Hanzawa Naoki Episode 1 ›

Episode 1 introduces the series' signature catchphrase: . This philosophy—that if you are wronged, you must return the "favour" twofold—resonated deeply with Japanese office workers who felt oppressed by rigid corporate hierarchies and "horrible bosses". Key Characters & Cast

Faced with an internal inquiry at the bank's Tokyo headquarters, Hanzawa refuses to take the fall. He famously declares that he will recover the full 500 million yen himself. The Iconic "Baigaeshi" Moment Hanzawa Naoki Episode 1

Below is a breakdown of the episode that redefined the "salaryman" drama. Episode 1 introduces the series' signature catchphrase:

Asano immediately shifts the entire blame onto Hanzawa, attempting to sacrifice his subordinate’s career to protect his own. He famously declares that he will recover the

The episode sets the stage with Hanzawa being pressured by his ambitious branch manager, Tadasu Asano (Kanji Ishimaru), to approve a massive (~$5 million USD) unsecured loan to Nishi Osaka Steel. Despite Hanzawa’s internal reservations and a lack of proper due diligence, Asano forces the deal through to meet branch targets. The catastrophe strikes quickly: