Three months later, Nishi Osaka Steel goes bankrupt, revealing fraudulent accounts and massive hidden debts.
The plot kicks into gear when a massive loan discrepancy is discovered. A client company, Nishinihon Steel, has seemingly vanished, taking a 500 million yen loan with them. The loan was approved based on a document signed by Hanzawa—but he never signed it. It is a classic setup: a subordinate, Nishida, desperate to meet quotas, forged the signature under pressure from the client.
: Hanzawa’s wife, Hana , is introduced as a devoted partner who navigates the gossip-heavy and socially treacherous "bankers' wives" circles, providing Hanzawa with emotional stability amidst the chaos. Hanzawa Naoki Episode 1
Episode 1 introduces a memorable cast of characters who will become essential to the series:
In the history of Japanese television drama, few premieres have arrived with as much weight—and left as lasting an impact—as Episode 1 of Hanzawa Naoki . Aired in 2013 on TBS, this wasn't just the start of a show; it was the beginning of a cultural phenomenon that would capture a 42.2% viewership rating for its finale and turn a banker into a household name. Three months later, Nishi Osaka Steel goes bankrupt,
Hanzawa’s refusal to sacrifice his principles for career survival. Conclusion
: Hanzawa's best friend and fellow "bubble generation" hire. Working at headquarters, Tomari provides crucial intelligence and serves as Hanzawa's lifeline to the bank's upper echelons. His loyalty is absolute, and his network of contacts becomes invaluable. The loan was approved based on a document
Episode 1 does not waste time introducing the series' most electrifying character: Eiichi Higashida (Kenta Kiritani). When the steel company's office is found empty, Hanzawa tracks down Higashida, the company's seemingly slick financial manager.
10/10. A flawless pilot. Watch it now. And when you finish, you’ll immediately reach for Episode 2. Double.
Airing on July 7, 2013, the pilot episode of this TBS drama didn’t just introduce a character; it detonated a narrative bomb that would redefine the "business revenge" genre for a decade. For new viewers wondering where the obsession began, and for veterans wanting to relive the fury, dissecting Episode 1 is essential. It is a perfect hour of television that establishes stakes, character, and a villain so despicable you can almost feel the steam rising from Hanzawa’s glasses.