The film based on the true story of Kim Gwang-seon, a mineworker who survived a collapse of Gubong Mine in August 22, 1967. The story focuses on the importance of saving a life, and the survivors' will to live.

Infighting breaks out between factions of the Communist Party over whether to back the U.N. Trusteeship under which the Korean Peninsula is to be divided between U.S. and Soviet control. One faction hires a hit man to kill the leader of the opposing faction. The hit man is known as the best in his field, yet is also known for having a heart.