Shark: The Storm Episode 1 — Woo-sol Trains, U-hyeong Strikes Fear in the Ring

Shark The Storm episode 1 opens with Woo-sol beginning his day early with a run, narrating the current status of the ex-convict friends we met previously. Woo-sol is rigorously training to become an MMA fighter, Woo-joon is studying to get his high school certificate, and Sang-hyeong has launched a food truck business. Life after prison hasn’t been easy for them, but they’re each taking steps to build a better future.

Woo-sol visits Do-hyun in prison and gives him an update—it’s been six months since his release. Do-hyun expresses concern over Woo-sol’s recent altercation with Seok-chan, warning him to stay cautious and not let his temper create more problems.

Back at the gym, Woo-sol encounters a fellow fighter who insists on using him for sparring. Though reluctant, Woo-sol agrees, and their match escalates until Woo-sol unintentionally breaks the guy’s arm. The coach, infuriated because the injured boxer was scheduled for an important match that same day, lashes out at Woo-sol.

A Mysterious Match and U-hyeong’s Brutal Return

Meanwhile, a private group is alerted to a special underground boxing match. These exclusive spectators are allowed to place high-stakes bets before a grand final fight. Just before the match begins, one of the fighters bails. To fill the slot, the organizers bring in a secret contender.

U-hyeong, introduced mid-swim, calmly steps up as the replacement fighter. His quiet confidence unsettles his opponent, who visibly trembles as the match begins. Feeding off his rival’s fear, U-hyeong overwhelms him. The announcer teases the audience by asking whether U-hyeong’s opponent can last even 30 seconds. The fight ends within 10 seconds, with U-hyeong mercilessly breaking the man’s leg before the time runs out.

Woo-sol Reconnects with Friends and Faces a Proposition

Later, Woo-sol receives a call saying he can return to the gym. On his way, he bumps into Woo-joon, who has been trying to make amends with his past victims. He recently attempted to repay one of them but was turned away. Woo-sol encourages him and the two decide to visit Sang-hyeong’s food truck.

The trio reconnect over food, joking and catching up, until Woo-joon’s teacher Ji-hee unexpectedly arrives. They all clean up the stall together, sharing a moment of lighthearted camaraderie.

Their peaceful moment is interrupted when U-hyeong suddenly appears. With little preamble, he makes Woo-sol an unexpected offer—to work with him, hinting that things are about to get complicated again.