Basic Info.

​"The story revolves around the Deserter Pursuit (D.P.) unit of the Korean military, a team tasked with capturing soldiers who have deserted. Adapted from a true story based on the author's own experiences as a soldier, it sheds light on the harsh realities and challenges faced by the D.P. team. Beyond the action of apprehending deserters, the narrative delves into the absurdities within the military system and the societal issues that lead soldiers to desert. By highlighting these underlying problems, the story offers a poignant critique of the military's structure and its impact on individuals, making it both thought-provoking and emotionally impactful."​

Additional Info.

​"*D.P.* draws its title from the term ""Dog Day,"" referencing the Chinese character ""改衣"" (to change clothes), symbolizing the day deserters are caught and change from military uniform to civilian attire. This significant moment reflects the core premise of the story: the pursuit of military deserters and their reintegration into civilian life. The work incorporates elements of detective and investigative genres while delving into the harsh practices and absurdities within the military. Set in the closed and oppressive environment of the barracks, it captures the heavy and stifling atmosphere of military life. However, the depiction is said to be somewhat sanitized compared to the harsher realities of real-life military experiences. By using various locations during the pursuit of deserters, the story introduces a road movie-like vibe that contrasts with its military backdrop. This stylistic choice highlights the darker tone of the narrative, sheds light on broader societal issues, and has contributed to its widespread popularity. Reactions to the drama have been mixed, largely influenced by personal experiences. Some viewers feel the injustices portrayed in the story are exaggerated, while others sympathize deeply, noting that they have experienced similar absurdities during their military service. This divergence of opinions has sparked discussions about how faithfully the drama reflects the systemic issues and absurdities within the military, further amplifying its cultural impact."​