Jae-Hyun took a deep breath as he followed Jae-Suk's father into the living room. He gestured for him to sit across from him.
"I hear you're skilled in business management, project organization, cyber security, and administrative assistance," Jae-Hyun began, keeping his voice steady.
Jae-Suk's father raised an eyebrow. "Yes. That's accurate. But I don't see how you could possibly… make use of that information." His tone was skeptical, laced with amusement.
Jae-Hyun leaned forward slightly. "That's exactly why I need your help. I have a plan—a way for both of us to benefit—but I need your expertise."
Mr. Oh folded his arms, eyes narrowing. "I'm listening, but forgive me if I'm doubtful… this is very unusual. Why should I trust a kid with something this serious?"
"I understand," Jae-Hyun replied, keeping his expression calm. "But hear me out. The plan is simple, but it requires precision." He paused, letting the tension build.
"I'm going to hack into a national company. A reputable one that relies heavily on their online systems for business. I'll infiltrate their systems, identify the flaws and vulnerabilities, and then offer to fix them—for a substantial sum. That's where you come in."
Mr. Oh's eyes widened. "You're going to hack a national company? Are you serious?"
"Yes," Jae-Hyun said firmly. "I've done it before. At fourteen, intelligence agencies, military networks, nuclear facilities, even major tech companies international networks. All without a trace."
Mr. Oh leaned back, momentarily speechless. "You've done this before… at fourteen?"
Jae-Hyun nodded. "Exactly. But this isn't about breaking in for fun. I'll create a software that analyzes systems, detects the flaws and generates detailed reports. We'll approach the company professionally, discreetly. I'll draft a detailed report showing the flaws, and you, as an experienced administrator, will handle the negotiations and make it official. You'll present it as your company's expertise."
"So, you want me to front this? Go to a major company, make the deal, and negotiate a price for fixing their flaws?" His skepticism was still evident, but curiosity sparked in his gaze.
"Yes. And first, we'll need to create a company. You'll be the CEO. A tech subsidiary will operate under that company, handling the cyber assessment. I'll manage the technical work anonymously, but you'll be the face of the operation. You'll also handle all the paperwork necessary for th creation of the company."
Jae-Suk's father rubbed his chin, thinking it over. "It's… unconventional. Extremely risky. But… you're saying you can identify the weaknesses, draft the report, and avoid detection?"
"I can," Jae-Hyun said, confidence unwavering. "And you have nothing to lose. Worst case scenario, you just decline after seeing my plan. But if we succeed, both of us benefit immensely."
The man sighed, half In disbelief, half in intrigue. "You make it sound almost too simple."
"Complex for some, simple for those who know what to do," Jae-Hyun replied with a faint smile. "You just need to manage the business side: create the company, act as CEO, approach the clients, and negotiate the terms. I'll be the boss in the shadows and handle the rest."
Mr. Oh studied him for a long moment, then let out a slow breath. "Well… you're confident. I suppose I have nothing to lose by hearing you out. Let's set a proper meeting for this weekend. You come prepared, and we'll discuss it thoroughly."
"Thank you," Jae-Hyun said, rising to leave. "You won't regret it. I'll prepare everything and send the meeting details."
The rest of the week passed as usual. School carried on with the familiar rhythm, but Jae-Hyun's days were brighter. Lunches with Jae-Suk and Tae-ho became routine. They studied together, laughed at street stalls over delicious street food, and spent free periods in the library, often with Jae-Hyun patiently guiding them through tricky equations or chemistry problems. Their bond deepened with each shared joke, each small victory, and each friendly tease.
By the weekend, Jae-Hyun had prepared a detailed and precise report. Every vulnerability, every proposed solution, every potential negotiation strategy was mapped out with clarity and foresight. When he arrived for the meeting, Mr. Oh welcomed him into his study, curiosity and intrigue evident in his gaze.
"Sit," Jae-Suk's father said, gesturing to the leather chair opposite him. His eyes were sharp, waiting, analyzing. "Show me what you've been planning."
Jae-Hyun placed a thick binder on the table. "I've prepared a detailed report," he began. "It outlines the target company's system architecture, vulnerabilities, and the proposed fixes. I've also included the financial forecast for our consulting services—how much we could reasonably charge and why."
He flipped open the binder, revealing diagrams of networks, flowcharts of data access points, and technical notes written.
Mr. Oh leaned forward, scanning the pages. "You've really done all of this?"
"Yes," Jae-Hyun said. "I've simulated the penetration tests on their systems in a controlled environment. I know exactly where the flaws are. I also suggest a phased approach to avoid triggering their security protocols."
Mr. Oh rubbed his temple, impressed despite himself. "You realize this is… audacious. Most adults would be terrified to attempt something like this."
Jae-Hyun shrugged lightly. "I'm not most adults. And that's why I need you. You handle the legal, business, and client-facing sides. I'll remain behind the scenes."
Jae-Suk's father raised an eyebrow. "And the company?"
"Yes," Jae-Hyun continued, "you'll need to create a company with a subsidiary specializing in technology and cyber security services. You'll be CEO. I'll manage technical operations under the company's banner. This way, the client sees legitimacy, and we stay safe."
"We will call the company Hanil group," he continued. And for the tech subsidiary, we'll call it NovaSec corporation.
He paused, letting the weight of the plan sink in. "I've also outlined initial contracts, non-disclosure clauses, and suggested pricing. This isn't reckless. It's controlled risk with high returns."
Mr. Oh leaned back, staring at Jae-Hyun with a mix of admiration and disbelief.
"You don't have to trust me blindly. Everything is documented. Everything is planned. You just have to take it to the company and negotiate the terms." Jae-Hyun added.
A long silence followed. Finally, Mr. Oh exhaled slowly. "You've thought of everything. I can't deny… this is impressive."
Jae-Hyun allowed himself a small smile. "I know it sounds crazy, but you really have nothing to lose. Worst case, you decline. Best case… well, you know the potential."
"And I've decided on the company to infiltrate." He stated. "Inno Trade Corp. They specialize in online B2B marketplace facilitating trade between Korean manufacturers and overseas retailers. Their entire business model is dependent on the online marketplace platform. If they were to suffer a cyber attack it would lead to loss of billions. This makes them the perfect client.
Mr. Oh studied him a moment longer, then nodded decisively. "All right. I'll trust you on this. We proceed. But I want weekly updates, and I want full transparency on every technical step you take. No surprises."
"Agreed," Jae-Hyun said. He closed the binder. "I'll also prepare the subsidiary's registration and draft the initial client pitch. Everything will be ready for our first approach."
A faint smile crossed Mr. Oh's lips. "You may be reckless, but I see the method in it. Let's see how far this goes."
"If this works out… you won't be my partner, Mr. Oh. You'll be working for me." Jae-Hyun said. His tone filled with boldness and a confident gaze.
Mr. Oh looked at him surprised, clearly not expecting that. With a small smile he said, "Well I guess there's more benefit for me if I work for you… Mr. Jung."
"Mr. Jung." Jae-Hyun repeated. "It has a nice ring to it, but I prefer you call me Jae-Hyun. That aside, I will set an appointment for you to meet with Inno Trade Corp next week Monday."
"Of course." Mr. Oh replied
With that the meeting came to an end.
As he stepped out into the cool night, the city lights shimmered like data points in his mind — each one a step toward the empire he would build. The plan was set, the team—albeit an unusual one—was ready.