Viral Hit episode 7: Special Training to Fight the Devil

On May 23, 2024, in Japan, episode 7 of Viral Hit was released. This installment centers on Hobin’s preparation for his upcoming fight, while also showcasing new sides to Snapper and Hobin. Hobin fearlessly accepts a challenge from a professional fighter, while Snapper starts to abandon his previous cowardly behavior.

Based on the previous episode, it is clear that Taehun is a formidable adversary and facing him requires extensive preparation and research. In a refreshing departure from the norm, episode 7 of Viral Hit shows Hobin enlisting the aid of Gaeul and Snapper in his training for the upcoming fight, instead of training alone.

Despite this, Taehun is not comparable to Pakgo. Being a professional MMA fighter requires more than just learning new moves in order to fight and survive, let alone defeat them.

Viral Hit Episode 7: Learning How to Fight a Pro Fighter

Taehun’s Terror Continues

Taehun's terror in Viral Hit episode 7 (Image via Okuruto Noboru) — Taehun’s terror in Viral Hit episode 7 (Image via Okuruto Noboru)

In Viral Hit episode 7, the primary focus is on the ongoing threat and fear posed by Taehun, a former MMA fighter and expert in Taekwondo who was introduced in episode 6. Taehun continues to physically harm Snapper and makes threats towards Hobin, demanding that he surrender the Newtubu account in exchange for their safety.

Despite considering using his current techniques, Hobin fears that he will suffer the same defeat as Snapper if he fights Taehun. Ultimately, Hobin gives in to Taehun’s intimidation and is met with a slap to the face. Even after losing to Hobin at the arcade, Taehun continues to harass and threaten him.

Taehun’s kick is powerful enough to break Snapper’s ribs and the glass of an arcade game machine. However, even without the use of his legs, Taehun proves to be a skilled fighter as he quickly responds to Hobin’s attempted tackle with a series of rapid punches and then proceeds to dominate Hobin with slaps, despite Hobin’s attempt at a calf kick counter.

Snapper and Hobin’s growth

Viral Hit episode 7: Hobin and Snapper's growth (Image via Okuruto Noboru) — Viral Hit episode 7: Hobin and Snapper’s growth (Image via Okuruto Noboru)

After Jihyeok Wu’s real name is exposed in episode 7 of Viral Hit, he goes by the name Snapper. He sustains cracked ribs from Taehun and experiences even greater emotional pain when Hobin gives away their Newtubu channel. Snapper confesses that Hobin’s determination to not fight Taehun deeply affects him, as it was Hobin who had motivated him to take pride in their fight against Pakgo.

Despite his desire to fight for Gaeul’s sake, Snapper breaks down sobbing as he realizes he may be seen as a loser by her. This reminds Hobin of his own embarrassment in front of Bomi in episode 4 and his determination to fight, even if it means sacrificing his pride to survive against Taehun.

This experience is beneficial for both of them. Hobin takes the initiative to meet Taehun at the arcade he often visits, uses what he has learned from Samdak to rile him up, and ultimately challenges him to a fight in just one month. This is a drastic change from the timid child who used to shy away from confrontations.

Since episode 5, Snapper has shown significant growth by no longer hiding and sucking up, and instead choosing to be brave and reciprocate Hobin’s friendship.

Hobin’s Next Training: Defeating a Taekwondo Fighter

Viral Hit episode 7: Hobin's next training (Image via Okuruto Noboru) — Viral Hit episode 7: Hobin’s next training (Image via Okuruto Noboru)

To kick off Hobin’s upcoming training session in a humorous way, Samdak declares that it is impossible for a regular person to defeat a pro and provides a detailed list of the potential fatal consequences. However, the catch is that the training is not focused on traditional martial arts for professional fighting, but rather on self-defense and survival techniques, which may involve fighting dirty.

The current training routine incorporates both physical exercises such as pull-ups and repeated punches and kicks, as well as strategic techniques for managing different environments. For Hobin, this entails creating a wet setting in a rainy alley and mastering the ability to maintain balance on slippery surfaces. Along with his usual drills, he also utilizes water shoes at the bathhouse to improve his footing on wet surfaces.

In episode 5, Hobin’s training was a solitary affair. However, this time, Gaeul and Snapper joined him to spice things up. Snapper wanted to keep their audience interested, while Gaeul offered her assistance in Hobin’s training. This involved her stomping on him to toughen his abs, proving her claim of possessing powerful kicks. Snapper couldn’t help but feel envious of Hobin’s experience, which only fueled his infatuation with Gaeul.

The Day of the Fight and Hobin’s Improvisation

Viral Hit episode 7: Hobin's improvisation skills (Image via Okuruto Noboru) — Viral Hit episode 7: Hobin’s improvisation skills (Image via Okuruto Noboru)

Despite a full month of intense training, the day of the fight finally arrives. To Hobin’s dismay, the weather forecast was completely inaccurate as there was no sign of rain. This greatly concerns Hobin as he fears he won’t be able to defend against Taehun’s powerful kicks, almost causing him to consider giving up the fight on live television.

Despite this, Hobin’s actions can still be considered a form of diversion as he continues to utilize the environment to his advantage by engaging in a fight in a wet bathroom. He employs a hose to drench both Taehun and the restroom, and puts his water shoes and training to use to prevent slipping. However, there is one major obstacle: Taehun’s proficiency with his legs.

As previously mentioned, Taehun is known as “The Striking Martial Artist.”He is not limited to using only his legs and feet in fights, as he also possesses quick and powerful fists, a skill that is expected of someone who used to be an MMA fighter. The preview for the upcoming episode suggests that the fight will be more challenging than the one where Pakgo was knocked out with a calf kick and Overhand Hook, as shown by Hobin’s ability to get back up after being brutally kicked and beaten by Taehun.

Final Thoughts

Viral Hit episode 7 - other memorable shots (Image via Okuruto Noboru) — Viral Hit episode 7 – other memorable shots (Image via Okuruto Noboru)

Despite the potential for serious harm in Viral Hit episode 7, Hobin is fortunate to emerge unscathed. This episode marks a significant turning point for Hobin as he learns to stand up for himself and actively seek out confrontations instead of avoiding them. Similarly, Snapper experiences growth as a character by finding a sense of purpose and protection instead of relying on others and cowering in fear.

Additionally, Gaeul proves to be a valuable asset once again. Her appearance as Old Man Ding in episode 6 not only showcases her proficiency in fighting techniques, but also hints at a possible connection to Hobin or being one of his students. The episode preview further suggests that her kick to Hobin might have a positive effect on his core, potentially making him more resistant to Taehun’s kicks.

To summarize, Viral Hit episode 7 serves as a preview and introduction to the upcoming battle with Taehun. Hobin’s life has greatly improved since he began standing up for himself in episode 2, but his opponents are becoming more challenging and the pressure is mounting. Fortunately, he has the support of his friends Snapper and Gaeul. However, it would greatly benefit his mindset if he were to finally return Bomi’s call after two months.