This is a prequel web novel exploring the backstory of "Itaewon Class," the mega-hit webtoon by author Gwangjin. The protagonist is Jang Dae-hee, the main villain of "Itaewon Class." The story follows Jang Dae-hee's life journey from losing everything in the Korean War to becoming chairman of "Jangga," the nation's top restaurant conglomerate.
Even readers unfamiliar with the "Itaewon Class" webtoon or drama can easily become immersed through the protagonist's gripping survival story as he struggles through a turbulent era. The work has been praised for its cinematic writing and narrative pull, historical accuracy in depicting the period setting, and the quality of its character development.