Soldiering On
Fighting the Spheres and Facing Challenges
Duty After School Episode 7 delves into the ongoing struggle of the students as they continue their fight against the spheres. The loss of Lieutenant Lee weighs heavily on their hearts, and there is no information about the whereabouts of Soldier Kim Won-bin. Despite these uncertainties, the students have managed to come together, organizational themselves, and develop strategies to combat the spheres more effectively.
A Seemingly Cool Exterior, Yet Internal Turmoil
On the surface, the students appear to be coping well and displaying noticeable improvement in their skills. Chi-yeol continues to document their journey through video diaries, providing an avenue for everyone to express their thoughts and emotions. Bo-ra feels as if she’s living in a dream, Jang-soo takes pride in their growth, and Jun-hee regrets the decision to sign the consent form. Yoo-Jung, on the other hand, is acutely aware of the fleeting passage of time as they approach the age of twenty. Unfortunately, the spheres are evolving and adapting as well, posing an ever-increasing threat.
Returning to the Base, New Challenges Await
After a grueling day battling the spheres, the students make their way back to their base, which has now become a sense of belonging and familiarity. Hee-rak, however, is discontented with how easily the others have adapted to their surroundings. Despite his discontent, the students allow him to voice his complaints, understanding that it serves as his coping mechanism. The pressing issue they face upon their return is the malfunctioning walkie-talkie, hindering their communication.
Assessing Resources and Discussing Priorities
Upon arriving at the base, they are greeted by Yoo Ha-Na, who continuously feigns sickness to remain with the group. Exhausted and hungry, the students take stock of their resources and update each other on their respective expeditions. Young-Soo worries about the non-functional radio, and Soo-Chul informs him that it remains unfixed. Yeon-Joo expresses concerns about the shortage of medicine to treat their frostbite, prompting Yoo-Jung to plan a route to the nearest hospital in search of medical supplies.
Shared Meals, Shared Memories
As the students enjoy their meal, Ae-Seol showcases her talent for cooking, providing a much-needed break from the scarcity of food. However, not everyone is satiated, and Deok-Joong and other students struggle with hunger, emphasizing the stark reality of survival over comfort. Before dinner, a memorial for Lieutenant Lee and the other fallen comrades takes place. So-Yeon continues to grapple with the loss of Lieutenant Lee, and Kwon Il-Ha offers her comfort by giving her a can of coke.
Personal Struggles Amidst Uncertainty
Many of the students are also wrestling with their own internal battles, opting to conceal their emotions. Ae-chol, though showing signs of improvement, remains concerned about her grandmother’s well-being. She spends time with Jang-Soo, reflecting on whether their friendship would have blossomed outside the war. Bo-ra turns to art, drawing portraits of her friends as a way to cope with anxiety. Deok-Joong’s barber skills almost land him in trouble when Lee Na-Ra asks him to trim her hair, causing jealousy among Chi-Yeol and Soo-Chul, who both have a crush on her.
Search for Solutions and Uncertain Alliances
Later that night, So-Yoon and Young-Shin make efforts to fix the radio. Tae-Man suggests searching the nearby penitentiary for spare parts, a suggestion welcomed by the group. At the daily voting to decide whether to stay or travel to Seoul, frustration arises when the decision always leans towards remaining. Hee-rak and Soon-Yi, in particular, yearn to cease the mission and return home. The anonymous nature of the voting prompts them to try again the next day, striving to honor Lieutenant Lee’s memory by staying united till the end.
The Episode Review
Unanswered Questions and Emotional Tensions
One of the prevailing mysteries in this episode revolves around the absence of Soldier Kim Won-bin. What happened to him, and why are the students left to face the challenges alone? The uncertainty surrounding his fate raises questions. Additionally, the burden falls heavily on Yoo-Jung, who has taken on a leadership role to ensure everyone’s safety. It is heartbreaking when she mentions the imminent approach of their twentieth birthdays, highlighting their youth and the prolonged duration of the war. Her unspoken words at the end leave us curious about her own hopes and survival.
A Love Yet to Bloom
We hope that Chi-yeol musters the courage to confess his feelings to Na-Ra amidst the chaotic reality of war. Time is of the essence, and the circumstances propel them to seize the moment. There seems to be a mutual affection between them, and perhaps Na-Ra reciprocates Chi-yeol’s emotions.
Unknown Dangers and Anticipated Revelations
The discovery of the criminals at the penitentiary adds an element of uncertainty to the narrative. The reason behind their abandonment within the confined walls remains shrouded in mystery. Hopefully, future episodes will shed light on these enigmatic figures and their significance to the story.
Episode Rating
A Gripping Episode with Unanswered Questions
Despite some unresolved queries, Episode 7 of Duty After School is filled with gripping moments and emotional complexities. The viewer is left wanting more, eager to see how the characters navigate the challenges that lie ahead. The anticipation grows, ensuring that audiences will be hooked on the show’s progression.