Side Story 19
The last side story: Twelve years later (1)
Within the ranks of the Central Region Precinct's Violent Crimes Unit, there was this one detective nicknamed the 'Phantom'.
The newbie detective joining the squad this year after passing the promotion exam, Lee Seh-Hwan, often heard this rumour while he was walking the beat as a patrolman.
The arrest rate of 200 percent!
The rumour went that, in front of this 'Phantom' capable of solving not just the cases in his own docket, but even the cold cases of the past, every single violent criminal or bloodthirsty thug would become a very well-behaved sheep in an instant.
To the officers patrolling these streets, this detective remained an object of pure respect, a real bonafide legendary figure.
Seriously now, the rumour even went on to say that, although he was eligible for a promotion, he wished to devote himself fully to fieldwork and refused to move up the career ladder. How hardcore was that?
TL: In Korea, people who are very quick on the uptake or possess extraordinarily keen insight are often referred to as 'being like a ghost/phantom', hence our MC's nickname. Also, in case you don't know, it used to be customary to shout “Loyalty” when performing salutes in South Korean military. Can't remember if they still do it, though.