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Got Dropped in a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work
Secretiv_Sorceress · saltgoblin & I_Love_Kim_Soleum
Completed
Horror
4.9
478 chapters
1296 views
A pop-up event for some 'modern fantasy' media I loved so much that I even took a precious day off work to attend. On that day, I ended up transmigrating as a character in that very fantasy world. As none other than a newly hired employee at a famous large corporation! A dream job with great benefits, an excellent salary, and even kind and... Got Dropped in a Ghost Story, Still gotta Work.
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Audio chapters (478) · 1–30
1
Chapter 1
Kim Soleum, an office worker and fan of the viral 'Prophecy of the Apocalypse: Dark Exploration Records' ghost story universe, visits a themed popup store. Despite feeling out of place among teenagers, he manages to purchase merchandise. He decides to participate in a roulette event, hoping for a prize. To his surprise, he hits the first-place prize: a special merch box. The chapter ends as the roulette stops on a thin, golden sliver, signaling his win.
6:36
Chapter 1
Kim Soleum, an office worker and fan of the viral 'Prophecy of the Apocalypse: Dark Exploration Records' ghost story universe, visits a themed popup store. Despite feeling out of place among teenagers, he manages to purchase merchandise. He decides to participate in a roulette event, hoping for a prize. To his surprise, he hits the first-place prize: a special merch box. The chapter ends as the roulette stops on a thin, golden sliver, signaling his win.
6:36
2
Chapter 2
After winning the first-place prize, Kim Soleum receives a custom-made 'Dark Exploration Records' employee ID card via a 3D printer machine. The ID identifies him as a member of the 'Field Exploration Team' at 'Daydream Inc.', a faction known in the wiki as a 'death squad' where members frequently die. As Kim Soleum struggles with the embarrassment of the ID, the staff member's face unnaturally distorts into a wide, terrifying grin. Suddenly, Kim Soleum experiences intense dizziness and wakes up in a different reality: a corporate new employee orientation for Daydream Inc. He realizes he has been transported into the actual universe of the ghost story. He learns that the orientation is actually a deadly survival test to determine full-time employment. As the host announces the start of the evaluation, Kim Soleum attempts to flee but finds himself trapped.
6:38
Chapter 2
After winning the first-place prize, Kim Soleum receives a custom-made 'Dark Exploration Records' employee ID card via a 3D printer machine. The ID identifies him as a member of the 'Field Exploration Team' at 'Daydream Inc.', a faction known in the wiki as a 'death squad' where members frequently die. As Kim Soleum struggles with the embarrassment of the ID, the staff member's face unnaturally distorts into a wide, terrifying grin. Suddenly, Kim Soleum experiences intense dizziness and wakes up in a different reality: a corporate new employee orientation for Daydream Inc. He realizes he has been transported into the actual universe of the ghost story. He learns that the orientation is actually a deadly survival test to determine full-time employment. As the host announces the start of the evaluation, Kim Soleum attempts to flee but finds himself trapped.
6:38
3
Chapter 3
The orientation environment transforms into a desolate subway train, part of the 'Abyss Transpo' ghost story. While most new employees believe it is a high-tech VR simulation, Kim Soleum recognizes it as a high-difficulty 'D-Class Darkness' scenario. An announcement declares the train is at 'Sorrow Station.' Several panicked employees impulsively jump off the train onto the platform. Kim Soleum warns them not to disembark, noting that 'Sorrow Station' does not exist, but his warning is ignored. Immediately after the doors close, silver droplets fall from the ceiling like molten metal, brutally crushing and killing the employees on the platform. As fear spreads among the remaining passengers, Kim Soleum realizes he is trapped in a horror story. Despite his knowledge of the wiki, he reveals his fatal flaw: he is an extreme coward who is terrified of visualized horror.
7:04
Chapter 3
The orientation environment transforms into a desolate subway train, part of the 'Abyss Transpo' ghost story. While most new employees believe it is a high-tech VR simulation, Kim Soleum recognizes it as a high-difficulty 'D-Class Darkness' scenario. An announcement declares the train is at 'Sorrow Station.' Several panicked employees impulsively jump off the train onto the platform. Kim Soleum warns them not to disembark, noting that 'Sorrow Station' does not exist, but his warning is ignored. Immediately after the doors close, silver droplets fall from the ceiling like molten metal, brutally crushing and killing the employees on the platform. As fear spreads among the remaining passengers, Kim Soleum realizes he is trapped in a horror story. Despite his knowledge of the wiki, he reveals his fatal flaw: he is an extreme coward who is terrified of visualized horror.
7:04
4
Chapter 4
Kim Soleum finds himself trapped in the 'Abyss Transpo' ghost story on a subway. He discovers that a black popsocket he purchased at a popup store has transformed into a functional C-Class item: when attached to his smartphone, it displays his memories of the ghost story's wiki as organized text. Using this, he identifies that the station names follow specific trends rather than literal meanings. The train arrives at 'Resentment Station,' but Kim Soleum realizes he cannot exit alone because many subsequent stations are death traps. He decides to build trust with the other eight new hires to ensure a group escape. He begins by conversing with a calm, short-haired woman named Go Youngeun and a timid man named Baek Saheon. Kim Soleum aims to convince the group to follow his lead to avoid the terrifying stations he read about in the records.
7:07
Chapter 4
Kim Soleum finds himself trapped in the 'Abyss Transpo' ghost story on a subway. He discovers that a black popsocket he purchased at a popup store has transformed into a functional C-Class item: when attached to his smartphone, it displays his memories of the ghost story's wiki as organized text. Using this, he identifies that the station names follow specific trends rather than literal meanings. The train arrives at 'Resentment Station,' but Kim Soleum realizes he cannot exit alone because many subsequent stations are death traps. He decides to build trust with the other eight new hires to ensure a group escape. He begins by conversing with a calm, short-haired woman named Go Youngeun and a timid man named Baek Saheon. Kim Soleum aims to convince the group to follow his lead to avoid the terrifying stations he read about in the records.
7:07
5
Chapter 5
The train arrives at 'Euphoria Station.' The platform appears bright and pleasant, causing the panicked passengers to want to disembark. Kim Soleum, recalling the wiki, knows that 'Euphoria' is a trap. He physically blocks the doors to prevent the group from exiting. When challenged by the angry crowd, he argues that they must rely on the subway's announcements rather than luck. He points out that the announcements have been providing instructions all along. Despite the crowd's hostility and demands for responsibility, Kim Soleum maintains his stance, knowing that exiting at Euphoria is a guaranteed death sentence. He manages to convince some passengers to stay, though the tension remains high.
6:26
Chapter 5
The train arrives at 'Euphoria Station.' The platform appears bright and pleasant, causing the panicked passengers to want to disembark. Kim Soleum, recalling the wiki, knows that 'Euphoria' is a trap. He physically blocks the doors to prevent the group from exiting. When challenged by the angry crowd, he argues that they must rely on the subway's announcements rather than luck. He points out that the announcements have been providing instructions all along. Despite the crowd's hostility and demands for responsibility, Kim Soleum maintains his stance, knowing that exiting at Euphoria is a guaranteed death sentence. He manages to convince some passengers to stay, though the tension remains high.
6:26
6
Chapter 6
The consequences of ignoring Kim Soleum's warning are revealed: five or six passengers disembark at Euphoria Station and are instantly fused into the golden, boiling platform floor, leaving only their upper bodies. Back on the train, the passengers are traumatized. Baek Saheon expresses admiration for Kim Soleum's decisiveness. As the train enters a curved section, a violent shaking occurs, and a wet, bursting sound is heard from the front car. When the lights return, the front car is revealed to be a blood-soaked mess of pulverized organisms. The passengers, terrified, try to remain quiet and follow the announcements. A new announcement plays regarding a 'lost item.' Kim Soleum recognizes this as a rare escape case from the wiki. The announcement specifies the lost item is 'the left eye of a type-A male in his twenties.' Kim Soleum realizes that while this is a guaranteed escape, only one person can use it, creating a moral dilemma regarding who should be sent out.
7:30
Chapter 6
The consequences of ignoring Kim Soleum's warning are revealed: five or six passengers disembark at Euphoria Station and are instantly fused into the golden, boiling platform floor, leaving only their upper bodies. Back on the train, the passengers are traumatized. Baek Saheon expresses admiration for Kim Soleum's decisiveness. As the train enters a curved section, a violent shaking occurs, and a wet, bursting sound is heard from the front car. When the lights return, the front car is revealed to be a blood-soaked mess of pulverized organisms. The passengers, terrified, try to remain quiet and follow the announcements. A new announcement plays regarding a 'lost item.' Kim Soleum recognizes this as a rare escape case from the wiki. The announcement specifies the lost item is 'the left eye of a type-A male in his twenties.' Kim Soleum realizes that while this is a guaranteed escape, only one person can use it, creating a moral dilemma regarding who should be sent out.
7:30
7
Chapter 7
During a chaotic ghost story, an announcement reveals a survival method: finding a specific 'lost item' and handing it to station staff at the next stop. The required item is the left eye of a type-A male in his twenties. While the group debates the morality of the request, Baek Saheon—a new hire with a 'Viper' personality—brutally strikes a young man in the eye with his smartphone to secure the item. Baek Saheon then leaps off the train at Anger Station to escape. Kim Soleum, however, discovers a different lost item hidden in the luggage compartment: a female eyeball (Type A, 27, R). To teach Baek Saheon a lesson, Kim Soleum holds the lens case up to the window, letting Baek Saheon see that a non-violent alternative existed. The train departs, leaving Baek Saheon on the platform and the injured man on the train. The chapter ends with the announcement that the lost item was successfully handed over.
6:20
Chapter 7
During a chaotic ghost story, an announcement reveals a survival method: finding a specific 'lost item' and handing it to station staff at the next stop. The required item is the left eye of a type-A male in his twenties. While the group debates the morality of the request, Baek Saheon—a new hire with a 'Viper' personality—brutally strikes a young man in the eye with his smartphone to secure the item. Baek Saheon then leaps off the train at Anger Station to escape. Kim Soleum, however, discovers a different lost item hidden in the luggage compartment: a female eyeball (Type A, 27, R). To teach Baek Saheon a lesson, Kim Soleum holds the lens case up to the window, letting Baek Saheon see that a non-violent alternative existed. The train departs, leaving Baek Saheon on the platform and the injured man on the train. The chapter ends with the announcement that the lost item was successfully handed over.
6:20
8
Chapter 8
The train arrives at Hatred Station. Go Youngeun tends to the injured man, noting his likely corneal damage. Kim Soleum observes that the passengers are looking to him for leadership. Kim Soleum deduces the logic of the 'destination' stations: passengers must disembark at a station representing something they currently lack. He analyzes previous successful escapes (colors, serial killers, illnesses) and unsuccessful ones (body parts, years). He concludes that the current station, 'Serenity Station,' is correct because true serenity—the absence of all worry—is an emotion nearly impossible to experience in this crisis. Despite the terrifying sight of a sea of blood on the platform, Kim Soleum leads the group off the train. Go Youngeun encourages the others to follow. They ascend stairs covered in talisman-like symbols and are suddenly transported back to the lecture hall. Kim Soleum counts seven survivors from his car out of ten. The chapter ends with the announcement of a gift awarding ceremony.
9:49
Chapter 8
The train arrives at Hatred Station. Go Youngeun tends to the injured man, noting his likely corneal damage. Kim Soleum observes that the passengers are looking to him for leadership. Kim Soleum deduces the logic of the 'destination' stations: passengers must disembark at a station representing something they currently lack. He analyzes previous successful escapes (colors, serial killers, illnesses) and unsuccessful ones (body parts, years). He concludes that the current station, 'Serenity Station,' is correct because true serenity—the absence of all worry—is an emotion nearly impossible to experience in this crisis. Despite the terrifying sight of a sea of blood on the platform, Kim Soleum leads the group off the train. Go Youngeun encourages the others to follow. They ascend stairs covered in talisman-like symbols and are suddenly transported back to the lecture hall. Kim Soleum counts seven survivors from his car out of ten. The chapter ends with the announcement of a gift awarding ceremony.
9:49
9
Chapter 9
In the lecture hall, the host conducts a gift ceremony for the 22 successful candidates. Kim Soleum is announced as the top scorer and receives a silver shopping bag containing a plaque and other items. Baek Saheon receives his gift but remains silent and avoids eye contact, visibly affected by his injury. As the ceremony continues, the host reveals a dark truth: those who passed by 'luck' rather than merit are penalized. Suddenly, several people begin to dissolve and vanish. Only 13 people remain, including Kim Soleum, Go Youngeun, Baek Saheon, and the injured man. A panicked survivor asks to resign, but the host reveals the 'carrot' to the 'stick': the company's top benefit. The host presents a shimmering, multicolored liquid in a crystal bottle called the 'Wish Ticket,' which has the power to make any wish come true.
6:22
Chapter 9
In the lecture hall, the host conducts a gift ceremony for the 22 successful candidates. Kim Soleum is announced as the top scorer and receives a silver shopping bag containing a plaque and other items. Baek Saheon receives his gift but remains silent and avoids eye contact, visibly affected by his injury. As the ceremony continues, the host reveals a dark truth: those who passed by 'luck' rather than merit are penalized. Suddenly, several people begin to dissolve and vanish. Only 13 people remain, including Kim Soleum, Go Youngeun, Baek Saheon, and the injured man. A panicked survivor asks to resign, but the host reveals the 'carrot' to the 'stick': the company's top benefit. The host presents a shimmering, multicolored liquid in a crystal bottle called the 'Wish Ticket,' which has the power to make any wish come true.
6:22
10
Chapter 10
In a lecture hall, a host demonstrates the power of a 'Wish Ticket' by drinking one, which causes him to undergo rapid rejuvenation, transforming from a man in his 40s into a youthful high school student. The host claims the Wish Ticket grants any desire, though he notes instructions are in the employee portal. A new hire asks if it can bring the dead back to life, to which the host responds cryptically that it grants any wish if used correctly. The host then instructs new hires to either resign or put on the masks provided in their gift bags. Kim Soleum, realizing the 'Wish Ticket' is his best chance to return to his original world and noting the dangers of the paranormal universe, decides to stay. Upon putting on his mask, it transforms into a bizarre design with antler-like horns and a wood-grain pattern. Kim Soleum notices a mysterious business card stuck to his mask, which he hides. The chapter ends as a 'Dark Exploration Records Real Merch Box' notification appears on his notepad, unlocking new merchandise.
6:22
Chapter 10
In a lecture hall, a host demonstrates the power of a 'Wish Ticket' by drinking one, which causes him to undergo rapid rejuvenation, transforming from a man in his 40s into a youthful high school student. The host claims the Wish Ticket grants any desire, though he notes instructions are in the employee portal. A new hire asks if it can bring the dead back to life, to which the host responds cryptically that it grants any wish if used correctly. The host then instructs new hires to either resign or put on the masks provided in their gift bags. Kim Soleum, realizing the 'Wish Ticket' is his best chance to return to his original world and noting the dangers of the paranormal universe, decides to stay. Upon putting on his mask, it transforms into a bizarre design with antler-like horns and a wood-grain pattern. Kim Soleum notices a mysterious business card stuck to his mask, which he hides. The chapter ends as a 'Dark Exploration Records Real Merch Box' notification appears on his notepad, unlocking new merchandise.
6:22
11
Chapter 11
Kim Soleum discovers his previous life's records have been wiped, leaving only his college history. He utilizes the company housing benefit, moving into a clean officetel. He encounters Go Youngeun, who reveals that many new hires accepted the housing to save money. Kim Soleum discovers his roommate is Baek Saheon, who is wearing a medical eye patch. Baek Saheon aggressively blames Kim Soleum for his lost eye, accusing him of watching him suffer. Kim Soleum, identifying Baek Saheon as a 'Creationist Complainer,' decides to bluff by acting unbothered and even amused, which successfully makes Baek Saheon wary of him. Kim Soleum settles into his room, noting the company's generous benefits seem designed to prevent new hires from quitting after the 'death survival game.' He decides to embrace the benefits to survive.
7:10
Chapter 11
Kim Soleum discovers his previous life's records have been wiped, leaving only his college history. He utilizes the company housing benefit, moving into a clean officetel. He encounters Go Youngeun, who reveals that many new hires accepted the housing to save money. Kim Soleum discovers his roommate is Baek Saheon, who is wearing a medical eye patch. Baek Saheon aggressively blames Kim Soleum for his lost eye, accusing him of watching him suffer. Kim Soleum, identifying Baek Saheon as a 'Creationist Complainer,' decides to bluff by acting unbothered and even amused, which successfully makes Baek Saheon wary of him. Kim Soleum settles into his room, noting the company's generous benefits seem designed to prevent new hires from quitting after the 'death survival game.' He decides to embrace the benefits to survive.
7:10
12
Chapter 12
Kim Soleum finds a diary in his room left by a predecessor, noting the grim reality of corporate life. He uses his floating notepad to unlock new merchandise: a 'Smiley Sticker' that induces mild friendliness in sentient beings when attached to them. He realizes these items are rank-restricted, and his status as a full-time employee has unlocked them. He hides the stickers to avoid trouble. After several days of rest and studying the 'Memorial Popsocket' wiki pages to prepare for work, Monday arrives. Kim Soleum walks to the headquarters with Go Youngeun. He arrives at the 13th floor, assigned to D-Squad of the 15th unit. Upon entering, a man welcomes him to the squad, while a woman with a bob haircut darkly remarks that they are called the 'Death Squad' because all the newbies die.
6:33
Chapter 12
Kim Soleum finds a diary in his room left by a predecessor, noting the grim reality of corporate life. He uses his floating notepad to unlock new merchandise: a 'Smiley Sticker' that induces mild friendliness in sentient beings when attached to them. He realizes these items are rank-restricted, and his status as a full-time employee has unlocked them. He hides the stickers to avoid trouble. After several days of rest and studying the 'Memorial Popsocket' wiki pages to prepare for work, Monday arrives. Kim Soleum walks to the headquarters with Go Youngeun. He arrives at the 13th floor, assigned to D-Squad of the 15th unit. Upon entering, a man welcomes him to the squad, while a woman with a bob haircut darkly remarks that they are called the 'Death Squad' because all the newbies die.
6:33
13
Chapter 13
Kim Soleum begins his first day at Daydream Inc., receiving a warm but blunt welcome from his new colleagues. He learns that being the top of his batch grants him some leniency regarding workplace hazing. While settling into his partitioned workspace, he encounters a 'Twilight-Class Darkness'—a peculiar radio that provides daily fortunes through scratchy traffic reports. His superior, Park Minseong, explains the nature of the company through an orientation video featuring two mascots, a fox and a dragon named Yonyong. The video reveals that Daydream Inc. is a secret organization that harvests 'Dream Essence' from supernatural phenomena (referred to as 'Darkness' or urban legends) to create magical potions. The Field Exploration Team is responsible for collecting this essence using a 'Dream Essence Collector.'
5:56
Chapter 13
Kim Soleum begins his first day at Daydream Inc., receiving a warm but blunt welcome from his new colleagues. He learns that being the top of his batch grants him some leniency regarding workplace hazing. While settling into his partitioned workspace, he encounters a 'Twilight-Class Darkness'—a peculiar radio that provides daily fortunes through scratchy traffic reports. His superior, Park Minseong, explains the nature of the company through an orientation video featuring two mascots, a fox and a dragon named Yonyong. The video reveals that Daydream Inc. is a secret organization that harvests 'Dream Essence' from supernatural phenomena (referred to as 'Darkness' or urban legends) to create magical potions. The Field Exploration Team is responsible for collecting this essence using a 'Dream Essence Collector.'
5:56
14
Chapter 14
Kim Soleum is formally introduced to his team: Assistant Manager Eun Haje and Contractual Supervisor Park Minseong. Both acknowledge the high mortality rate of their profession, with Eun Haje noting that quitting is always an option. Park Minseong advises Kim Soleum to use the term 'Darkness' instead of 'urban legends' to avoid being perceived as an otaku. After reviewing the work manual, Kim Soleum is led to a storage room for his first field experience. Park Minseong provides him with a 'Dream Essence Collector' and instructs him to wear his mask (a roe deer-themed mask). To prepare him, Park Minseong shows him an internet 'balance game' post: choosing between earning 20 million won or living life, specifically involving a three-day game of tag with a grotesque blue ghost in a convenience store.
5:38
Chapter 14
Kim Soleum is formally introduced to his team: Assistant Manager Eun Haje and Contractual Supervisor Park Minseong. Both acknowledge the high mortality rate of their profession, with Eun Haje noting that quitting is always an option. Park Minseong advises Kim Soleum to use the term 'Darkness' instead of 'urban legends' to avoid being perceived as an otaku. After reviewing the work manual, Kim Soleum is led to a storage room for his first field experience. Park Minseong provides him with a 'Dream Essence Collector' and instructs him to wear his mask (a roe deer-themed mask). To prepare him, Park Minseong shows him an internet 'balance game' post: choosing between earning 20 million won or living life, specifically involving a three-day game of tag with a grotesque blue ghost in a convenience store.
5:38
15
Chapter 15
Kim Soleum is thrust into the 'Darkness' of the convenience store ghost story (Qterw-F-243). The environment is cold, damp, and dimly lit by a single drink fridge. Attempting to gather water, Kim Soleum sees the grotesque blue ghost reflected in the fridge glass. Before he can react, a cold, damp hand grabs his neck, causing him to fail the challenge and reset to the starting point. Realizing the mission is an endless loop of resets if caught, he attempts a more cautious approach by hiding under a counter. He hears the ghost's pale, bare feet moving with an unnatural, rhythmic tapping. While hiding and holding his breath, Kim Soleum desperately tries to recall specific exploration records from his studies to find a way to survive the three-day ordeal.
5:54
Chapter 15
Kim Soleum is thrust into the 'Darkness' of the convenience store ghost story (Qterw-F-243). The environment is cold, damp, and dimly lit by a single drink fridge. Attempting to gather water, Kim Soleum sees the grotesque blue ghost reflected in the fridge glass. Before he can react, a cold, damp hand grabs his neck, causing him to fail the challenge and reset to the starting point. Realizing the mission is an endless loop of resets if caught, he attempts a more cautious approach by hiding under a counter. He hears the ghost's pale, bare feet moving with an unnatural, rhythmic tapping. While hiding and holding his breath, Kim Soleum desperately tries to recall specific exploration records from his studies to find a way to survive the three-day ordeal.
5:54
16
Chapter 16
Kim Soleum recalls how anomalies in creepypastas occur when popularity increases, leading to rule-breaking exceptions. He remembers a J-squad exploration in an abandoned hospital where a disconnected phone line prevented a shift-change signal, causing the 12-hour exploration to spiral into a temporal anomaly. Applying this logic to the current convenience store ghost story, Kim realizes there must be a trigger to signal the passage of time. While hiding under a counter, he witnesses a ghost with a bloated blue face pressing buttons on the cash register and emitting a distorted 'calling for assistance' voice. Despite his paralyzing fear, Kim crawls out and bolts toward the entrance. He notices an electronic clock on the glass door and a bell that would alert the ghost. He observes the refrigerated shelves containing perishable items like doshirak and triangle kimbap. He realizes that in a direct internet-based ghost story, the clearest sign of time passing would likely be the expiration dates on these food items.
5:55
Chapter 16
Kim Soleum recalls how anomalies in creepypastas occur when popularity increases, leading to rule-breaking exceptions. He remembers a J-squad exploration in an abandoned hospital where a disconnected phone line prevented a shift-change signal, causing the 12-hour exploration to spiral into a temporal anomaly. Applying this logic to the current convenience store ghost story, Kim realizes there must be a trigger to signal the passage of time. While hiding under a counter, he witnesses a ghost with a bloated blue face pressing buttons on the cash register and emitting a distorted 'calling for assistance' voice. Despite his paralyzing fear, Kim crawls out and bolts toward the entrance. He notices an electronic clock on the glass door and a bell that would alert the ghost. He observes the refrigerated shelves containing perishable items like doshirak and triangle kimbap. He realizes that in a direct internet-based ghost story, the clearest sign of time passing would likely be the expiration dates on these food items.
5:55
17
Chapter 17
Kim Soleum inspects the perishable food, finding a doshirak with an expiration date of April 7th, 12:00—exactly three days from the current start time of April 4th. He approaches the cash register, remembering the ghost's behavior, and successfully uses the 'Date and Time Adjustment' setting to set the store's internal time to April 7th, 11:59 p.m. As he scans the item to trigger the expiration alarm, the ghost's heavy footsteps approach. He frantically completes the registration just as the lights turn on and the store becomes bright. The ghost disappears, and a receipt prints. Upon opening the cash drawer, Kim finds a brown envelope containing 20 million won in 50,000 won bills. Meanwhile, outside the ghost story, two D-squad employees watch from a rooftop, discussing the rookie Kim Soleum. They note his unusual calm and lack of panic during the initiation. Suddenly, Kim Soleum emerges from the tablet, having cleared the story in just 1 hour and 24 minutes, leaving his superiors stunned.
7:12
Chapter 17
Kim Soleum inspects the perishable food, finding a doshirak with an expiration date of April 7th, 12:00—exactly three days from the current start time of April 4th. He approaches the cash register, remembering the ghost's behavior, and successfully uses the 'Date and Time Adjustment' setting to set the store's internal time to April 7th, 11:59 p.m. As he scans the item to trigger the expiration alarm, the ghost's heavy footsteps approach. He frantically completes the registration just as the lights turn on and the store becomes bright. The ghost disappears, and a receipt prints. Upon opening the cash drawer, Kim finds a brown envelope containing 20 million won in 50,000 won bills. Meanwhile, outside the ghost story, two D-squad employees watch from a rooftop, discussing the rookie Kim Soleum. They note his unusual calm and lack of panic during the initiation. Suddenly, Kim Soleum emerges from the tablet, having cleared the story in just 1 hour and 24 minutes, leaving his superiors stunned.
7:12
18
Chapter 18
Back in reality, Assistant Manager Eun and Supervisor Park question Kim Soleum about his rapid escape. Kim explains he 'sped up the time' by manipulating expiration dates. Impressed by his logic, the superiors decide to keep him in the squad. Kim admits he only moved fast because he was terrified, which the superiors interpret as extreme mental fortitude. Eun asks about his earnings; Kim reveals he earned 20 million won. Eun and Park suggest he keep the full amount to bypass company rules regarding the 50% tax on additional income for documented manuals. Kim settles at his desk and accesses the Daydream Inc. Employee Welfare Mall. He earns 100 points for clearing an F-Class story. He discovers the mall offers useful items like robot vacuums and advanced medicines (e.g., cornea regeneration) for relatively low points. However, he notes the 'Wish Ticket' costs 500,000 points, realizing that even clearing an F-Class every day would take 15 years to afford it, suggesting he will eventually need to tackle higher-class stories with a squad.
8:06
Chapter 18
Back in reality, Assistant Manager Eun and Supervisor Park question Kim Soleum about his rapid escape. Kim explains he 'sped up the time' by manipulating expiration dates. Impressed by his logic, the superiors decide to keep him in the squad. Kim admits he only moved fast because he was terrified, which the superiors interpret as extreme mental fortitude. Eun asks about his earnings; Kim reveals he earned 20 million won. Eun and Park suggest he keep the full amount to bypass company rules regarding the 50% tax on additional income for documented manuals. Kim settles at his desk and accesses the Daydream Inc. Employee Welfare Mall. He earns 100 points for clearing an F-Class story. He discovers the mall offers useful items like robot vacuums and advanced medicines (e.g., cornea regeneration) for relatively low points. However, he notes the 'Wish Ticket' costs 500,000 points, realizing that even clearing an F-Class every day would take 15 years to afford it, suggesting he will eventually need to tackle higher-class stories with a squad.
8:06
19
Chapter 19
Kim Soleum contemplates the extreme difficulty of surviving B-Class ghost stories, noting a 2% survival rate for normal people. To reach his goal of 500,000 points to return to his original world, he realizes he needs a strategic approach to balance safety and speed. During his first day, Supervisor Park allows him to use the desk of Section Chief Lee Jaheon. Kim Soleum discovers a post-it note under the keyboard with Lee Jaheon's credentials and password. He uses this information to log into the welfare mall as a Section Chief, gaining access to a hidden 'Alien Shop' phishing link. He accesses the link by clicking the back button five times in the welfare mall. To avoid leaving a trace on the company PC, he photographs the link with his phone. Later, at home, he uses image analysis to reconstruct the link and enters the Alien Shop. He finds various supernatural items with high price tags, including 'Bloodsucking Cutlery', 'Wide-Range Walkie-Talkie', 'Alice Picnic Set', and 'Silver Serpent'. With his 20 million won, he decides to purchase the 'Alice Picnic Set' and the discounted 'Silver Serpent'.
8:18
Chapter 19
Kim Soleum contemplates the extreme difficulty of surviving B-Class ghost stories, noting a 2% survival rate for normal people. To reach his goal of 500,000 points to return to his original world, he realizes he needs a strategic approach to balance safety and speed. During his first day, Supervisor Park allows him to use the desk of Section Chief Lee Jaheon. Kim Soleum discovers a post-it note under the keyboard with Lee Jaheon's credentials and password. He uses this information to log into the welfare mall as a Section Chief, gaining access to a hidden 'Alien Shop' phishing link. He accesses the link by clicking the back button five times in the welfare mall. To avoid leaving a trace on the company PC, he photographs the link with his phone. Later, at home, he uses image analysis to reconstruct the link and enters the Alien Shop. He finds various supernatural items with high price tags, including 'Bloodsucking Cutlery', 'Wide-Range Walkie-Talkie', 'Alice Picnic Set', and 'Silver Serpent'. With his 20 million won, he decides to purchase the 'Alice Picnic Set' and the discounted 'Silver Serpent'.
8:18
20
Chapter 20
Kim Soleum completes his transaction in the Alien Shop, purchasing the 'Alice Picnic Set' (₩11,999,999) and the 'Silver Serpent' (₩4,999,999). He rejects the 'Bloodsucking Cutlery' as too dangerous for a coward and the 'Wide-Range Walkie-Talkie' as too conspicuous. He views the 'Silver Serpent' as a high-value investment, as it is a discounted item originally worth 20 million won. He transfers ₩16,999,998 via bank transfer to 'Alien'. Immediately after, a 'rocket delivery' occurs where a postal box appears out of thin air. Inside, he finds the 'Alice Picnic Set'—a rusty tin containing a 'Drink me' soda and an 'Eat me' cookie—and the 'Silver Serpent', a silver coin engraved with a snake biting its tail. He feels prepared to clear higher-class 'Darkness'. The next day, despite minimal sleep, Kim Soleum is informed by Assistant Manager Eun and Supervisor Park that he will be entering a D-Class ghost story called 'Tuesday Quiz Show'. They claim the company already has the answers, making it safe, but Kim Soleum notes he has never heard of this specific story.
7:04
Chapter 20
Kim Soleum completes his transaction in the Alien Shop, purchasing the 'Alice Picnic Set' (₩11,999,999) and the 'Silver Serpent' (₩4,999,999). He rejects the 'Bloodsucking Cutlery' as too dangerous for a coward and the 'Wide-Range Walkie-Talkie' as too conspicuous. He views the 'Silver Serpent' as a high-value investment, as it is a discounted item originally worth 20 million won. He transfers ₩16,999,998 via bank transfer to 'Alien'. Immediately after, a 'rocket delivery' occurs where a postal box appears out of thin air. Inside, he finds the 'Alice Picnic Set'—a rusty tin containing a 'Drink me' soda and an 'Eat me' cookie—and the 'Silver Serpent', a silver coin engraved with a snake biting its tail. He feels prepared to clear higher-class 'Darkness'. The next day, despite minimal sleep, Kim Soleum is informed by Assistant Manager Eun and Supervisor Park that he will be entering a D-Class ghost story called 'Tuesday Quiz Show'. They claim the company already has the answers, making it safe, but Kim Soleum notes he has never heard of this specific story.
7:04
21
Chapter 21
Assistant Manager Eun provides Kim Soleum with a PDF of the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' answers. Kim Soleum claims to have memorized them to avoid extra baggage. However, Eun receives news that the squad leader is unavailable, and due to end-of-month performance quotas, Kim Soleum is forced to enter the ghost story as a duo rather than a trio. Kim Soleum accepts the situation, feeling his courage is at its peak. He is presented with a postcard that serves as the medium for entry. Upon signing the postcard, his consciousness is pulled into the story. He arrives on a brightly lit stage in a setting resembling an old-fashioned American talk show. He is greeted by a host with a television for a head, who is hyping up the audience. Kim Soleum stands at a podium, feeling a strange sense of calm compared to previous horrors. However, he discovers a disclaimer and a record indicating that the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' (code Qterw-A-104) is actually a much more dangerous 'Chorus of the Sacrificial Lambs' story with a zero-percent survivor rate.
7:09
Chapter 21
Assistant Manager Eun provides Kim Soleum with a PDF of the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' answers. Kim Soleum claims to have memorized them to avoid extra baggage. However, Eun receives news that the squad leader is unavailable, and due to end-of-month performance quotas, Kim Soleum is forced to enter the ghost story as a duo rather than a trio. Kim Soleum accepts the situation, feeling his courage is at its peak. He is presented with a postcard that serves as the medium for entry. Upon signing the postcard, his consciousness is pulled into the story. He arrives on a brightly lit stage in a setting resembling an old-fashioned American talk show. He is greeted by a host with a television for a head, who is hyping up the audience. Kim Soleum stands at a podium, feeling a strange sense of calm compared to previous horrors. However, he discovers a disclaimer and a record indicating that the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' (code Qterw-A-104) is actually a much more dangerous 'Chorus of the Sacrificial Lambs' story with a zero-percent survivor rate.
7:09
22
Chapter 22
The 'Tuesday Quiz Show' is a Dusk-class Darkness manifesting as a 1970s American-style talk show. For 99 consecutive sessions, contestants have successfully answered all questions without error. Kim Soleum, alongside Supervisor Park Minseong and Assistant Manager Eun Haje, participates in the 99th session. Kim Soleum uses a stolen list of answers to navigate the quiz, even pretending to hesitate to maintain the show's atmosphere. During the final question regarding blood loss percentages, Kim Soleum provides a complex, logical answer that exceeds the prepared script, earning him the 'MVP' title and a small gift box. As the broadcast ends, the situation takes a turn when four new contestants—members of a different squad—suddenly appear on the podiums, suggesting a broadcast overlap.
7:34
Chapter 22
The 'Tuesday Quiz Show' is a Dusk-class Darkness manifesting as a 1970s American-style talk show. For 99 consecutive sessions, contestants have successfully answered all questions without error. Kim Soleum, alongside Supervisor Park Minseong and Assistant Manager Eun Haje, participates in the 99th session. Kim Soleum uses a stolen list of answers to navigate the quiz, even pretending to hesitate to maintain the show's atmosphere. During the final question regarding blood loss percentages, Kim Soleum provides a complex, logical answer that exceeds the prepared script, earning him the 'MVP' title and a small gift box. As the broadcast ends, the situation takes a turn when four new contestants—members of a different squad—suddenly appear on the podiums, suggesting a broadcast overlap.
7:34
23
Chapter 23
The appearance of the new contestants causes a 'broadcast accident.' An employee in a zebra mask is instantly incinerated by the show's mechanics, leaving only ashes. Kim Soleum desperately pretends to be excited to avoid being targeted. Once the cameras are off, the host reveals that the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' has been canceled because the winning streak made it unappealing to viewers. However, the horror does not end; the host announces a new, pre-recorded segment called the 'Tuesday Choir.' Despite Assistant Manager Eun Haje's attempt to request a return to their original status, the host implies that refusal will result in incineration. The chapter ends with the host introducing the new segment's guest: The Butcher, a conductor with a massive pig's head.
7:07
Chapter 23
The appearance of the new contestants causes a 'broadcast accident.' An employee in a zebra mask is instantly incinerated by the show's mechanics, leaving only ashes. Kim Soleum desperately pretends to be excited to avoid being targeted. Once the cameras are off, the host reveals that the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' has been canceled because the winning streak made it unappealing to viewers. However, the horror does not end; the host announces a new, pre-recorded segment called the 'Tuesday Choir.' Despite Assistant Manager Eun Haje's attempt to request a return to their original status, the host implies that refusal will result in incineration. The chapter ends with the host introducing the new segment's guest: The Butcher, a conductor with a massive pig's head.
7:07
24
Chapter 24
The 'Tuesday Choir' segment begins with the conductor, The Butcher, summoning thirteen silver trays decorated with screaming faces. The rules are lethal: contestants must answer questions, and if they succeed, their heads are severed and placed on the trays, where they become musical instruments by screaming their last words. The 'Chorus of the Sacrificial Lambs' causes headaches and anxiety for those affected. Within five minutes, several employees, including a mole-masked employee and a jellyfish-masked employee, are killed or disqualified. Kim Soleum realizes that his superiors, Park Minseong and Eun Haje, are also in extreme danger. As Supervisor Park is called to the podium, Kim Soleum struggles against overwhelming terror, desperately searching his inventory for any item that might allow him to escape the catastrophe.
5:57
Chapter 24
The 'Tuesday Choir' segment begins with the conductor, The Butcher, summoning thirteen silver trays decorated with screaming faces. The rules are lethal: contestants must answer questions, and if they succeed, their heads are severed and placed on the trays, where they become musical instruments by screaming their last words. The 'Chorus of the Sacrificial Lambs' causes headaches and anxiety for those affected. Within five minutes, several employees, including a mole-masked employee and a jellyfish-masked employee, are killed or disqualified. Kim Soleum realizes that his superiors, Park Minseong and Eun Haje, are also in extreme danger. As Supervisor Park is called to the podium, Kim Soleum struggles against overwhelming terror, desperately searching his inventory for any item that might allow him to escape the catastrophe.
5:57
25
Chapter 25
During the Tuesday Talk Show filming, Kim Soleum takes a massive gamble to delay his death. He uses a 'Smiley Sticker' soaked in an 'Alice Picnic Set' canned drink to induce friendliness in the TV-headed host. By claiming dizziness, he successfully triggers a short break in filming. During this intermission, Assistant Manager Eun Haje slips Kim a specialized button, which he discovers is a communication device linked to Section Chief Lee Jaheon of D-squad. Kim uses the device to report that D-squad will face mass death in 30 minutes. Lee Jaheon, displaying a pragmatic and somewhat detached attitude, explains that if Kim can hold out for 55 minutes, he can coordinate a rescue involving heavy equipment and security team authorization. Kim returns to the set, using flattery and psychological manipulation to convince the host that the current 'revamped' show format is a cost-cutting measure that disrespects the host's importance. This successfully shifts the host's focus from the broadcast flow to his own ego, creating a window of opportunity.
5:18
Chapter 25
During the Tuesday Talk Show filming, Kim Soleum takes a massive gamble to delay his death. He uses a 'Smiley Sticker' soaked in an 'Alice Picnic Set' canned drink to induce friendliness in the TV-headed host. By claiming dizziness, he successfully triggers a short break in filming. During this intermission, Assistant Manager Eun Haje slips Kim a specialized button, which he discovers is a communication device linked to Section Chief Lee Jaheon of D-squad. Kim uses the device to report that D-squad will face mass death in 30 minutes. Lee Jaheon, displaying a pragmatic and somewhat detached attitude, explains that if Kim can hold out for 55 minutes, he can coordinate a rescue involving heavy equipment and security team authorization. Kim returns to the set, using flattery and psychological manipulation to convince the host that the current 'revamped' show format is a cost-cutting measure that disrespects the host's importance. This successfully shifts the host's focus from the broadcast flow to his own ego, creating a window of opportunity.
5:18
26
Chapter 26
Kim Soleum communicates with Lee Jaheon via the button. Kim reports the anomaly and the imminent death of D-squad. Lee Jaheon, appearing highly experienced and somewhat desensitized to death, offers a tactical solution: if Kim can delay the situation for 55 minutes, Jaheon can secure high-grade weapons and entry devices from the security team to perform a rescue. Kim realizes Jaheon is likely a high-ranking, powerful employee of the Field Exploration Team. Kim returns to the set and uses extreme flattery to manipulate the host. He suggests that the current show's lack of live audience and changes in format are due to cost-cutting and a lack of respect for the host's talent. This manipulation works; the host becomes preoccupied with the idea that the show's quality has diminished, allowing Kim to prepare his next move.
7:17
Chapter 26
Kim Soleum communicates with Lee Jaheon via the button. Kim reports the anomaly and the imminent death of D-squad. Lee Jaheon, appearing highly experienced and somewhat desensitized to death, offers a tactical solution: if Kim can delay the situation for 55 minutes, Jaheon can secure high-grade weapons and entry devices from the security team to perform a rescue. Kim realizes Jaheon is likely a high-ranking, powerful employee of the Field Exploration Team. Kim returns to the set and uses extreme flattery to manipulate the host. He suggests that the current show's lack of live audience and changes in format are due to cost-cutting and a lack of respect for the host's talent. This manipulation works; the host becomes preoccupied with the idea that the show's quality has diminished, allowing Kim to prepare his next move.
7:17
27
Chapter 27
As filming resumes, Kim Soleum executes a high-stakes plan. He coordinates with Lee Jaheon, who uses an emergency supply drop mechanism to launch a small AAA battery through the entry postcard. The battery strikes one of the silver trays used by the pig-headed conductor with immense force, damaging the 'instrument.' This disruption causes the conductor to scream in rage. Kim's plan backfires in an unexpected way: the host, perceiving the chaos as a lack of respect for the show's essence, decides to 'purify' the production. The host incinerates the entire A-Class Darkness—including the conductor, the band, and the set—turning them to ash. The host declares a new vision for the show and invites Kim to join his new crew. The scene shifts, and Kim finds himself back in a quiet office, having successfully cleared an A-Class Darkness. Supervisor Park Minseong and Eun Haje, though physically battered, celebrate Kim's unprecedented feat, noting the high-quality 'Dream Essence Collector' he obtained.
6:46
Chapter 27
As filming resumes, Kim Soleum executes a high-stakes plan. He coordinates with Lee Jaheon, who uses an emergency supply drop mechanism to launch a small AAA battery through the entry postcard. The battery strikes one of the silver trays used by the pig-headed conductor with immense force, damaging the 'instrument.' This disruption causes the conductor to scream in rage. Kim's plan backfires in an unexpected way: the host, perceiving the chaos as a lack of respect for the show's essence, decides to 'purify' the production. The host incinerates the entire A-Class Darkness—including the conductor, the band, and the set—turning them to ash. The host declares a new vision for the show and invites Kim to join his new crew. The scene shifts, and Kim finds himself back in a quiet office, having successfully cleared an A-Class Darkness. Supervisor Park Minseong and Eun Haje, though physically battered, celebrate Kim's unprecedented feat, noting the high-quality 'Dream Essence Collector' he obtained.
6:46
28
Chapter 28
Go Yeongeun, a new employee in her third day, reflects on her progress after clearing two F-Class ghost stories. She notes the difficulty of reaching the 500,000-point goal and observes the existence of a new hires' group chat that has yet to invite the top recruit, Kim Soleum. As she attempts to contact him, the chat explodes with news of Kim Soleum's contribution to clearing an A-Class ghost story. Meanwhile, in the infirmary, Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) recovers from the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' incident using specialized recovery medicine. He interacts with his squad members—Assistant Manager Eun Haje, Supervisor Park Minseong, and others—discussing the unprecedented nature of the event. The atmosphere shifts when Section Chief Lee Jaheon, known as 'Lizard,' arrives. Kim Soleum is shocked to see that Lee Jaheon literally possesses a white lizard head, though his teammates act as if he is a normal human. The chapter ends with the intimidating gaze of the lizard-headed Section Chief toward Kim Soleum.
6:55
Chapter 28
Go Yeongeun, a new employee in her third day, reflects on her progress after clearing two F-Class ghost stories. She notes the difficulty of reaching the 500,000-point goal and observes the existence of a new hires' group chat that has yet to invite the top recruit, Kim Soleum. As she attempts to contact him, the chat explodes with news of Kim Soleum's contribution to clearing an A-Class ghost story. Meanwhile, in the infirmary, Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) recovers from the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' incident using specialized recovery medicine. He interacts with his squad members—Assistant Manager Eun Haje, Supervisor Park Minseong, and others—discussing the unprecedented nature of the event. The atmosphere shifts when Section Chief Lee Jaheon, known as 'Lizard,' arrives. Kim Soleum is shocked to see that Lee Jaheon literally possesses a white lizard head, though his teammates act as if he is a normal human. The chapter ends with the intimidating gaze of the lizard-headed Section Chief toward Kim Soleum.
6:55
29
Chapter 29
Section Chief Lee Jaheon briefs the squad on the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' incident. He explains that the escalation to A-Class was caused by a human error where both D-squad and L-squad were assigned the same task. Despite the L-squad being wiped out, the company refuses to officially reclassify the event as A-Class, citing a lack of cross-verification. However, to settle the matter, the company offers compensation: 30,000 points per person and a special 10,000-point incentive for Kim Soleum as the top contributor, bringing his total to 40,100 points. Kim Soleum decides to keep a low profile to avoid dangerous high-level assignments. Later, the team enjoys a beef dinner, where Kim Soleum observes the lizard-headed Lee Jaheon eating normally. During the meal, Lee Jaheon asks if Kim Soleum intends to save his points for a Wish Ticket, then reveals the existence of 'Personalized Equipment'—supernatural gear that can be crafted using company-owned ghost stories.
8:04
Chapter 29
Section Chief Lee Jaheon briefs the squad on the 'Tuesday Quiz Show' incident. He explains that the escalation to A-Class was caused by a human error where both D-squad and L-squad were assigned the same task. Despite the L-squad being wiped out, the company refuses to officially reclassify the event as A-Class, citing a lack of cross-verification. However, to settle the matter, the company offers compensation: 30,000 points per person and a special 10,000-point incentive for Kim Soleum as the top contributor, bringing his total to 40,100 points. Kim Soleum decides to keep a low profile to avoid dangerous high-level assignments. Later, the team enjoys a beef dinner, where Kim Soleum observes the lizard-headed Lee Jaheon eating normally. During the meal, Lee Jaheon asks if Kim Soleum intends to save his points for a Wish Ticket, then reveals the existence of 'Personalized Equipment'—supernatural gear that can be crafted using company-owned ghost stories.
8:04
30
Chapter 30
Kim Soleum learns the mechanics of 'Customized Personal Equipment,' which is created by combining specific ghost stories. He accompanies Section Chief Lee Jaheon to the company's annex, which houses 'Twilight-Class' ghost stories—specialized, relatively safe E-Class entities. Upon entering the annex, they encounter a masked receptionist. They proceed to the location of ghost story Qterw-E-99, the 'Kind Seed Kit,' located in a moonlit greenhouse. This machine allows employees to crossbreed objects to create new items using moonlight. Kim Soleum discovers that using this machine requires a fee of 1,000 points per use. He notes the irony that the company charges employees to use equipment necessary for their survival, though Assistant Manager Eun mentions that supervisors receive two free uses per year.
5:05
Chapter 30
Kim Soleum learns the mechanics of 'Customized Personal Equipment,' which is created by combining specific ghost stories. He accompanies Section Chief Lee Jaheon to the company's annex, which houses 'Twilight-Class' ghost stories—specialized, relatively safe E-Class entities. Upon entering the annex, they encounter a masked receptionist. They proceed to the location of ghost story Qterw-E-99, the 'Kind Seed Kit,' located in a moonlit greenhouse. This machine allows employees to crossbreed objects to create new items using moonlight. Kim Soleum discovers that using this machine requires a fee of 1,000 points per use. He notes the irony that the company charges employees to use equipment necessary for their survival, though Assistant Manager Eun mentions that supervisors receive two free uses per year.
5:05
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