One Way Trip

As the sun rises over the sleepy town, casting a warm glow over the streets, Yong-bi, Ji-gong, Sang-woo, and Doo-man set off on their highly anticipated trip to Pohang. The four friends, all twenty years young and bursting with the exuberance of youth, have been friends for as long as they can remember. They're about to embark on a journey of self-discovery, camaraderie, and memories that will last a lifetime, knowing that the next day will change everything forever. Sang-woo, the group's de facto leader and one of the most level-headed, has made the difficult decision to enlist in the marine corps. The impending enlistment serves as a poignant reminder of the stark contrast between their innocent, youthful lives and the harsh realities that lie ahead. Their trip to Pohang is a fleeting opportunity to revel in the comfort of friendship and make lasting memories before Sang-woo ships out. As they hit the open road, the friends' excitement and anticipation are palpable. Yong-bi enthusiastically navigates the twists and turns of the coastal road while Ji-gong and Sang-woo engage in a heated debate about their favorite baseball teams. Doo-man, the quiet and observant of the group, takes in the scenic views and watches the passing countryside with a sense of wonder. Their journey takes them through rolling hills, picturesque villages, and bustling cities, offering a glimpse into the vast expanse of Korea's rich cultural heritage. The friends marvel at the stunning scenery, indulge in lively conversations, and savor the freedom that comes with exploring the open road. However, as they approach the midpoint of their trip, the atmosphere shifts. Yong-bi, usually the epitome of calm and collected, becomes increasingly agitated behind the wheel. Ji-gong, who's been quietly observing the tension build, tries to intervene, but Yong-bi insists on taking the scenic route, citing a desire to enjoy the views. As tensions escalate, Sang-woo steps in to mediate, reminding the group of their ultimate goal – to reach Pohang before nightfall and bid farewell to the carefree days of their youth. Doo-man, who's been quietly observing the conflict, takes a moment to step out of the vehicle, gazing out at the landscape with a mix of nostalgia and melancholy. Just as it seems the group is starting to relax, a shocking and life-altering incident occurs. A group of armed robbers, seemingly out of nowhere, pulls over the friends, leaving them no choice but to comply. The group is taken hostage, and in a heart-stopping moment, one of the robbers demands they open the trunk. Yong-bi, still shaken by the sudden turn of events, attempts to reason with the leader, pleading with him to reconsider his actions. However, it's too late. In a flash of violence, one of the robbers opens fire, taking Sang-woo's life in front of his shocked and horror-stricken friends. The world around the group seems to come crashing down as they're left reeling from the tragedy. Ji-gong's screams echo through the deserted highway as he frantically tries to reach Sang-woo, only to be met with an unwelcome reality. Doo-man, consumed by grief and despair, falls to his knees beside Sang-woo's lifeless body, mourning the loss of their friend and the innocence that has been ripped away from them. Yong-bi, paralyzed by shock and pain, seems to be trapped in a waking nightmare. The sounds of the highway, once filled with the sweet songs of their collective laughter and camaraderie, now ring with the haunting cries of despair and sorrow. As the group stands frozen in grief, the armed robbers, realizing the severity of their actions, quickly depart the scene, leaving the friends to grapple with the trauma they've endured. The once-thrilling journey to Pohang has turned into a heart-wrenching, irreversible descent into chaos and loss. As the friends stand together, holding each other for support, they realize that nothing will ever be the same again. Their carefree days are behind them, and the harsh realities of life have forced them to grow up too quickly. Their journey, once a vibrant tapestry of laughter, adventure, and shared experiences, has been irreparably altered by the cruel hand of fate. The friends, now forever changed by the weight of their loss, stand on the cusp of a new reality – one that will force them to confront their grief, their fears, and their newfound understanding of the fragility of life itself.