The most astonishing point of “The AX” the original novel for the movie 어쩔수가없다, is how the main character’s personal reasons and methods for solving his problems resonate so deeply with readers. The story seems to critique the degradation of human labor rights, the loss of dignity in work, and the larger social issues within capitalism.
Yet at its core, the protagonist’s focus is not on society but on himself — on how to overcome his own personal problems.
Even though we know that his decision to murder his competitors can never be justified, we can’t help but understand the emotions behind it. His obsession with removing his rivals feels strangely familiar.
We may not literally eliminate others in our workplaces, but we still compete — constantly comparing ourselves to colleagues and struggling to stay ahead. In that sense, the modern workplace feels like a version of natural selection — and perhaps that is why the protagonist’s choices, while horrifying, do not completely shock us.
Living in a highly industrialized, job-oriented society, we sometimes experience the erosion of our own dignity.
At work, I try not to accept being treated disrespectfully and instead choose to formally raise issues with those who behave rudely or indecorously. Taking such action requires considerable courage, especially as an employee who could easily be dismissed depending on any evaluation process. Yet I believe that maintaining self-respect in these moments is one of the few ways to preserve our sense of humanity in the modern workplace.
In the end, what resonates with me most is the idea of personal will.
The main character’s story reminds me that while the environment may limit our options, it never completely defines who we are. Our choices — even in small, quiet moments — shape our path forward.
Despite all the pressures of survival, competition, and fear, I still believe that personal will matters the most. It is what allows us to remain human, even in a world that often forgets what that means.
While trying to hold on to this ideal, I find that the protagonist’s situation and decisions mirror the dilemmas we face in our own lives, and the attitudes we adopt as we navigate the hardships and moral conflicts that arise in our work.
#어쩔수가없다 #TheAx #Workplace #PersonalWill #Reflection