Cheap Tricks

Han Woon-Sook showed genuine interest and asked, "What kind of technology is it?"

Upon hearing Lee Han's translation, Shin elaborated, "It's the IoT, or Internet of Things—a network of interconnected physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enables them to collect and exchange data over the internet."

Lee Han conveyed Shin's explanation to Han Woon-Sook, who learned that the technology involved sensors and microcontrollers—low-power chips processing data from sensors and controlling connected devices.

"We've already integrated this technology into our software, allowing communication through specific protocols. Just last year, we successfully incorporated IoT technologies into our industrial equipment and inventory management," Shin added.

Upon hearing Lee Han's translation, Han Woon-Sook remarked, "This technology seems incredibly useful." Simultaneously, he couldn't help but express admiration for Japanese innovations in technology.

"We always seem to be playing catch-up. Even a relatively recent company like KiShin has advanced significantly in just a few years," Han Woon-Sook pondered. His thoughts also drifted towards the utility of the technology introduced by Shinro Suzuki to his electronic products.

Han Woon-Sook found himself in a quandary, struggling to decline these enticing technologies. SamStar, being a corporation aiming to rival Japanese companies in technology, sought global technological advancement. Faced with the prospect of a technology that could propel SamStar toward this lofty goal, Han Woon-Sook felt the pull to agree with Shinro Suzuki's proposal.

Observing Han Woon-Sook's conflicted expression, Shinro Suzuki smiled. He was aware of SamStar's active research and development in various technologies integral to IoT—sensor technology, microcontrollers, and communication protocols.

Understanding that Han Woon-Sook likely had these considerations in mind, Shinro knew the significance of KiShin's IoT technology to SamStar's ongoing research and development efforts.

Speaking to Lee Han, Han Woon-Sook instructed, "Lee-Ryu, assist me in negotiating with this young man." Aware that Shin couldn't comprehend Korean, he relayed the message to Lee Han.

Lee Han furrowed his brows while looking at Han Woon-Sook and asked, "What do you mean?"

Han Woon-Sook responded with an indifferent expression, saying, "You know what I mean. Assist me in securing the best deal in negotiations with the young man... You're from the Han Family, after all."

While Han Woon-Sook spoke, Shin anticipated Lee Han's translation but noticed him frowning. Unable to comprehend Han Woon-Sook's words, Shin observed, waiting to understand Han Woon-Sook's intentions.

"I apologize, Mr. Han Woon-Sook. In business negotiations like this, familial ties hold no sway. Moreover, having worked in Mr. Suzuki's company, my commitment is to secure the best deal for KiShin, not because of family connections but due to my role as a senior executive," Lee Han explained. Pausing, he added, "I am the Chief Operating Officer of KiShin Rules—not family, not your cousin."

Upon hearing this, Han Woon-Sook frowned at Lee Han, remarking, "You place excessive trust in this Japanese company. It appears you've forgotten their actions against our land, our people, and our parents, grandparents."

Lee Han's expression turned serious as he asserted, "KiShin has no connection to that. Let's refocus on the business talks."

Han Woon-Sook remarked, "Trusting outsiders, especially foreigners, over your own people and family is a grave mistake."

"I'd rather trust Mr. Suzuki and his company than you or your corporation," Lee Han replied with a hint of contempt.

Han Woon-Sook frowned, cautioning, "KiShin will discard you once you're no longer useful. Consider this carefully, Lee-Ryu. Would you truly be more loyal to young Suzuki than to me, your own cousin?"

Lee Han smiled confidently, countering, "Don't worry. Mr. Suzuki is unlike you, and KiShin is not akin to your company. I know this from my experience working with them."

Han Woon-Sook's expression darkened, questioning, "Are you still harboring grudges against us from the past?" He scrutinized Lee Han, who remained emotionally composed, continuing, "It seems your grudges have clouded your judgment, or KiShin has deceived you with position and a high salary."

"Think what you will. Let's return to the business at hand. It's unrelated to emotions; it's purely business," Lee Han asserted with a smile.

Curious about their conversation, Shin asked Lee Han, "What is he saying, Mr. Han?"

"He wants me to employ tactics against you to secure a better deal in negotiations," Lee Han revealed with a smile.

Shin laughed, responding, "Hahaha, it seems he really wants the technology I presented."

Lee Han nodded, saying, "It's quite effective."

While Shin and Lee Han engaged in a cheerful conversation, Han Woon-Sook observed, unable to comprehend their exchange.

"What are his thoughts on my proposal? Will he agree?" Shin inquired, wanting Lee Han to convey his words to Han Woon-Sook.

Lee Han nodded and translated Shin's inquiry to Han Woon-Sook. After a thoughtful pause, Han Woon-Sook responded, "Let me think about it. I'll consider Mr. Suzuki's proposal." Lee Han conveyed this back to Shin.

Upon hearing Lee Han's translation, Shin smiled and remarked, "It seems RealSoft technologies have truly tempted him. Now we wait." Shin paused, then directed his attention to Lee Han, saying, "Mr. Han, I'd like you to handle the negotiations with the SamStar Group later."

Lee Han appeared surprised but then responded, "But I lack knowledge about that technology, and I'm not familiar with KiShin's cards as you are to fully utilize it in negotiations."

Shin smiled and assured him, "I'll provide you with the files and documents you need for the negotiations."

Looking at Shin, Lee Han questioned, "Do you truly trust that I can perform well in negotiations, especially with SamStar, my family's business?"

Shin replied confidently, "You're not under SamStar; you're under KiShin. I trust your ability to excel in negotiations."

Lee Han, touched by Shin's trust, couldn't help but feel moved.