4 Essential Terms To Know Before Watching “Omniscient Reader”

Jun 19, 2025

The highly anticipated new film “Omniscient Reader” has revealed key terms that will enhance the viewing experience!

Based on the popular web novel of the same name, “Omniscient Reader” will tell the story of Kim Dok Ja (Ahn Hyo Seop), who suddenly finds himself living in the world of a fantasy novel he was reading. Armed with the knowledge of what happened in the novel, Kim Dok Ja sets out to save the world from ending. Lee Min Ho stars as Yoo Joong Hyuk, the protagonist from the novel that Kim Dok Ja read.

Kim Dok Ja, an ordinary office worker and the only person to have finished the novel “Three Ways to Survive in a Ruined World,” which was serialized for more than 10 years, is on his way home from work on the subway when the story ends and its world suddenly comes to life before his eyes.

Here are the key terms viewers should know:

1. Scenario

The first important term is “scenario.” In a world where fiction becomes reality, each person is assigned a scenario they must complete in order to survive. These missions, such as “kill at least one living being” or “cross a broken bridge,” vary in difficulty, time limits, completion conditions, and rewards.

In the original novel, only the main character Yoo Joong Hyuk survives by clearing every scenario. Disappointed by that ending, Kim Dok Ja chooses to create a new outcome—one where everyone survives together.

How many scenarios will appear in the film? How will Kim Dok Ja and his companions complete them? And how much will they grow along the way? Watching their journey is one of the most compelling aspects of exploring this bold and imaginative world.

2. Bihyeong

The second key term is “Bihyeong,” a dokkaebi (Korean goblin) who suddenly appears before the frightened subway passengers to deliver their scenarios. Although Bihyeong has a round and playful appearance, the missions it presents are anything but lighthearted—they are terrifying.

Kim Dok Ja, knowing the entire plot of the novel, takes full advantage of Bihyeong’s unique abilities. He gathers critical information and trades for weapons and items from the dokkaebi pouch to help complete each scenario.

From the moment it appears, Bihyeong captures attention with its quirky energy and unpredictable personality. Its role is expected to bring both humor and unexpected twists, making it one of the film’s most memorable characters.

3. Coins

The third essential element is “coins,” the main currency for survival in the novel’s world. Coins are awarded as rewards for completing scenarios, with the amount and type varying based on the mission.

Characters can use coins to improve their stats—such as strength, endurance, or agility—or to purchase weapons, gear, and other helpful items. Because coins are directly tied to survival, intense conflicts often arise over earning and protecting them. Coins also become especially important during critical moments that Kim Dok Ja must face.

With every scenario that Kim Dok Ja and his allies complete, viewers are left wondering what mission or reward lies ahead—and how these trials will continue to shape Kim Dok Ja’s journey.

4. Constellations and Sponsor

The final key term is “Constellations”—powerful beings who observe all the scenarios from beyond Earth. These entities take on the role of “Sponsor” for specific individuals, offering equipment, resources and special skills.

When a character struggles to complete a scenario, they can receive support through their connection with a “Sponsor.”

Each character forms a unique partnership with a “Sponsor,” gaining access to specialized weapons and abilities. As the scenarios grow more difficult, they depend on that support to survive, delivering a cinematic experience that feels exciting and unlike anything seen before.