Overview
Mainly the story of Shinsuke and his stepmother, ranging from Shinsuke's infanthood to his mid-teens. Coal workers and the mines dominate nearly every aspect of the life of the characters. Shinsuke's father dies while bravely using dynamite to rescue a group of trapped Korean miners. Several older men attempt to help he and his mother cope, including a kind Korean and a Harley-riding yakuza.
| Actor | Age then | Age now | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 29 | 80 | |
 | 23 | 74 | |
 | 20 | 70 | |
 | 45 | December 10, 2012 (83) | |
 | 36 | September 19, 2003 (64) | |
 | 63 | March 23, 1991 (79) | |
 | 39 | 89 | |
 | 17 | 68 | |
 | - | - | |
| - | - |