Episode 8 of "The Art of Negotiation" resumes seamlessly from its cliffhanger conclusion. Tae-su diligently continues his negotiations with SAMOEL for a loan, with the latter initially proposing an 18% interest rate. Tae-su, optimistic, assures Jae-sik that he might manage to bring it down to 15%. However, Jae-sik swiftly dismisses this, unwavering in his demand for a 10% rate.
Elsewhere, the M&A team convenes, discussing Ji-o's apparent inability to manage the resort effectively. The following day, resort staff members spot representatives from Sanin staying at DADO and promptly inform Jae-sik's secretary.
In a parallel scenario, Joo-no and his team meet with the CEO of a neighboring hotel that had previously attempted to acquire DADO, only to have the deal collapse due to Ji-o's refusal to sell. This time around, they reach a consensus at a price of 60 million. However, the hotel CEO insists on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) from Sanin to solidify the deal and establish a formal partnership.
Just as the M&A team prepares to present their plan to Ji-o, Jae-sik learns of their presence at the resort. Enraged, he summarily orders them to return immediately and tender their resignations.
Concurrently, Tae-su concludes his negotiations with SAMOEL, securing a reduced interest rate, albeit with a stringent condition—Sanin must pledge double the stocks as collateral.
Back at the resort, Ji-o chances upon Min-jung discussing her impending unemployment. She attempts to strike up a conversation, but Min-jung pointedly underscores the vast disparity in their circumstances, highlighting Ji-o's privilege.
The next day, as the M&A team prepares to depart, Ji-o halts their exit and requests a proposal outlining strategies to enhance DADO. However, as they deliberate on potential revenue-boosting initiatives, she categorically rejects any suggestions aimed at increasing revenue, steadfast in her belief that the resort's primary goal should be to ensure guest happiness. If necessary, she is prepared to sell the resort. Min-jung then brings up a pivotal point: selling DADO would have dire consequences for its employees.
As Ji-o strides away, Joo-no calls after her, concern etched across his brow, inquiring gently about her wellbeing. For the very first time, her guard slips, unveiling the harrowing truth that she battles cancer once again. Though she's a survivor of the deadly disease, its return has left her with a grim choice: surgery, offering merely a fifty-fifty shot at life. This revelation is the underpinning reason behind her steadfast refusal to sell the cherished resort; it's where she wishes to spend her remaining days.
Eventually, the group makes its way back to Seoul. Tae-su breaks the news to Jae-sik about SAMOEL's stringent new loan stipulations, while Joo-no formally tenders his resignation. Just then, Jae-sik's phone buzzes with an unexpected call from Ji-o. She's reversed her stance, agreeing to part with the resort and embrace the surgical odyssey.
A palpable sense of relief washes over Jae-sik as he discovers a fresh contract left behind by Joo-no's team, embodying a heartfelt gesture: Ji-o will retain her sanctuary at the resort, a lifetime home without a price tag, long after the acquisition. In exchange, Sanin's promotional alliance with the hotel will flourish.
Overwhelmed by an ocean of emotions and boundless gratitude, Jae-sik makes a decision that will resonate deeply. He extends an invitation to Joo-no to join the board, fostering a fascinating shift in power dynamics as the episode draws to a close, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
