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Chief Kim: Episode 20 (Final)

by hanshimi

As this comedic gem comes to its sweet and satisfying end, we’re reminded of how much we’ve been through together. Throughout its run, I’ve been increasingly surprised at how well Chief Kim executed its genre, especially its loving character development and its thoughtful wisdom – but now that it’s time to send off our much-changed heroes (and villains), I find myself regretting the time I spent doubting the show instead of just enjoying it at face value. With all the love and care the showrunners put into this lovely, wacky, and unexpectedly wise show, I’ll be sad to say goodbye, but I’m grateful for the characters that have come to feel like my good friends.

 
FINAL EPISODE RECAP

Prosecutor Han and his coworkers invade Chairman Park’s office, but he’s already disappeared. Just as Chairman Park arrives at the airport with packed bags, Yul and Sung-ryong realize that Chairman Park is probably trying to flee. They hurry to catch him before it’s too late.

When they arrive at the airport, Yul runs frantically through the crowd to search for the chairman, but Sung-ryong has a better idea. Over the intercom, he announces that a criminal is trying to flee his charges of attempted murder and embezzlement. As Sung-ryong describes Chairman Park’s appearance to as giggling passersby, Chairman Park covers his face with his passport, and Yul calls to snap at him to hurry to Chairman Park’s gate.

Yul arrives at the gate first and catches the chairman just in time, but airport security drags him off. Sung-ryong is met with the same treatment even as he kicks and screams about Chairman Park’s criminal charges. The chairman nearly gets away scot-free… until Prosecutor Han appears, arrest warrant in hand. Phew!

At home, Madam Jang receives the news of Chairman Park’s arrest. Beside her, Myung-suk hangs his head, and they sit in silence.

Sung-ryong arrives at the Prosecutor’s Office with energy drinks for Ga-eun and Yul. As they wait for the lawyers to arrive, Ga-eun asks Sung-ryong how he managed to catch Chief Lee’s attempted murderers at the hospital yesterday. Through a flash back, we see that when Ha-kyung had left the office to pay Chief Lee a visit, Sung-ryong had informed her that there would probably be men waiting there.

At the hospital, Mrs. Lee had happily informed her that Chief Lee was close to recovery. However, Mrs. Lee had confirmed that a suspicious man had been hanging outside their room for a few days. Disguised in hospital uniforms, Business Operations had made sure the coast was clear as they moved Chief Lee’s body to safety, tricking the murderer into targeting a decoy.

In the present, Sung-ryong asks Ga-eun what they found in Chief Lee’s black box. Through another flash back, we see that Director Go had threatened Chief Lee in his car, forcing him to confess to embezzlement and gambling and to delete all the evidence he had on TQ. When he’d refused, several black-clad figures had dragged him out of his car. Blackmailing him with pictures of his young son, they’d forced him to write his own suicide note and then strangled him with a rope.

Sung-ryong curses, swearing to arrest them all. Then Yul informs them that the lawyers have arrived for the interrogation.

As they watch, Prosecutor Han asks Chairman Park and Executive Director Jo whether Chairman Park ordered Chief Lee’s murder. Before Executive Director Jo can answer, however, Chairman Park blames it all on her – she orchestrated the whole thing, he says, to prove her loyalty to him. Executive Director Jo stares at him in shock.

Chairman Park then demands the evidence of his alleged embezzlement and tax evasion, pointing out that they don’t have evidence of his slush fund. This won’t end until they find that money, Yul notes grimly, but Sung-ryong disagrees: the end will only end when Chairman Park is sent to prison.

It’s easier said than done, however, because Chairman Park has specifically chosen banks that protect their clients’ account information. At the office, Sung-ryong notes that Chairman Park would never reveal the bank information himself, and Accountant Lee was in charge of those accounts, anyway… which makes Ha-kyung wonder, how are they doing?

Cut to: an exhausted Accountant Lee and Director Go, still tied up and confined to their chairs. As Director Go complains that they haven’t eaten in days, Accountant Lee tries to bite through their ropes with bloody lips. Suddenly, Director Go realizes that his hands have been untied for a while now, and Accountant Lee wails at his wasted effort.

Director Go starts to untie Accountant Lee, but quickly ties himself back up when the police barge in. Lol. They begin to sigh in relief that the police have come to save them, but instead, the police inform them that they’re under arrest for breach of duty and fraud.

Meanwhile, dozens of reporters wait outside of the Prosecutor’s Office to question Chairman Park. He denies the allegations, declaring that the police are forcing him to confess against his will. As TQ watches the controversy on TV, Ms. Uhm snorts to herself: “What a joke.”

Business Operations fields a barrage of phone calls from furious banks, demanding their investments and loan payments. When Manager Lee wonders if TQ could actually go bankrupt and force everyone into unemployment, a dismayed Myung-suk storms out of the office.

Ha-kyung follows him out to see what’s wrong, and Myung-suk asks if it’s true that TQ could fail despite all of their hard work. Ha-kyung tells him that it’s possible, though not certain. She urges him to stay hopeful, but Myung-suk tells her that it’s useless.

While Yul tries to calm down TQ’s furious board of directors, Madam Jang meets with her own board members, all demanding an immediate solution to this mess.

Meanwhile, Chairman Park calmly eats a boxed lunch as he meets with his lawyer. He tells him to negotiate a deal: get Madam Jang to take the blame for the embezzlement and Executive Director Jo to take the blame for the attempted murder. If they do, then he will use his own assets to prevent TQ’s bankruptcy. He demands their answers within two days, or else TQ will go belly-up.

Chairman Park has an additional message for Executive Director Jo: If she agrees to take the blame for the murder, he will make sure she lives comfortably after his release. Overnight, Executive Director Jo considers the offer before returning with a counteroffer: Chairman Park must give her half of his slush fund, or she’ll release the voice recording proving that he ordered the murder. Executive Director Jo demands an answer within two days.

Sung-ryong, Director Chu, and Ha-kyung meet with Madam Jang to discuss Chairman Park’s deal. Worried for the employees, Madam Jang starts to give in to Chairman Park’s demand, but Sung-ryong insists that she can’t give in to terrorists’ demands. Madam Jang thanks them for staying strong.

Late at night, Sung-ryong visits Yul at the office. Yul is busy calling banks to get them to extend their deadlines, but it’s their last chance: If they don’t make it this time, it’s over.

Chairman Park sends his lawyer to meet Madam Jang and push for a quick response. Madam Jang tells the lawyer that she declines, but this time, Myung-suk intervenes. They both know that Chairman Park is the only one who can clean up this mess, he says, “So stop being irrational and face reality!” He storms upstairs.

The next day, Chairman Park summons Myung-suk to prison. Praising Myung-suk for thinking rationally, he urges him to protect TQ so he can inherit it one day.

Meanwhile, Chairman Park’s lawyer meets with Executive Director Jo to negotiate their deal. Chairman Park offers to settle for a 40/20 split when she agrees, and twenty percent more when he’s released. She scoffs, wondering how she can trust him, but she finally accepts the deal.

The next day, Chairman Park calls Myung-suk to the prison again. Sang-tae asks what’s going on, but Myung-suk brushes him off, and the rest of the team stares after him in concern.

At the prison, Chairman Park quietly slips Myung-suk his bank account information. Chairman Park tells him to manage the slush fund there, warning him that if he gets caught, it’s game over. Myung-suk is shocked that Chairman Park would give him such a responsibility and returns to the office sweating and nervous.

Alone in the office that night, Myung-suk trembles as he transfers his father’s slush fund to a different account. We think he’s given in to his father’s command… until the camera pans out, and we see that he’s not alone at all! Hooray, Myung-suk!

Business Operations crowds around to watch the transfer, and they gape at the sheer scale of the slush fund – 100 billion won – which Myung-suk has just transferred to Business Operations’ reserve account.

Sung-ryong and Yul visit Chairman Park to discuss the deal he offered Madam Jang, telling him that if he gives them access to his slush fund, they’ll consider. Chairman Park tells them that their so-called righteous principles are ruining the world, but Sung-ryong disagrees – it’s Chairman Park’s greed that is the true evil. Both Sung-ryong and Yul might have started out being greedy, they note, but they’ve decided to change.

A guard interrupts to tell Sung-ryong that he has a phone call. Alone with Yul, Chairman Park tells him that he’s made a foolish decision, but Yul steadfastly disagrees.

At that moment, Sung-ryong returns, suddenly commending Chairman Park’s integrity: “It turns out your Swiss bank slush fund had only 290 dollars!” He also has some interesting news: a certain person just returned a huge amount of money to Business Operations’ reserves. Chairman Park is shocked, but that’s not all – Yul also has Executive Director Jo’s voice recording, which proves that Chairman Park ordered Chief Lee’s murder.

We flash back to see Yul visiting Executive Director Jo in prison to convince her that Chairman Park was never on her side. Offering to shorten her sentence to seven years, he’d asked for her cooperation.

Next, we flash back to Sung-ryong meeting Myung-suk over Chairman Park’s Swiss account slush fund. Sung-ryong had said that it was fine if Myung-suk didn’t want to help them, but he’d have to live with himself for the rest of his shamelessly rich life. Myung-suk had sighed and said that he didn’t want to live that way at all.

Hearing all of this, Chairman Park erupts at Sung-ryong and Yul from behind the glass. Sung-ryong and Yul run out of the room, pretending to be scared, but they remind him that he still has 290 dollars in his bank. They stick their tongues out at him and escape.

Business Operations brings Yul for a celebratory round of drinks, though Myung-suk doesn’t attend. They sweetly thank Yul for his help, but when Sung-ryong calls him out on his false modesty, blowing Yul winks and kisses, they go straight back to bickering. Lol.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Lee tends to Chief Lee at the hospital when he suddenly calls out to her. He’s finally awake, and they share a tearful embrace.

After the meal, Yul and Sung-ryong ask about each other’s future plans. Sung-ryong says that he’ll probably take a break from being Mr. Righteous. As for Yul, the Prosecutor’s Office has asked him to return, but he isn’t sure if that’s what he wants.

Before they part, Yul tells Sung-ryong that he’s the “world’s best Chief Kim.” Sung-ryong returns the sentiment: “You’re the best prosecutor, financial director, and glutton in the world.” They share a sweet moment… before screaming at each other at how disgustingly corny that was. They split ways, wishing never to see each other again. LOL.

In court the next day, Chairman Park makes his final statement. Declaring that some business decisions and sacrifices are unavoidable, he insists that all of his actions were for TQ itself.

Thankfully, however, the judge finds that this case shows clear corruption. The court sentences Chairman Park to twenty-two years in prison, Executive Director Jo to seven years, Director Go to four years, and Accountant Lee to three years. The audience grins in relief and triumph.

As the accused are escorted out of the courtroom, Sung-ryong smugly calls out to Chairman Park: “If you get out, don’t ever steal money from the powerless again.” When Chairman Park screams at him in fury, however, Sung-ryong jumps in surprise and hurries away, lol.

Outside the courtroom, Ga-eun thanks Prosecutor Han for the opportunity to work on such a big case. Sung-ryong joins in to give him a present: a tip for his possible next case on political corruption. Ga-eun grins.

At that moment, a familiar figure appears to say hello – it’s Boss Bae, fresh out of prison. Congratulating Sung-ryong for his victory, he asks Sung-ryong to help manage the two new nightclubs he’s just bought. The pay? Whatever Sung-ryong wants to take. Sung-ryong starts to decline… but then grins cheekily.

Meanwhile, Yul submits his resignation letter to Madam Jang, now Chairman Jang. Though Chairman Jang tries to reject it, Yul insists that he needs some time to make himself a better person.

Sung-ryong submits his own resignation to Director Chu, and the team gathers to say their teary goodbyes. Sung-ryong tries to stay his normal cheery self, but gets choked up when the atmosphere gets heavy as he thanks them for making him a decent human being. Turning to glance at his loyal team one last time, Sung-ryong leaves with a sad smile.

Ha-kyung follows him out, telling him that TQ will always welcome back its Psycho/Mr. Righteous. As he turns, she calls out to him one last time: “Chief Kim!” They share a last lingering smile before he leaves for good.

Outside the building, Sung-ryong looks up at TQ with a bittersweet expression.

One year later. The news reports that a big shot politician was arrested for corruption, and Prosecutor Han and Ga-eun watch the arrest with triumphant grins.

Myung-suk visits Chairman Park in prison, and his father still hasn’t forgiven him. Tearing up, Myung-suk tells him he’s now able to live decently by repenting for his father’s wrongs in his stead. Chairman Park just laughs at Myung-suk’s sincerity, and Myung-suk looks at him sadly.

At TQ, Chairman Jang announces that they are hiring a new CFO, accepting applications from all who prioritize transparent leadership. Meanwhile, Director Chu has been promoted to an executive position, and gets to look through intern applications of his own. Accountant Park tries to protest when he chooses someone with unimpressive specs, but Director Chu insists that they should give everyone a chance based on merit.

They’re interrupted by a phone call from Director Chu’s wife, telling him to come home early. His wife and daughter returned to Korea a month ago, Director Chu informs Accountant Park, but then notes to himself that life was more peaceful before.

We see that the Accounting intern that Director Chu chose was Kwang-sook. She greets the department with her usual gaudy attitude and notes the department’s quiet, awkward atmosphere.

At Business Operations, Ms. Uhm scolds Ki-ok for leaving tissues everywhere. When he complains that the air in the office is bad, Manager Lee notes that they should have moved to the 17th floor after all, but Ha-kyung insists that this office feels like home: “Isn’t that right, Chief Lee?” Chief Lee, who has returned to work, agrees.

Ki-ok and Hee-jin, who have started a relationship, agree that the mold is part of their family. When Kwang-sook drops in to visit, announcing her new intern job, Sang-tae proudly barges forward to embrace his girlfriend. When the Director of Ethical Management appears to tell them to quiet down, Ms. Uhm steps forward to challenge her and meets her disciplinary stick with her broom. So cute.

Ha-kyung visits Yul in his office. Now working as a public defender, he’s busy thanking whistle-blowers for their courage. Ha-kyung gives him a thumbs up, and they head out for pizza. (Omg, are they dating?)

As they eat, Ha-kyung notes that Yul only planned to volunteer as a public defender for a year. Pulling out TQ’s CFO application, she tells him that he’s the exact kind of person they need at TQ. He agrees to think about it.

Later, Chairman Jang fields interviews for the CFO position and smiles warmly to see Yul walk in for his interview.

Meanwhile in Gunsan, Sung-ryong is busy managing Boss Bae’s nightclubs, back to wearing a gaudy gangster outfit. But when he catches his underlings embezzling a little bit too much, he orders them to recite the mantra: “Don’t rip off too much! Don’t steal from the weak!” It’s okay to skim some off of their bosses, but taking anything from the staff? Sung-ryong slices a hand across his throat, and they gasp before scurrying away. He chuckles at how cute they are.

As he leaves, a man in a black suit drives up to catch him, introducing himself as a prosecutor. Sung-ryong is miffed, insisting that he’s been on excellent behavior for the past year, but the prosecutor isn’t here to apprehend Sung-ryong. He’s investigating a public enterprise accounting fraud, and needs someone to go undercover and get information.

Sung-ryong wonders why they chose him, and the prosecutor explains that both Prosecutor Han and Attorney Seo Yul recommended him personally. Hee. The prosecutor begs for his help, but Sung-ryong refuses.

…But when he asks for a third time, Sung-ryong finally turns around and grins.

 
COMMENTS

Because really, was there any other way to end this show except on Sung-ryong’s smug grin? It’s amazing, in retrospect, how much ground Chief Kim managed to cover over its twenty episode run. From Sung-ryong’s initial ideological transformation, to the slow change among the side characters, and finally to its victory against TQ’s corruption, the show was always well-written and developed. But this finale felt like an especially perfect way to let us say goodbye by allowing each of its characters to choose to change and become comfortable with who they are happiest and proudest of being.

Though each of our characters ends up in a place where we might not have expected back in Episode 1, it’s clear that they’re each right at home: Puppy Yul actively pursues an unprofitable way to make himself into a better person, Myung-suk actively chooses to speak up for what he knows is right, and even our villains, like Executive Director Jo, are given avenues through which they might right their wrongs in the future. I loved that Myung-suk didn’t hesitate to choose to become a decent person in the end – while his shortsighted greed would certainly have stopped him before, now, he thought of all the people it would affect. When the camera panned out to show him giving up his father’s slush fund and working alongside Business Operations the whole time, it was a huge relief, and I genuinely felt silly for doubting him.

The fact that we understand, and are happy for, the places that each of our characters end up only speaks to the consistently thoughtful writing that has been a staple of this show. Their journeys alongside Sung-ryong pushed them to reflect on what truly made them proud, and actively become it. Both Sung-ryong and Yul were characters with lots of space to grow, and Chief Kim never shied away from that potential for growth, instead meeting it head-on by letting its characters heal each other. I’ve always adored the trope of a villain-turned-friend, but it isn’t often that you see a show that is so unabashedly willing to forgive its characters and give them a second and third chance, especially considering how easy it is for a writer to subject them to the hopelessness of their initial situations. With how much darkness there is in the real world and in some more cynical dramas, I love the idea that a show so rife with corruption and violence would instead end in such an expansively forgiving friendship – not just within the protagonist’s team, but friendship that infiltrated even the antagonists’ team.

One of my favorite aspects of this last episode, for example, was that the show “gave” Ha-kyung to Yul – not that Ha-kyung is an object for barter, of course, but it was clear from the start that Ha-kyung could easily become a mindless love interest to make Sung-ryong look better. Instead, the show let Ha-kyung forgo the romance and instead stick to her own ideals – the ideals through which Yul was able to change himself for the better. The show recognized that Sung-ryong did not “need” Ha-kyung, and that he had enough to change by himself; Yul, however, benefited infinitely by her patient influence. While a Yul/Ha-kyung relationship might have been more exciting (read: squeal-worthy), the way the show handled their relationship was much more mature and than a cheap love triangle would have been.

This might sound overdramatic, but I was truly grateful to this show for pulling me out of my own cynicism and doubt of the show’s antics. As a comedic, comfort food-type, workplace drama, Chief Kim isn’t my usually preferred genre, and I entered a little doubtful of its initially nebulous direction. But through its run, it almost felt like this drama forgave me for being jaded; it never got preachy or boring, but gently took my hand and led me out into its most joyful, funny, and emotionally weighty aspects. Obviously, the show requires some suspension of disbelief to let the events run amok, but that’s just its charm – sacrificing reality for the sake of what was more important to this show: its insistence on giving all of its characters a chance to shine and to heal. Chief Kim never even considered a cynical or less-than-happy ending: While the first half of every episode always plunged our characters into their darkest, most hopeless moments, it only made their inevitable and doubtless escape from evil’s clutches more satisfying. It’s that consistent reminder of the indefatigability of moral persistence that makes Chief Kim such a healing and important watch.

In the end, my favorite part of this drama was how clearly everyone seemed to enjoy working on it, from the writers, the directors who came up with consistently visually stunning shots, and the actors who went above and beyond to express their wacky characters. I especially loved the final illustrated ending card on the show, which shows all of the actors and staff members gathered for a group picture, with the caption: “We’re all the main characters of Chief Kim!” It’s not uncommon to have those kinds of group pictures at the end of a show’s run, but with how much the show itself emphasized the power and the necessity of teamwork, it adds a special little something to saying goodbye to this sweet little gem.

It might be time to say goodbye to Chief Kim, but Chief Kim is just getting started doing good in the world. Just as Sung-ryong will never forget the company that made him into a respectable human being, I think we’ll all hold Chief Kim and its ragtag bunch of stubborn hopefuls in our fondest memories for a long time to come.

 
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Tags: Chief Kim, Episode 20, featured, Junho, Nam Sang-mi, Namgoong Min

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It's been a great watch till the end. Nothing is draggy. And it's really great how everyone got a 2nd chance at life, even yul. Love the ending :)

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It's been a great journey. I loved almost everything about the show. Oh, how i'll miss this one.

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??it's over.. this has to be one of the best dramas I've seen this year. And I loved the bromance between Sung ryong and Yul. Deny it all you want Yul, I know you feel the bromance too. Thnks for the recaps

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I really hope they win like best couple at the KBS end of the year awards!

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I was just thinking the same. So far it's my favourite couple for 2017!

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Show is fun but that's it. This show is Laugh for gags office version. I enjoyed many episodes but overall i give it B- Grade.
Many not gonna agree with my views but the dragged and was mini sitcom. Almost all characters were incompetent throughout the run of the show. Typical cardnboard characters. Initially, it felt characters had some depth and writer will deal with them appropriately and will show the audience various layers of their nature and beliefs. But as usual Writer was unable to do so. Comedy had potential but later it all wore off.

The Combi of Seo Yul and Chief Kim was there for Giggles and didn't serve much.

If entertainment is the Only significant Criteria then this show score A Grade. That's it.

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Also if there ever is a second season i will watch it. hehe.

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tbh I liked the show and its characters but I agree with you. It dragged so much! I honestly got soooo bored with the corruption plot. I wish there was a romance to balance it out - preferably between Ha-kyung and Seong Ryung

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So any show that you classified as B+ above? Just curious.

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On the contrary, I actually thought this was one of the few kdramas where the characters were actually portrayed NOT as incompetent, and it's part of why I like the show so much lol. Rather than being idiots, it's more that the good guys were up against baddies who don't play fair. Much like the real world, there's only so much you can do when corruption is involved and you're just a normal office worker. I really appreciate the fact that the Business Operations department were all good people doing their job well, they were just powerless.

And even Prosecutor Han, he may be slow on the uptake, but he's certainly not incompetent. He couldn't get TQ not because he lacked evidence but because he was against corrupter higher ups who'd shut him down no matter what he came up with. That was why Yul left in the first place because playing fair didn't get him anywhere. That's why they needed people like SR and Yul on their side, people who know how to play dirty for the right reasons.

Anyway, of course it's all up to personal opinions.

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Couldn't agree more! I felt like the show dragged on a lot and I actually cringed when the team would do their cutesy but cheesy banter.

I definitely feel like NamGoong Min and Junho carried the show. I would have dropped it if I hadn't loved them in it.

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Chief Kim - checked. I expected Namgung Min to act well. At the beginning I thought he fell into some sort of type-cast, his character was a bit too similar to Ahn Dan-Tae, but he is expected to do well.
Yul - checked. Albeit a surprise. A pleasant one. I haven't seen his previous roles and I know that are some idols who can really act (I watch Fater is Strange especially for another idol turned actor). I think Junho can share some tips and tricks with Taecyeon. Just saying.
But Myung-suk was my bae in this drama. That puppy was adorkable! I remember him as Samagwui - dark, with rough edges and undecipherable and Myung-Suk couldn't be more different. The ”I am a good guy but don't let anybody know” kept me watching the show more than anybody. His character seemed one of the more balanced (Chief Kim and Yul were too much sometimes) and I kind of bought his growth from a spoiled arrogant brat to a (too) decent (to be real) human being. This says a lot about the writing too, who treated so nicely side characters too, that most often get ignored. But I wish that this role were Dong Ha's break through and I saw him in more substantial roles, as I think he is able to carry them better than many already there.
Will I miss the show? Uhm... not really-really. I will miss the characters and their bromances and frenemities.

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One of my favorite dramas this year and for sure in a long time...What a great and fun ride this was!!!Seeing Myung Suk being the one to return all the money his Dad stole was such a satisfying move indeed...I also apreciated the 1 year Yul took off to find himself and his new path were he worked as a lawyer(at that Mukso company jajja) and return to work again at TQ because of his own resolution as a lawyer...Loved that small moment bewteen Yul and Sung Ryong were they both complimented each other...Was glad seeing all our dear characters getting their deserved promotions and how their life moved on,with new office couples included...I was a bit sad that Sung Ryong didn't remain in the company working like a normal person there as i think he could do just fine but it was in sync with his quirky personality...I won't lie,i actually belived Yul got together with HaKyung as the way he was looking at her when she entered his office,all hearts and i wouldn't have a problem at all but you never know,at least they became friends now and Yul learned how to share so it's up to each one's interpretation...Loved that little cameo by Lee Shi-Un(was his secretary in Remember)...

It was a fun ride from the start till the end enabbled with heart and lessons aside from the witty humor and more important,the char. felt real,u could resonate with them...U can clearly see the actors really enjoyed this project,Namgong Min was pure of vitality till the end...It's hard to pinpoint a single actor as the whole cast was fantastic,each and everyone had his part and even the small ones shinned yet if i could really say i'll name Junho...He really is amazing in comedy and from now on he will only grow as an actor...I really hope we'll be lucky to see him soon in another great project,i already miss him on my screen(i'll anticipate his japanease abum)...I'm curious now what char. will Namgong Min will tacke next...I hope sometime in the future we'll get a reunion between this two,want to see them again together quite badly!
Yet i hope for a second season!!!

I was a fan of the writer since way before as i loved his God Quiz series a lot but he made me love him even more as i think he is just great with comedy and should really write much more of this witty,sarcastic type as well as i appreciate him for creating competent and amazing heroines that can stand on the same side as our heroes...Each and everyone of our female char. in this story was amazing...Also having so many memorable quotes,that really resonate with the Korean Society and aren't sugar cotted,we like it or not...Kudos to the writer for his courage to bring it out as it is while adding the humor to it...

Hope more people will discover this jem of drama and give it a try...Also Namgong Min and Junho share the bromance of the year and must win a couple award,even the actors anticipate it

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I love how Myung-seok returned that money too! The only redeeming thing about the Chairman is that he produced a son like Myung-seok!

Loved the callback to the of Team Business Operations earlier heroic operations - where they returned the money from the unscrupulous bribers (during the TS Delivery strike storyline)

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Agree about the writer, the irony is that he's a male, a male who wrote a great females characters and the actual female writers, writes bad and annoying typical female characters, such a shame.

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Farewell Chief Kim
Second season please! And this time more romance please!
Come back please, Yul, Ha Kyung, Sung Ryong, Myung Suk, Ga Eun, Prosecutor Han, Madam Jang, Director Chu, Kwong Sook.....
And second chance please to both accountants in jail now...

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Aw, I'll miss this show. I kind of stopped watching Do Bong Soon so I only have Super Family and Father Is Strange left.

I really loved how each character was developed and the changes they made in their lives, but I also liked that D to the O stuck to his greed to the end and never repented, although it made our poor Myungsukkie sad to see his father like that.

Thanks so much for the recaps, hanshimi! I enjoyed them. Hope your next drama is just as good as Chief Kim!

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Thanks for the recap. It was nice going through after finishing the show yesterday because I miss it so much. This show has been filed in my imaginary 'favourites' cabinet. It was so wacky and full of heart and I love love love that Yul and Ha Kyung have something or 'some' going on.

I completely agree that her actions towards him contributed to his change. She was th first one he opened up to and I always loved their interactions. I also appreciated that he never aggressively pursued her or showed jealousy towards Chief Kim. It was just like a puppy crush on his end.

I give this drama a big fat A.

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This show was far from perfect, but I LOVED it despite all its imperfections.

Seung-ryong may have been an over-the-top, exaggerated character but that's the type of comedic role that's so rare these days in dramas and with Nam Goong-min playing him with such finesse, I was so delighted to have a character entertain and surprise me in every scene. Especially when you contrast those loud moments with deeper, more emotional scenes (his talk with Director Chu at the dining table after his first defeat and his finally goodbye with the Business Operations team) where you can see the subtle changes in his facial expressions and the tears welling up in his reddening eyes as he tries so damn hard to control his emotions, those nuances and scenes gave me SO. MUCH. FEELZ.
Someone hand that man an award, ASAP!

As they say, certain books speak to you not necessarily because they're good, but because you can relate to them in certain moments of your life. The same could be said for this drama and why it struck a chord in me. If you're struggling in powerlessness and corruption whether through the government or at the hands of your company and if you're stuck toiling away in tedium at your tiny cubicle, then perhaps this drama can be a remedy for you. Though it's a temporary cure, it'll help you get through the next day. And the next. And the next one after that. Until you begin to learn to look at life from a different perspective and slowly build up a fighting spirit.

A good drama, in my book, is not necessarily one that leaves me on the edge of my seat or one that provides substantial eye candy.
A good drama is one that provides comfort and warm smiles at the end of the day. And Seung-ryong, Yul, Director Chu, & the rest of the team gave me more of that than I ever expected. After long hours of working at an office job (luckily, not in the basement) I detest, I was more than happy to see Seung-ryong's smug face grace my screen at home. I shall miss him dearly!
Aja!

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@Reenz, nicely said. I for one need Chief Kim as a fantasy to hold onto in today's reality. Right will conquer might, won't it? I dream, I dream.

I was thinking that one of the more fantastical parts of the show was Chief Kim's gorgeous work wardrobe (I'm pretty sure the man in the mustard gangster outfit wouldn't be capable of picking out those suits and suspenders). That led me to think, boy we really got gypped out of Nam Goongmin's famous abs in this show (speaking of eye candy) ... and then I remembered that insane shower scene! Let's all file that away for next December in case there's a 2017 Beanie Best Shower Scene Award category ? It surely deserves to win for the view plus creativity, no?

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Ahh, that shower scene! And when he was riding the toy pony in his room! They did a good job of panning out during those scenes for an extra hilarious effect to show was actually going on ? I'm going to miss that parody humor!

Don't forget, Beanie Best Kiss Award should belong to Seung-ryong & Yul!

"Right will conquer might". Well said. I'm just waiting for that to be applied to the buffoonery happening in the American government now...

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ah, Reenz, I see we are in the same country ?

The rocking horse, thanks for the reminder! What a giggle-iferous detail that is. Gosh, this show is just full of them.

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Chief Kim is a super experience but I think more than most kdramas its best was brought out to us only by having really great recappers, so: extra thanks to lovepark and hanshimi! Glad it was fun for you guys, you made it so much "more" for all of us ♥️

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Yes, thank you, lovepark and hanshimi! And Hanshimi, thank you for your final thoughts and the wonderful sendoff you've given this amazing drama!

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Aww. I will truly miss this drama. It gave me such good vibes after watching it. And I dont know when will i ever meet again such gv and healing drama like this. It wasnt truly about the corruption and stuff in tq but always about second chances, and the friendship you made to people you meet. Im just happy for this drama and will surely miss it. ❤

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I like this drama, one of the drama that probably will stay on my memories. This office's drama remind me of misaeng for some reason, the production team brought a great job to touch viewer's heart. Thanks for the recap DB.

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I'm so happy to see Ha Kyung and Yul together at the end because they look comfortable together. It's one of the best thing about the drama that make me interested in watching it in the first place. This drama also introduced me to Jun Ho as an actor and how brilliant he is as Yul. I'll wait for his next project

The ending of Chief Kim is a bit too unrealistic with how well everything ended, but it's still a good and heart warming drama that I'll remember for a long time

And if there's second season I'll definitely watch it :D And please have Yul on board haha

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Did Yul and Ha-kyung actually end up together though?

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It was ambiguous, but I'm sort of leaning on "no" since it doesn't sound like they meet up frequently. They're good friends. Yul has a crush on her, but like the rest of the episodes, he isn't going to do anything about it.

However, I think with Yul going back to TQ, maybe afterwards, Yul and HaKyung will have more chances to meet and fall in love?

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I guess it's up to our interpretation, but the way she entered his office without waiting for approval and Yul having no issues with her listening in on an obviously confidential conversation seems pretty chummy to me. She seems to be pretty in tune to his plans too, and knows what he wants, so I'm on camp dating/close friends. On a sidenote, Yul putting that first slice of pizza on HK's plate is such a cute metaphor for his change. Our gluttonous sociopath finally learned to share aww.

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I think so...it's very subtle and open to interpretation but there are definitely telltale signs that they are seeing each other.

First of all the level of familiarity, Ha Kyung is a frequent visitor of Yul law firm from the way she is all smiles when she enter uninvited and Yul seems to be expecting her. Then they look at each other Ha Kyung smiles bashfully and right after Yul finish his conversation he press his lips together. hmmm am I reading too much into it?

Also in the Chinese translation version. The part where she says he planned to volunteer as a public defender for a year sounds more like they agree that he will work as a public defender. Not too sure if the translator took some liberty with the choice of words there.

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Nope I don't think you're reading too much into it at all. I just shared my opinions on them below before I saw yours. I agree with what you said:)

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I agree with you too. I interpret that scene as them getting much closer than just friends. Because he's talking with a whistler blower and it seems like Ha Kyung knows what or who Yul is talking to. So yeah

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Besides that lovely scene of Ha Kyung and Yul together. Did anyone else catch the name of the law firm Yul was working at? I couldn't stop laughing, so apt

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Yes! Mukso law firm lmaooo and instead of scales there are 2 pizza heads lol. Honestly the puns in this show are the best.

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MUKSO. ROFL. So it was two pizza heads? For a moment I thought I saw two Pacmans XD

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I don't think so. Yul seems to always have a crush for her, but he just taking it slowly. Ha Kyung is always pretty from before, and the way she treated him was like a comfortable friend, not much. I don't see anything that can assume they are dating or Ha Kyung likes him more than a good friend.

The lingering feeling when Chief Kim left the office with Ha Kyung are more meaningful to me. Ha Kyung is more comfortable with him, and even in the earlier episode like what Ahjumma and Gwang Sook said that these two looks like they are more than a colleague. With Yul she is more like a sister or mother nature. That's my opinion. I was OK with the non romance but show keeps hinting here and there, so I was thinking maybe it is better this drama show us who is actually dating whom, if any. lol.

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I was on the Yul-Ha Kyung ship from the start, which then went down in flames and then resurfaced... but the ending was definitely ambiguous for me. I take my cues from the cute jingly song that played when they first met and then again in their last scene together:

'If I could go the distance,
my life would be different,
I can imagine, that's how it happened'.

Throughout the show Yul has gone the distance, his life is now different... the rest we can only imagine.

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First of all, I think the show is bracing itself for a second season... the way they reserve some things for more...

Second, i love how our recapper, hanshimi, phrased the show "giving" ha kyung to Yul...

I think Ha Kyung is not immune to Yul's interests in her. His gawky approach and his anger at being spied on reflected his feelings. And I think she finally opened up to him after he saved SR. The show never revealed much about Ha Kyung's thoughts on love and relationships but I gather that she is a careful person and very much guarded in her feelings.

At this point of time, I don't think they are "dating" like a couple but rather, they are seeing each other frequently... more than just a casual friend.

I don't really know exactly why all of us are rooting for Yul. He is brash, rude, arrogant, selfish etc but I think HK saw something in him, that he is made of something more.

They are quite different but we can all see that it's easy for Yul to fall for her. She is perfect in her pitch, efficient and pretty. And being a compassionate person, she probably can't resist reaching out to him, seeing him a lost boy fighting so hard to protect what's his.

And I see hope for both of them to develop their friendship into something more....

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I forgot to add ... his good looks aka smooth Seoul complexion (as noted by kyung shim in the hospital) helps...

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I'm super late to this party, as I'm only in episode 6 so far. But I'm excited to read that the conclusion of this drama is a happy one. I can't believe how much Namgoong Min has improved over the years. I still remember watching him in INR 3, and was so incredibly bored by his acting. Then I saw him as the antagonist in I can smell something or other, which was so chilling! And then...ahn dan tae, then here. It's delightful to see him improved!!

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Yul's and Myung-suk's flawless HD skin goals.

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This show has the same vibe as History of Salary Man.

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I love how cheerful and optimistic this drama is and the catharsis of seeing good rise up against evil week after week, especially given my feelings about the current political climate in my country. The acting, directing, and writing have been really good and consistent.

I think the consistency comes taking romance out of the equation. I love romance and rom-coms - and the meet-cute and the confessions can give drama viewers the highest of highs, but the part in the romantic storyline when characters encounter conflict (most of it related to people who don't want them to be together) or when a nice 3rd leg of the triangle realizes he/she is out of the game tends to drag down the story in by the end of the 3rd quarter.

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I really enjoyed this show and thought it raised a bar in kdramas as I felt dramas have been getting stale and I haven't watched any in a long time.

There seems like there is a debate with whether Yul and HK ended up together or not. I personally think they did or at least its quite telling to me that there is something more than "friendly" going on. The way she walked into his office was the first clue, like she knocked and didn't even wait for a reply she just came in. And when she opened the door she knew immediately where to look. So that tells me she has been there before. And the way they were looking at each other when he was on the phone...idk it seemed more intimate than before and not just one-sided from Yul but HK seemed to be smitten too.

And so I think that was a lunch date they had. Yul served HK first and he took his time while eating. I don't think Yul's previous eating habits would just change so quickly and not just with anyone. That gives me a clue that they meet and eat together more then just every once in a while. I personally think they might have one of those relationships where they are just taking the romance slow so the viewer has to read in between the lines. Lastly, I think the music bridges the gap that song I don't think hasn't been played since ep 4, Yul has done a full 180 since then so he's ready to "meet the girl". Again this is all my personal thoughts about this subtle scene.

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Yep that ost was def a hint that they either are, or at least in the midst of becoming romantic. And she did look somewhat smitten, and his reaction was adorable as always. Although romance was never a big part of the overall story, I think at least for Yul's own personal development it was.

HK was very much her own person in the beginning and the end of the drama with her own agency, but to an extent I think she also represented a what-if for Yul. What I really liked about their progression was that all throughout the drama Yul had never made a move on her, it was very much a one-sided crush on his end but it's obvious that he knew it was going nowhere with him being the person that he was. That's part of what made his character so likeable to me even when he was a villain, bc from the start he was self-aware and he never bothered her and that's why she was drawn to him too i think.

Anyway tl;dr, Yul changing to be a better man ultimately gave him the chance to get the girl, for lack of a better word bc he's turning into someone that's worthy of her time, bc HK is a badass and deserves the best. Finally how much do I love the soundtrack for these two, from his cute love song to that angst music whenever they meet, the romance may not be played out on screen but I for one think the music spoke volumes.

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Yes, I completely agree. Yul liking HK played a huge part in his personal development. Like in ep 18, Yul kind of ignored Chief Kim's plan until HK told him she was afraid to get to know him. He then seemed to change his mind pretty quickly and decide to partner with Chief Kim and then after the dust settled decide he needed to take some time to become a better person.

I really appreciated HK's patience with him. Most women would have ran for the hills after finding out what he did behind the scenes, his table manners, and even how he treated her own department. But she started approaching him first with dinner then the baseball meetup. She gave him a chance to change.

And yes the soundtrack for these two played such an important part in there few scenes together.

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i want to know about yul's past and his relationship with his minion. i agree with you about ha kyung's patience with seo yul. if I was ha kyung, I want at least seo yul apologize to business operation department

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The GRAY-HAIRED MINION! He remained a mystery until the end, though we did find out he has a name.

Theories? Could he be an immortal guardian of wayward prosecutors? (He did have a walk in the fog to save a burgundy suit in distress).

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Thank you for recapping Chief Kim hanshimi and lovepark. Definitely one of my favorite dramas so far this year. Having watched as many kdramas as I have, for a 20 episode kdrama, I'm totally satisfied with and very impressed by the finale episode.

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Thanks for the recaps guys! It's been a lovely ride, these past few 20 episodes. The show has its flaws as with any other - slow moving plots for instance - but I love it for its heart. Every character contributed to the plot and were competent in their own way. Like you said as well, it was obvious that the cast and crew enjoyed filming this and that enthusiasm added to my enjoyment of the show. It's a shame not all are able to make it for the post drama reward trip.

On a slightly serious note, what a form of catharsis it must be for the Korean people to see corrupt conglomerates and politicians get their just desserts...

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One of the best shows I have watched in these recent years. Not perfect, not flawless, but it is enough for me that the plot was consistent from the beginning until the ending. Not only that, all characters are great! I will be looking forward to see this writer's next drama. Maybe female centric drama next? Because he wrote great female characters in this drama.

Now let's wait until Namgoong Min oppa's next project. He wants to do romance drama, so yesss I want it to. Who comes in your mind for his partner? ? I am currently checking him in WGM, I watched it before but wasn't really paid attention to his part lol.

Junho and Dong Ha - Good luck! I am expecting them to become bigger actor after this, especially Dong Ha. Junho will be busy with his idol activities, I believe. Dong Ha has debuted many years ago, so hopefully this year he can bring home Rookie Award finally.

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I really enjoyed this drama. It had awesome characters and somehow made this overused, boring plot exciting and entertaining. Not to mention it was hilarious af. Namgoong Min is made for comedy.

As for the finale itself: I squealed so hard at Yul and Ha-kyung moment. This seemingly innocent, yet very telling scene between them... Yes, yes, yes!

I got into this drama because of my love for Namgoong Min, but left it with a huge crush on Junho. This guy is so good, seriously! Wonder if he continues to act or focuses on his band? I want a lead for him! ❤

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With 20 episodes, of course Chief Kim would have hit a dull stride somewhere along the way, but I'm impressed at how well they managed to pick up steam after the halfway point, and there are not many shows that could still be exciting in the final four episodes. The show knows what it's about, and it knows what the audience wants and it delivered.

It's not the most innovative of shows, but it's not meant to be and it doesn't have to be. Chief Kim set out to be a lighthearted social commentary, and it stayed faithful to that goal until the end. I love the way the writers managed to keep it light and positive without veering into cheesy or preachy territory, it's such a subtle line to thread and they did it well. And honestly my favourite thing about the show is how true to life the characters are. Most of them aren't purely good, nor are they purely evil They're just normal people living their lives, seeing corruption happen and either ignoring it for self-preservation like the business operations team, or joining in because they've become cynical like Yul and SR. And there are the good people like Prosecutor Han who can't get anywhere without backup.

It's very much a power to the people story, and the lesson that you can always turn back no matter how far you've gone is honestly so important and something I rarely see in kdramas. I LOVE the parallels between SR, Yul and MS. All three of them were at different stages of being bad guys, either through inaction or deliberate choices, but they all got their chance to be good again and that's such a great outcome. I especially love SR's "fake it till you make it" motto, and how Yul adopted it at the end, resigning from TQ because he's not there yet, but he's trying to be.

This show is just so hopeful, I understand why it made such a big wave in Korea. Add in all that tongue-in-cheek humour and irreverant comedy, and it really was a pretty special show. Ultimately I feel like Chief Kim ended up being greater than the sum of its parts, it's not perfect yeah, but it's still pretty great. Too bad it didn't really reach international viewers, but I get it tho. Kdrama is still very much a niche area in the international community, and romance is still a must-have for most watchers.

And finally, hats off the Nam Goong Min because he really made Sung Ryong one-of-a-kind. SR is a little crazy, a little larger than life, and exactly what is needed to push everyone out of their comfort zones and instigate a fight. Love him. Give him a 2nd Daesang already. Also, the cast for this drama is exceptionally strong but I'm seriously impressed with Junho, for such a rookie actor to go toe to toe with NGM and not fall short is commendable, and I really hope he gets the Rookie Award. But like Yul said, it's only April so they probably won't lol.

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NGM received a Daesang before? I cannot remember it. I remember he was nominated for Daesang but didnt get it.

I am rooting for him to get his daesang too in KBS Award. He really owns Chief Kim character. This guy really good in making his characters as his own. I am expecting Junho and Dongha to win at least Rookie Actors this year. Since KBS always generous in giving awards, I think it won't be problem.

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Oh, I thought he won the Daesang but apparently it was an excellence award. But seriously he deserves it, for the sheer reason that he really brought laughter and hope every week to Korean households, especially considering their political scenario.

Hopefully KBS will be generously awarding Chief Kim then, NGM and Junho especially, and Dongha too. I don't think anyone would have thought this show was going to be the hit it became, and these two definitely played a big part in that. Come on KBS, your leads can't even join their well earned vacation, at least compensate them with year ends awards lol.

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Aww, I loved this show!

I really enjoyed watching it and I think the cast had fun filming it, it was filled with so much laughter and heart. Namgoong Min was perfect as Chief Kim, I can't think of anyone who could've done it better. He is the actor to go to for a quirky character like this, I never thought anyone could top Andante but Chief kim beats that, the waiting room episodes still make me roll on the floor laughing and I mean LITERALLY. This has to be the funniest show I've ever watched and I think I'll keep coming back to it everytime I need funny in my life.

Myung-seokie! How adorable was he?! Just so so freaking adorable!

Thank you for all the recaps and comments guys, read them all just didn't have time to join you, I'm gonna miss this show.

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This is one drama who really made the episode extension work for them. I love that the producers and writers chose to wrap up character storylines in stead of fussing with the plot.

Needless to say, I loved the finale. It did not disappoint at all, instead, it left me feeling all bittersweet because now by Thursday/Fridays will not be filled with anticipation waiting for the subbed episodes to drop! ;)

First and foremost, Yul and Ha-kyung. SWEET BABY CHEESUS. My shipper heart upped and went to heaven over their cute final scenes! We don't know if they are dating, but how cute is that they are good enough friends to meet and eat with each other? Also, I think this scene blessed us with Yul in a round-neck tee. PRAISE THE LORD. He looked so cute!

Sung Ryong leaving the BO team was definitely sad but it also made sense. He's far more at home in Gunsan, with his adorably goofy clothes and attitude. TQ was a pitstop for him, one where he learned that he could go beyond his defined self, if he ever needed too. He can be more than just a crooked accountant from Gunsan, which is a lesson I think he needed to know.

Similar to Sung Ryong, I love how Yul as well turned in his papers. While Sung Ryong left because he knew his work was done, Yul needed to leave because I think he needed to find meaning in his work again. And he seems to have found it being a public defender! When Ha Kyung asked him to consider the CFO position, I was worried he wouldn't. But when he did apply and show himself to Chairman Jang, I was so thrilled!

How cute is it that Kwang-sook is now working at TQ? The accounting department could do with a cheery addition like her! And Sang-tae is honestly, the cutest and most supportive boyfriend. His fist pumps on her behalf. MY GAWD. Those two are like cupcakes!

My one moment of horror came during the time when Myung Seok went to meet his Dad and raised his voice against his Mom. My heart was in my throat and I actually had to pause the ep cause I was worried that Myung Seok would do something wrong. I was so relieved when he did the right thing after all! Myung Seok is all grown up now, and I'm sure he must be ably helping his Mum and learning the ropes.

Chairman Park is an absolute asshole, pardon my language. The actor did a great job of portraying him because he makes me want to push the character of a bridge. I felt a little bad for Executive Director Jo when he so readily threw her under the bus. I'm so glad Yul got to her and helped her cut a deal!

Aw, and look at Director Chu, being a honest executive. Also, his family came back!! :')

I was giggling at the sugar-sweet scene between Sung Ryong and Yul. How much do you want to bet that they occasionally keep in touch to bicker like kids?

All in all, this was a satisfying finale. I loved every minute of it and Chief Kim for me at least has become a drama that I can rewatch again, whenever I need a pick me up.

10/10 would always recommend!

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I also wanted to add my two cents about the Yul/Ha-Kyung equation, so here goes?

First and foremost, do I think they are dating? No. At least, not as yet.

But Ha-Kyung going to meet Yul and actually discuss his future plans with him, I consider that telling. First of all, they both seemed pretty thrilled to be meeting each other. Secondly, if Ha-Kyung knows what he's been up to, then I assume they must be meeting fairly regularly. I don't think Yul's crush for her has dimmed at all. In fact, the very fact that he serves her a slice of pizza first is so cute and so telling. Yul almost always never shares food. Sharing food and thinking of other's eating before he does is a very big step for him. I feel like that indicates that Yul does care. VERY deeply.

Also, I think Yul has been fairly considerate of Ha-Kyung's feelings so far. Yes, he was interested and has been nursing a crush, but he never forced Ha-Kyung to reciprocate his feelings. Even during his time as a public defender, he's maintained a friendship with Ha-kyung. I feel like he's leaving the romantic side up to her. If she does want to make a move, and who knows, she might once he joins TQ, he will be there. Until then, I think he's content to enjoy her friendship.

Also, I think Ha-Kyung needed that one year to know Yul more as a person. When he was at TQ, she knew him as the Director who turned good but that's all. I don't think she could have developed any feelings at that point. But once he's out of TQ and doing his own thing, she can appreciate him for his own merits, which makes a possible romantic relationship all the more sweeter.

And I know this all pure conjecture, but to summarize: I dont think Yul and Ha-Kyung are dating currently but I do think they do have a relationship that could turn into something more down the line. HOORAY for slowburn romances that grow surely but sweetly. :)

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Haha, we suffered so much when it seemed Yul would never have a chance with Ha Kyung right? That shipped seemed to be doomed... but then the hospital, baseball, and now pizza scenes sent our hopes back up. So yes, I'm on board your interpretation: they are not dating now but are definitely good friends, and there were enough clues (music! sharing pizza!) to suggest they might in the future.

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The show did give us a lot of uncertainty. Sometimes they were really generous with the Yul/Ha-Kyung scenes and something, not a peep about them. I had given up hope by the middle of the show. But by the time the final few episodes rolled around, my hopes were way back up. :D

I'm glad we got some closure about these two. This way, at least we can assume what happens in the future as shippers! ;)

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'Also, I think this scene blessed us with Yul in a round-neck tee'. I almost want to yell and faint when I see yul in that shirt. so smart!

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He did look so cute! Like fresh and casual! :)

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He looks so good in that tee! Yellsss

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This was a sweet gem, it was my comic relief for sure and for that I'll certainly miss it!! Namgoong Min did a wonderful job, I never thought he could top any of his previous characters but he surely did!!!! He's in pretty good shape for a 39 year old...all the shouting on top of his lungs and other antics he had to do maan he is pretty fit...hats off to him

I really hope he wins something for this role because he surely deserves it...and I look forward to seeing what his next role will be...

This was a great ensemble cast!!! I will also miss our gluttonous Yul and I hope to see more of him in dramaland!!! his chemistry with Namgoong Min was perfect!!! I dont mind seeing these two doing something else together maybe a cop show or something...
2017 is certainly the year of bromances first in Goblin and now this!

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Very well written show, from beginning to end, it never lagged, and the finale was very satisfying.
Namgoong Min was very good, as expected, although I disliked the cartoonish exaggeration chosen for this role. I would tone it down a notch. He didn't have to frown so much - at the end of this drama he will have several new deep wrinkles on his forehead. And oh the carrot-coloured hair...

I loved the relationships of Chief Kim with three other men of different ages: Seo Yool, Director Chu and Myung-suk, the Chairman’s son. Meaningful details, glances, heartwarming scenes showcased the deep feelings of affection and trust that these people slowly developed for each other.
It helped that Junho was a wonderful surprise in his acting, and Kim Won Hae was just FANTASTIC as Director Chu. His sad eyes and half smile were heartbreaking. I think his performance here should skyrocket his career and I think more meaty roles will come his way from now on: and no, I don't mean the kind of silly slapstick comedy and gruesome appearance he's been given in Strong Woman Bok Soon).
Kim Won Hae's scenes with Namgoong Min were jewels which raised the show's level and infused it with real humanity, to balance out the laughs in other scenes.
Junho is also commendable because he could stand alongside a stellar actor such as Namgoong Min without losing out or paling in comparison. This is no small feat!

I loved that there was no romance for Chief Kim and Yoon Ha Kyung, because there was zero chemistry between them. The writer had started something (remember when an old acquaintance of Chief Kim’s was constantly taking her to be his wife etc.), but he saw the lack of interest in such a love line, and he also maybe listened to us. On the other hand, there could be something more with cute Prosecutor, who was visibly smitten with him too, but again nothing. But in this case I really didn’t mind, love was not important in this context, and it would ruin the concept of him going back to his hometown as she couldn't be expected to ruin her career to follow him there.

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I agree with your comments on Kim Won Hae. This was the first time I'd seen him as a wise, not annoying character, and I loved it. He showed a range of comedy and pathos that worked very well alongside Namgoong Min, plus some crazy cooking skills.

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Oh, I made a mistake. On second viewing while translating ep.20, I realized he doesn't go back to Gunsan, the two nightclubs he manages are in Gangbuk, Seoul. So there would be no issue, he can still meet the others easily.

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Thank you recappers and commenters for this wonderful ride. There was never much to analyse but we got to express our random lists of LOL moments. We didn't quite know what we were in for in the beginning, and didn't always know where we were going.

For me, there was a bump around episode 11 when I was disappointed that the characters weren't living up to expectations (hello, can't the genius be a bit smart?), but around episode 13 I released the writers had a plan. At that point I just let the show take me wherever it wanted, and it did not disappoint. Everyone seemed to have fun making the drama, which clearly showed even with little details like MUKSO LAW FIRM. This was such a team effort on all fronts, congrats cast and crew!

The heart of the show was SR+Yul, so I'll say it again: I wish we'd seen them working together more than only 2 episodes. Yul seemed like a child set free on a playground. He was doing the same as always, outwitting opponents, but without the bullying. And looking like he enjoyed it immensely. *Slam dunk high five!* Junho was a revelation, as was Dong Ha.

For a show that seemed 'fantastic', it was quite realistic in dealing with the Chairman. He never regretted being corrupt and never acknowledged his crimes. On the other hand, I would have liked to see less of unrepentant Chairman and more wrapping up of our character relationships and sending them off into the future. It's my only critique of the finale episode, which is a greedy point. I just wanted more.

No final scene of our Gluttonous and Psycho duo in matching sunglasses? I was sad that it seemed they parted ways. And seriously, Myung-Suk's last scene was of him holding back tears? (NO! Don't cry puppy!!) Did he stay or leave Business Operations? Were Yul and Ha Kyung dating or not? What happened to the Minion? I guess I wasn't ready for this to end. *sob* Goodbye Chief Kim, thanks for everything!

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I will keep wishing that KBS surprise us next week there will be 2 more episodes of Chief Kim. Until Wed comes, one can always dream~~~

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Hanshimi, your ending review brought tears to my eyes!
Thank you for your insights and recaps. To be honest, reading the recaps, I always felt that the recappers didn't really love the drama as much as I did and found faults where I saw none. I'm also biased because I just loved every single moment of Chief Kim. But, just as Hanshimi was brought out of their "cynicism," through this final review, so was I.

Thanks again for the recap! I will definitely be re-watching this drama!

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Chief Kim may not be flawless, but it offers refreshing and satisfying character developments. One thing that I like from this drama is no jealously girl-fighting over a man, CK shows that admiration to a man (SR) instead can lead female characters to have closer friendship like what HK, KS, and GE have.

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Others have said it, but I simply must say it again, SR and Yul better win best couple of the year or there is something terribly wrong with the world.

It's going to take something truly outstanding to top this, in my mind. Seriously, why can't all dramas be this good?

It wins best drama of the year for me, (even though it's only April) unless, of course, Man-to-Man is even more bromantic, which I would love but don't really expect. Prove me wrong drama!

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Between Chief Kim & Goblin bromances, I think Chief Kim wins by margins. Their petty bickering and childish antics are so hilarious, made me cracking from the beginning til the end. Even when they were in such tight animosity moments, they are cracking. I will remember the scene where Yul were berating Sungryeong all the while throwing his precious fries (well, in this case they're his precious fries given his greed and obsessions over foods, besides power of course) to SR's face. LOL! Who can forget about SR 3 kisses to Yul? HAHAHAHAHA! But of all those craziness, our scene stealer Dong Ha's Myungseok was the best. The one who everyone thought as TQ's timid, useless, spineless Chairman Park Spawn was actually the hero that saved the day! His Tanzania moments were priceless hahahaha.. He's such a cutie! He's my fave actually.
All in all, all the characters are tantamount to a successful drama plot. No matter how small and insignificant they may, they're crucial to the development of the entire story line. There wasn't any moment that their characters will appear in a particular scene & it ended there. There are continuation of their characters that gradually serves their purpose. I am actually glad that the drama shied away from focusing too much on leads' love lives but rather focusing more on conglomerates corruptions and issues concerning white/blue collars workers. It is relatable to a wider spectrum of audiences. I like these kind of real dramas, the kinds that not selling too much on love-triangles premises. I hope many more dramas like Chief Kim, Signal, The Defendant, Oh My Geum Bi, Hello Monster just to name a few will be produced.

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other than CK, what is the best worth watching kdrama that doesnt have kiss scene?

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This show will be dearly missed! I love this show from the start to the end! It's a fun ride. I love all the characters played important roles in tackling down the Chairman's corruption, even Ajumma Uhm is the one who had Chief Lee's key. I love how every character has grown, and Myung-suk is my favorite. This show showed me the importance of teamwork. In order the team to work, we really need a good manager.

And, SR's smug grin at the end, just gives me hope for Season 2!

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I like the show so much. I hope that Nam Goongmin & Junho got the best couple award. They have the best chemistry (yet). I also hope that Kim Wonhae got an award for job well done.

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Commenting late because i couldn't bring myself to read the final recap. T_T

First of all, THANK YOU TO THE RECAPPERS for recapping this show! I really enjoyed reading the recaps and comments after watching every episode.

This show is really fun and heart-warming. What a fun ride! I laughed, cried and squealed during those times. The development of each character was so great, I... :')

No (main) romance is one of the things I loved about this show. In fact, the casts' goal was not to include it at their first reading and the director liked the idea. Glad it was a success. :D

Namgoong Min is really a versatile actor, but I am really glad that Lee Junho has made a name for himself as a true actor through this show. And then there are Nam Sang Mi, Kim Won Hae, and others, their friendship are just :')

Chief Kim is definitely one of my favourites now, and though it's only April, I am really hoping that this show will swipe up lots of awards, especially the couple award for Sungryung-Yul's bromance. xD

Thank you, show, for giving us a really enjoyable show. I have really laughed and enjoyed every episode in a long time!

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Last sentence typo: I have never**

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This final thread is so sweet with everyone saying their goodbyes to a treasured show. :)

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Yes, goodbye to one good show.

I used to comment negatively about Chief Kim in one of the websites in my country, but I'd like to take that back. Chief Kim is a good show. It's by no means flawless, but it's one good show. There are many things that I think are unrealistic. However, when I watched till the end I got the answer for myself. It can never be realistic because it did not intend to be so from the beginning. Instead, it brings with it many good lessons to the viewers. Some might think these lessons are naive and idealistic, but isn't the world a worthy place to live if some part of us are still "stubbornly optimistic" about it and the people who live in it?

Myong-Suk is my little puppy and my gen. I enjoyed almost every scene he acted in except for one. I don't really like his last scene with his father. I saw him crying and I think that was a bit too much.. how would he suppose to feel when his birth father asked him the question "how do you feel to become a decent human at the expense of your father?" For me that is a bit too cruel.. Myong-Suk has done good till the end but that was his last scene. Felt bad for him tbh.

Nan Goong Min is superb as usual. Please give him some awards and recognition. For me NGM and Joo Won are the two actors I particularly love. They are such talented actors. They played roles and never disappointed me. Thumbs up for all the cast and crew. You guys have done a good job!

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I love this drama!

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aww, i was late jumping onto this wagon - thats the only regret i have!

The series was all i wanted and more and is definitely going down on my list of most memorable drama.

Nam Goong Min was brilliant as usual but Junho! what a stellar performance that was. I loved the bromance keke.
It dragged in a few places, but nothing it didn't redeem. I actually liked that the show didn't focus much on the romantic angles. I also like how the romance hinted at a Yul-Yoon combo instead of with Kim. Its somehow more believable Kim would remain a person Yoon would admire and respect. It was a breath of fresh air and could have easily gone into the been-there-done-that territory. Also worth a special mention is the relationship Kim shares with the General Manager - the little things, just adorbs.

Miss you, much love <3

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Even though this drama finished a few weeks ago... I just had to come on to add my praise.
I binge watched this over the course of a week. I was skeptical at first because it was 20 episodes... and it's about taxes... like.. c'mon... how can this last for 20 episodes. But I gave it a go since it seems to have gotten good ratings. Man... I just felt like there was never a time where the plot dragged! I was so intrigued, in fact I wish there was a side bar to explain to me all the tax stuff!

The world was so big, I almost... ALMOST want them to go longer so that the side stories can have their own chance to develop a bit... but it's okay. This was wonderful!

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I may have watched it after its run but no regrets here! I love our Montley Crew and the way it ended.

Totally agree about the part that the Show 'gave' HK to Yul. I really love that part of the Show. Although I wanted the guys to apply for the CFO and meet at Madam's office together or maybe see them in one screen after everything, I'm still satisfied with the way it ended.

I'll be here imagining stuff that Yul and Sung-ryong met for some suju or pizza. Or when someone from the crew gets married, a reunion is there. Yes, I'll be continuing the story in my very own imaginary world of Chief Kim. Pretty sure I will be skipping work to watch this little gem again.

Thanks to the recappers. I really enjoyed reading it as I was watching the Show!

Hoping that each beanie who watched the Show gets to live their own Chief Kim.

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Way late to the party because I couldn't cram CHIEF KIM into my live-watching schedule. I'm so glad I waited until I had a breather and could give this show the attention it deserves. ;-)

Aside from the heady brew of laughter therapy CHIEF KIM served up -- including the epic bromance between Sung-ryong and Yul -- the redemptive arcs were truly my cup of tea. I looked forward to each and every episode, and was not disappointed.

I've got a case of major whiplash from Namgung Min as I recall that the first drama I saw him in was the sageuk GU AM HEO JOON. Talk about a chameleon. I've seen him in several other productions since then (WILD CHIVES AND SOY BEAN SOUP; ONE FINE DAY; CAN YOU HEAR MY HEART?), and have enjoyed his performances in each of them. His comedic timing is terrific, but it's his expressive range that mesmerizes me.

The supporting cast is marvelous. Junho is a revelation in the role of Yul. His ability to go toe-to-toe with NGM and return his volleys is the bee's knees. As for Dong Ha as chaebol heir Myung-suk who straightens up and flies right, I didn't even recognize him from his earlier roles in BEAUTIFUL MIND and MY LOVE EUNG-DONG. Kim Won-hae is terrific as the beleaguered Business Operations manager who perseveres through corporate and family trials.

All in all, a satisfyingly cracktastic watch. I needed some belly laughs after a bunch of my thriller live-watches ended with tragic body counts. With SEVEN DAY QUEEN about to conclude, I need all the help I can get, and CHIEF KIM delivered bromance, levity, optimism, and redemption in spades. ;-)

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That was fun. I'm hooked on romances right now, and I didn't think I'd like this, but I really enjoyed it after I gave it a chance. Good performances.

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