in April, the sisters...

Aren't you sick of them?

I hate how they take turns leaving each other out.

Every school I've been to was the same.

Have you been to Dream Katsu?

They're really good.

A toast.

A toast!

A toast.

Cheers!

It's good, right?

Yeah.

When she sleeps, she always...

You know what she does sometimes?

No, shut up! Wait, hold on!

Be quiet! It's all for fun!

Hey, don't say anything.

I got This one. and I got this.

I don't have my ears pierced. Here, I'll show you.

You take it and hold it like this.

Make it look cute!

It looks so pretty!

You do the other side.

Hurry, hurry! Stop pushing me!

I think we can reach!

Myung-eun, hold your hand out!

Look at this.

What is it?

I think it's calloused.

From writing so much.

We don't have that.

Well...

It's probably because everyday I write book reviews, letters, and in my diary.

It looks painful.

It isn't.

It just looks ugly.

Um, how long do you guys prepare for writing contests?

Us?

An hour?

How?

We don't really prepare.

If you just write your honest truth,

teachers feel moved and give you awards.

Every school we've been to was like that.

She's right. It never failed.

Dear Grandma, it's your granddaughter, Myung-eun.

The sky is clean and clear today.

Sometimes I look up at the sky where you are.

Each time I think about you looking down on me,

and my cheeks turn red.

A Letter from Your Granddaughter

Dear Grandma, it's your granddaughter, Myung-eun.

I'm sure you know, Grandma.

The lies I've told my teacher about you being sick.

Every single time, I felt so sorry for lying about you.

But I didn't lie because you were no longer here.

I thought if there was anyone in this universe that would forgive me,

it would be you.

I'm so sorry.

Grandma...

What's the meaning of 'Family'?

To me, it's still a mystery.

There are so many families that seem to have everything,

but it seems like my family has nothing.

For example...

Dad is lazy and doesn't like to work.

He's never been first to open up their shop.

Everything in here is good for you!

Eat up!

Salted squid, salted roe...

I'm embarrassed of taking the same stinky food to school.

Dad...

Gimbap again?

I know, I'm sick of it too.

While other dads are busy at work,

Are you leaving? Yeah.

mine sleeps and slacks off all day. see you later, Dad.

Hey, Sung-ho! Hey! What brings you here?

My office is right over there.

He wears baggy jeans instead of suits,

Did you hear the news?

and wears tennis shoes. What? You're a lawyer?

Wow... wait, here.

He has no briefcase. my number's on This receipt.

Stop by if you need salted fish. It's good.

It's like I don't even exist!

She makes all the decisions and expects me to follow.

She's a dictator!

Hey, if it weren't for her you'd be on the streets.

Welcome! How can I help you?

Where's the lady?

She's out for a delivery. Tell me.

Salted roe? Salted guts?

The lady gives me more.

I can give you more! I'm very generous.

I can give more than her!

Look, I'll...

Hi! Welcome.

I was about to leave because you weren't here!

1 kilogram?

He's always asleep when I visit the store.

He seems so irresponsible.

Honestly, I'm more embarrassed of Mom than Dad.

She's always in dirty clothes wearing a hat and boots.

Does she just not care how people look at her?

Honey! Jin-woo! Come out and help me with this!

What a noise.

All she cares about is money.

You know you're my only friend.

I don't have anyone else to go to.

Look.

I've never even been able to grow my nails out like you.

She doesn't care about her friends.

Don't give it to her.

Why not?

They're all basically con artists.

Why can't I give it to her?

You need to recycle! Don't just throw it out!

Leave it!

She doesn't protect the environment.

My mom's dead now, so we're no longer a family, right?

Please don't ask for anything else.

And doesn't respect her parents.

All you know is how to spend money!

She's always talking bad about Dad in front of us.

She has no class so her voice always hurts my ears.

Honestly, Min-kyu says lots of bad things about Mom and Dad.

Are you leaving Yeah.

See you later, Dad.

Does he know what time it is?

He hated when Dad woke up late for work.

Do you understand what I put up with, Min-kyu?

When Mom talks bad about me, Dad, Dad's family, Grandpa, Uncle Jin-woo,

friends who ask for money, people who conned her out of money,

and weird customers...

I'm tired of listening to all her shit!

Min-kyu talks about how much he hates it.

But he acts like the perfect son in front of Mom and Dad.

I'm staying at your house right now.

Your uncle was born lazy...

I grew up listening to Mom talk bad about her dad and brother she shares no blood with

Mom says you died because they were responsible for your high blood pressure.

I've actually seen Grandpa grab you by your collar.

But Grandpa has lots of good qualities.

He does everything I want for me.

Dinner at 6 o'clock

Bedtime at 9 o'clock.

He makes pretty lunches for me,

and he follows my daily schedule.

Give this to the old lady, Myung-eun.

He makes me help others in need,

and he prays for my family and those less fortunate.

I'll visit again. You're welcome anytime.

Here... Oh no!I can't.

It's not much. He's very generous with his friends.

I think we failed.

Nonsense... It smells weird.

And he protects the environment.

No, I want to do it! Go for it.

Uncle Jin-woo works in construction,

but he dresses like a businessman when he comes to see me.

I've never asked him to,

but he puts in the effort on his own.

I think he gets me because he's also the youngest.

Uncle Jin-woo! Hello!

Hi!

Nice to meet you, too.

The kids' teacher said you take care of your sick mom all day.

So I haven't had the chance to meet Myung-eun's mom yet.

She's actually at the hospital now. Thanks for all your hard work.

No need to thank me!

We're all helping each other out.

Would it be okay if I stopped by at the school to help?

I thought you were working?

I can take a day off if it's for my niece.

If Grandpa and Uncle Jin-woo can do it,

why can't Mom and Dad do the same?

Enjoy your dinner!

Why won't they put themselves in my shoes?

Let's go. Bye!

I've wanted to ask them for a long time.

Hello?

Yeah, we are.

She's doing good.

We're all okay. Don't worry.

Take care of yourself.

And...

Okay. We can talk later.

Let's go to the amusement park this Saturday.

Sure.

How much do I need?

Including food... about 20,000 won?

Hmm... okay.

Let's go shopping together later!

Okay!

Alright.

She's actually on time today! Yeah.

Sit down, everyone.

The city has announced the winners of the Children's Writing Contest.

Every elementary school in the city sent in submissions.

Which means the competition was fierce.

However, our school did not have a single winner...

But!

I was just as surprised as you guys are right now.

Not one, but three winners were selected from our school!

Did you send in another submission without me knowing?

Yes...

Now come up and see for yourselves.

Myung-eun got two?

Grand Prize: A Letter from Your Granddaughter Myung-eun Lee

Excellence Prize: We are Not Fraternal Twins - Hye-jin & Ha-yan Kim

Honorable Mention: Happy Birthday to My Family - Myung-eun Lee

We have two future writers in our class.

The ceremony is at Sungwon Citizen's Hall

at 10am on Saturday, the 22nd.

Your works are going to be in the local newspaper and will be published.

That means everyone in the city will see it.

You guys should be very proud.

Aren't they your friends?

Delicious, right?

Grandpa? Yeah?

Why didn't Uncle Jin-woo become an artist?

What artist?

Look at him, he has no ambition.

Don't be like your uncle.

He's really good at drawing.

I have a job.

You call that a job?

Construction work once or twice a week?

I'm not saying construction work is bad,

but you just don't have any consistency.

No matter what it is.

Do I ever ask you for money? Why are you like this?

Of course you shouldn't at your age!

I don't expect anything from you.

You haven't done anything for me.

Even the house it was all thanks to Mom's daughter!

She paid for your wedding,

and paid all of our living expenses!

And mom's funeral and hospital bills? You didn't help with anything!

I should save my breath So stop blaming me.

Grandpa's very curious to read your writing, Myung-eun.

Just read it when it's in the newspaper.

Did you call your parents?

Why not?

Your parents would be proud. Should I call them?

15th Annual Children's Writing Contest Winners. Grand Prize: Myung-eun Lee,

Excellence Prize: Hye-jin Kim, Ha-yan Kim, Honorable Mention: Myung-eun Lee

Teachers: Ae-ran Kim, Hye-sook Cho

14th Annual Children's Writing Contest Winning Essays

Department of Cultural Affairs.

Hi, I'm one of the winners of this year's writing contest.

Hello. What's your name?

Myung-eun Lee.

Oh, Grand Prize and Honorable Mention.

Yes...

Congratulations.

Will my essays be in the newspaper?

Yes, the award ceremony is on Saturday,

and will be in the local newspaper next Monday.

Can I just get the award and not have it in the newspaper?

What? Why?

I just don't want to share it.

We can't do that. Especially with the Grand Prize winner.

Okay, I understand...

Alright...

Hi, it's me again, Myung-eun Lee.

Myung-eun...

Yes...

Did you copy someone else's work?

Then did your parents or someone else write it for you?

Then why won't you accept the Grand Prize?

There must be a reason. You're good at explaining things.

I just don't want it.

I just can't understand. What's going on?

Did you not see the banner out front?

The entire school knows.

Look, it's even in the newspaper,

and the principal is so happy.

Myung-eun,

everyone makes mistakes.

When I was younger, I once copied someone else's poem.

I didn't know that was wrong back then.

Can you please tell me the truth?

Whatever it is, I promise I'll understand.

I'm your teacher.

I just don't want it.

Well as far as I know, you're accepting it.

We need to hurry and call them before they actually cancel it.

What the...

I just want Honorable Mention.

But why?

It doesn't make sense to you either, right?

I wasn't going to submit it in the first place.

But you won! You won the Grand Prize!

This isn't just about you, it's the school.

I wrote it, not the school!

Well...

Who helped you enter in the first place?

I'm the one who did all the proof-reading!

I wrote the Grand Prize entry all by myself.

Is the honesty embarrassing? Like your diary?

You're shy about sharing it with the public, right?

I don't think you should be.

The people who read it will be moved by your honest truth.

The theme was 'Family'. What honest truth did you write?

Is it that different from your other one?

It's something I've never told anyone.

Then it must be even more special, right?

Ms. Kim? Yes?

Honestly, I want the award.

But I don't want others to read it.

But I called and they said that wasn't allowed.

Yeah.

That's the organization's rule.

I would accept it if I were you.

And your parents will be happy.

Okay.

Let's turn it down.

I'll talk to the principal and let him know.

I wrote bad things about my family...

But the judges were moved by what you wrote!

That must mean it's a great essay. And your family will like it.

I'm scared my honesty will hurt my family...

You must really love your family!

Myung-eun,

if that's how you truly feel,

I'll understand.

You can turn down the award.

You don't have to force honesty.

Honesty isn't always the best policy.

But being honest is good.

In my opinion, what's more important isn't honesty.

It's thinking about others' feelings, even if you have to lie.

Just like how you're thinking about your family.

I...

I don't love my family.

I hate people like my family.

Is that what you wrote?

But...

I feel miserable...

Sungwon City Hall

Hi, I'm Myung-eun Lee. I turned down the Grand Prize.

Oh, yeah!

Did you change your mind?

No. Can I have the original copy I sent in?

What?

Yeah.

Are you really not coming?

What about her dad?

Okay then, we'll go on our own.

Don't worry. You already did last time.

Give it to us next time.

Okay, we'll visit soon.

Bye.

Myung-eun. Yeah?

Let's eat first.

Let me finish my hair first.

It looks good now.

Come on out. We need to eat.

Min-seok Jung from An-woong Elementary School.

Contents as before.

Honorable Mention,

Myung-eun Lee from Eunnam Elementary School.

Contents same as before.

Myung-eun!

This award goes to these students for their achievements in

the 15th Annual Sungwon City Children's Writing Contest.

Congratulations.

Congratulations.

Okay everyone, please come to the center for a group photo.

Alright, this is good.

Um...

Can the trophy holders come to the middle,

and those with certificates,

I'm sorry, but can you stand to the side?

There we go, that's better.

Alright, ready...

Three... two... one!

Isn't That too spicy? Not at all!

My stomach hurts when I eat it because it's too spicy.

I still think we should just go get Chinese food.

But it's too crowded there.

But today's the perfect day for Chinese food.

We have plenty of food at home.

Let's go home. I'll make something delicious.

I'll call the Chinese place and order us noodle.

It's already so late!

Myung-eun must be hungry.

What are you doing, Myung-eun?

I'll be right back.

Dad. What?

I got an award

before a super large audience at the really big ceremony at Citizen's Hall.

It's going to be on TV, in the newspaper, and published in a book!

I'm so proud of you.

I'll give you a little more.

They are not real sisters.

Hye-jin's mom was one of the women who worked for Ha-yan's mom.

Mom and Dad were never married.

He was a customer whose face has never been seen.

Her mom now treats her like her real daughter,

but she isn't her real mom.

The principal...

told them and their mom to say they were fraternal twins,

and that their mom has a normal job.

Then there wouldn't be any issues,

and they wouldn't have to move to a different school.

But Hye-jin no longer wants to hide the truth.

Even if the kids bully her,

or the principal hates her,

Hye-jin does not want to forget the gratitude she has for

Ha-yan and her mom for protecting her.

And she feels the best way to do so is...

Honorable Mention: Happy Birthday to My Family Myung-eun Lee

... to not hide the truth.

Family information: 6th Grade

Father: High School Graduate Mother: High School Graduate

Occupation:

Salted fish shop

Did everyone bring back the family information sheets?

Yes, sir!

Take them out.

Now turn it over.

Huh?

Personally,

I have no interest in your family background.

What's so funny?

I'm only interested in you guys.

Now, on the paper in front of you,

I want you to write anything about yourself.

Your motto, dreams, your role model,

what you like, what you dislike,

your personality, good and bad traits,

insecurities, friends, birthday,

there's so much to write, right?

Yeah! No!

No?

Or you can write anything you think I should know.

If you really have nothing, . write a love letter to me

No!

Write whatever you want. Let's begin!