The Whirlwind is a gripping political drama that delves deep into the ruthless power struggles and corruption within the political world. Starring the acclaimed actor Sol Kyung Gyu, the drama captivated audiences with its intense storyline and complex characters. All 12 episodes were released simultaneously on June 28, 2024, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats, especially with the dramatic ending.
In this article, we will unravel the intricate details of the finale and explore whether Park Dong Ho, one of the central characters, truly meets his demise.
Warning: Heavy spoilers ahead!
The Fall of the Dae Jin Group
Image Source: The Whirlwind Drama Trailer (Doc. Netflix)
The Dae Jin Group, a powerful conglomerate supporting corruption within the political ranks, finally crumbles by the end of The Whirlwind. The group was deeply entangled in the corrupt practices of several board members, including the company of Jung Su Jin’s husband.
Kang Sang Un, the antagonist who faced multiple rejections from his family, takes a bold step by exposing his father’s secret safe house. Meanwhile, Park Dong Ho’s meticulous plan bears fruit. He manipulates the media, causing panic among some judges, and ultimately leading to the arrest of Dae Jin Group’s director, Kang Yeong Ik, caught red-handed while attempting to bribe his way out of trouble.
Seo Jeong Yeon’s Crucial Role
Image Source: Trailer For The Drama The Whirlwind (Doc. Netflix)
Seo Jeong Yeon’s character plays a pivotal role throughout the series, especially in the final episodes. Her brother, Seo Gi Tae, was wrongfully accused of a crime and driven to suicide. This personal tragedy fuels her determination to aid Park Dong Ho in his quest for justice.
Jeong Yeon initially records Jung Su Jin’s confession about murdering President Jang Il Jun using a ring from her former engagement, which she returns to Lee Man Gil. Although the recording is eventually destroyed by Dong Ho due to dire circumstances, Jeong Yeon perseveres. She later manages to record and broadcast Su Jin’s confession to the public, significantly contributing to the downfall of Su Jin and her corrupt allies.
The Tragic Fate of Park Dong Ho
Image Source: The Whirlwind Drama Trailer (Doc. Netflix)
Despite his successful efforts in exposing the corruption, Park Dong Ho’s journey ends in tragedy. In a dramatic turn of events, Dong Ho jumps from a mountain, effectively making Jung Su Jin a suspect. This act is not a mere deception like his previous attempts with poison; it is a genuine sacrifice.
Secretary Choi Yeon Soo reveals Dong Ho’s death to the media, stating it was a suicide, in accordance with Dong Ho’s last wishes. The “storm” that Dong Ho referred to symbolizes the upheaval within the corrupt government, ultimately leading to the collapse of its glory days.
Lee Jang Seok’s Final Lie
Image Source: Trailer For The Drama The Whirlwind (Doc. Netflix)
Lee Jang Seok’s character arc concludes with a significant yet reluctant lie. Throughout the series, he struggles with the morality of lying to support Dong Ho’s plans. Eventually, Jang Seok lies about Jung Su Jin’s confession during an interrogation, claiming that Man Gil killed President Jang Il Jun. This fabricated story leads Su Jin to confess on live broadcast, revealing her own guilt.
The Downfall of Jung Su Jin and Her Cohorts
Image Source: Trailer For The Drama The Whirlwind (Doc. Netflix)
Jung Su Jin’s confession about her involvement in President Jang Il Jun’s murder and the subsequent corruption scandal marks the end of her reign. Su Jin is sentenced to death, a punishment she once threatened Dong Ho with. Ironically, she finds herself in the same cell where she was held as a young girl, awaiting her execution.
In the end, Park Dong Ho’s relentless pursuit of justice unveils the corruption, albeit at the cost of his own life. The storm he predicted sweeps through the corrupt government, dismantling it piece by piece.
With such a dramatic ending, The Whirlwind leaves viewers with mixed feelings. Are you satisfied with this conclusion, or did you hope for a different outcome? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
