D.P. — Characters & Cast

Guilt over failing his first deserter and an unyielding desire to protect victims of abuse.

Begins as a silent, detached private who joined the military to escape domestic abuse at home. Over two seasons, his initial passivity transforms into an unwavering commitment to justice. He evolves from a soldier following orders into a whistleblowing rebel who risks imprisonment to leak official secrets.

Protecting Jun-ho and ensuring deserters are brought back alive rather than harmed.

Introduced as a lighthearted, street-smart corporal who uses humor and wit to navigate military life. After witnessing tragic violence at the end of Season 1, he develops severe PTSD and loses his voice. In Season 2, he overcomes his trauma to stand by Jun-ho, eventually sacrificing his own reputation and securing an early discharge to help present evidence in court.

Safeguarding the young men under his command from being destroyed by the system.

Initially appears as a tired, pragmatic sergeant focused on keeping his head down and avoiding administrative trouble. As institutional cruelty escalates, his paternal instincts toward his soldiers take over. In Season 2, he actively turns against military high command, taking full legal blame for leaking classified military documents to protect Jun-ho and accept prison time.

Shifting from personal political ambition to professional self-respect and genuine accountability.

Starts as a careerist Captain interested only in promotion, political maneuvering, and staying on the good side of general officers. Traumatized by military deaths and inspired by Beom-gu and Jun-ho's courage, he undergoes a moral awakening. In Season 2, he acts as a key legal witness against the Ministry of Defense.

Demanding a genuine apology for his suffering and forcing the military to acknowledge his humanity.

An affectionate, gentle anime illustrator known as "Gandhi" among recruits. After enduring endless, horrific hazing by senior soldier Hwang Jang-soo, his psyche breaks completely. He deserts, kidnaps his abuser, and shoots himself in front of Jun-ho, serving as the tragic catalyst for the entire series' ongoing narrative.