Okay, here is a plot summary for the entire series "Burning" (韩语: ???, often translated as "Ignite" or "Fire"). Please note that the summary covers major plot points and potential spoilers.
"Burning" (??? / Ignite) Full Series Plot Summary
Part 1: The Spark
- Introduction to the Protagonist: The story centers around Jang Geon (??), a former elite soldier and firefighter. He lives a quiet life in Busan, working as a firefighter, haunted by a past tragedy he feels responsible for. He is deeply devoted to his younger sister, Jang Mi (??), who suffers from Fragile X syndrome, requiring constant care.
- Arrival of Lee Seung-joon (???): A charismatic and wealthy businessman, Lee Seung-joon, arrives in Busan. He presents himself as a representative from a company that might be able to help Mi with a new treatment. He seems sincere and dedicated to Mi, quickly gaining the trust of Geon and Mi's mother, Jang Soo-kyung (???).
- The Connection: Seung-joon forms a close bond with Mi, seemingly understanding her unique needs. His presence begins to subtly disrupt Geon's stable life and his relationship with Mi. He often stays at their home, creating an uncomfortable dynamic.
- Growing Suspicion: Geon starts noticing inconsistencies and peculiarities about Seung-joon. He seems overly interested in Geon's past as a soldier, perhaps wanting information or resources. There are hints of a darker side to Seung-joon's business dealings and his true intentions.
- Escalating Tensions: As Seung-joon's influence grows, Geon's suspicion turns to fear. He starts investigating Seung-joon, uncovering fragments of a disturbing truth about his past and his connections to a dangerous organization. Geon realizes Seung-joon is not just after Mi's well-being, but something far more sinister.
Part 2: The Confrontation
- Uncovering the Truth: Geon delves deeper, discovering that Seung-joon is a ruthless leader of a dangerous crime syndicate, likely responsible for past crimes. He was involved in the death of a police officer (or perhaps connected to Geon's past tragedy) and is using Mi and her condition as leverage or a cover for his illegal activities.
- The Threat to Mi: Geon learns that Mi is not just a pawn; she might hold a key to Seung-joon's past, or he might believe her unique condition makes her valuable or useful to him. He fears for her safety and the well-being of her mother.
- Geon's Transformation: Confronted with the reality that he cannot protect Mi from the dangerous world Seung-joon represents, Geon is forced to make a difficult choice. He must tap back into his former soldier instincts and combat training to face Seung-joon and his organization.
- Climactic Struggle: The series builds towards a tense and violent climax where Geon confronts Seung-joon directly. This involves intense fight sequences, strategic planning, and emotional conflict, as Geon fights not only the criminals but also his own guilt and past trauma.
- Resolution (of Part 1): Geon manages to thwart Seung-joon's immediate plans, potentially leading to Seung-joon's capture, escape, or further遁入地下 (遁入地下 -遁入地下). However, the conflict does not end cleanly. The syndicate remains a threat, and the lives of Geon, Mi, and Soo-kyung are irrevocably changed. Geon is left deeply scarred but also determined to protect his sister at all costs.
Overall Themes:
- Protection and Sibling Bond: The core of the story is Geon's unwavering devotion to his sister Mi.
- Trauma and Redemption: Geon's past as a soldier and firefighter heavily influences his actions and internal struggles.
- Moral Ambiguity: Characters like Seung-joon blur the lines between victim and perpetrator.
- Crime and Corruption: The series explores the dark underbelly of society and organized crime.
- Survival and Confrontation: Geon's journey is one of facing his past and fighting for his loved ones against overwhelming odds.
"Burning" is known for its intense action sequences, complex characters, and emotional depth, particularly focusing on the relationship between the brothers and the challenges they face.