Described as a "dogshit" gambler, Hongjin fell into debt with a local crime boss and fled from his home, joining the Republic of Korea Armed Forces so that his creditors could not catch up to him. After enlisting, Hongjin found value in having purpose serving the military, which broke his bad habits and turned him into an entirely new person that was strong and selfless. He eventually climbed through the ranks and joined the 13th Special Mission Brigade, earning the name "Horangi".