JTBC drama “Awl” aired its first episode Saturday, introducing real life issues in the labor market almost as if to accuse society by portraying the relationship between employer and employee at a large supermarket chain.

In the opening episodes, store chief Lee Soo-in (Ji Hyun-woo) is asked to reduce staff numbers using every possible means available. However, Lee rejects the order, sparking a conflict.

(JTBC)

Other seemingly “unfair” treatment of laborers was depicted in the drama. Goo Go-Shin (Ahn Nae-sang), who often stands up against injustice, helps a young man who was not able to receive his paycheck from a restaurant he works at because he broke the store’s motorbike. Go-Shin referred to the Labor Standards Act, saying that the owner of the restaurant would have to pay 7 million won for the violation of the law.

Based on a popular webtoon, “Song Got,” “Awl” delves into the long-standing problem of labor-management relations.

The synopsis of the drama identifies the key point of the drama as a reflection on each side of the people involved -- employers, middle managers and workers -- during labor-management conflicts.

In upcoming episodes, the drama will look at Korean society from a more cynical viewpoint, including a confrontation between an employer and employees.

“Awl” airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:40 p.m. on JTBC.

By Lee Hye-won (hyewonlee@heraldcorp.com)