Artifact Reading Inspector

In the bustling world of Korean antiques, where Insadong is the epicenter, Korea Auction stands as a prominent marketplace. Haejin, a young man unfamiliar with the intricacies of auction houses, finds himself navigating this unfamiliar territory. His father, a seasoned dealer, had always handled their dealings discreetly, making Haejin's presence at an auction house a novel experience.

Upon arrival, Haejin is greeted by a professional woman who offers her assistance. He reveals his intention to consign a valuable item: a Blue Flower White Porcelain water container. This leads him to an appraisal by Hong Mijin, a seasoned porcelain appraiser. Her assessment confirms the artifact's high quality, leading to its placement in the upcoming major auction.

Mijin is surprised by Haejin's calm demeanor and lack of inquiries about the bidding price or potential sale value. Haejin believes that true value is determined by a knowledgeable buyer, not necessarily an auction's bidding war. He also confidently addresses Mijin's unspoken concern about the artifact's origin, implying that his ignorance of its source shields him from any implications of dealing with stolen goods. This unusual transaction sets the stage for further dealings with Korea Auction, hinting at Haejin's potential to bring more valuable artifacts to light.