In the premiere episode of SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Mantis: Murderer's Outing,' aired on the 5th, Jeong I-shin (played by Go Hyun-jung) and Cha Soo-yeol (played by Jang Dong-yoon) reunite after 23 years.
Cha Soo-yeol is forced to confront Jeong I-shin as part of his investigation. Upon seeing her son, Jeong I-shin remarks, "I see you're married now, there's a ring mark," as a form of greeting.
Cha Soo-yeol, however, cuts her off, saying, "Let's skip the personal talk. I'm not here for a family reunion," heightening the tension.
Jeong I-shin, reviewing the case files, denies any wrongdoing, saying, "Trying to do exactly like me, but it's a bit different." Yet, Cha Soo-yeol remains suspicious, provocatively stating, "You must be enjoying the nostalgia, even the smell of blood." Jeong I-shin retorts, "I endured it all, fearing you might go astray. That's how you were born. I like the smell of blood; it's the scent from when you came into this world."
Cha Soo-yeol expresses his frustration to investigation leader Choi Jung-ho (played by Jo Sung-ha), saying, "Whether it's 23 years or 230, she hasn't changed. She's exploiting the system's benefits to buy time at our expense."
The two continue to investigate the crime scene together, searching for clues. Jeong I-shin watches Cha Soo-yeol with a meaningful gaze, and despite the passage of 23 years, the intense psychological conflict and provocation persist, maintaining the tension.
Reporter Na-yeon Jo, TenAsia nybluebook@tenasia.co.kr