Ep. 38: Hikaru learns about professional exam struggles while Akira attempts to teach Kosuke Ochi.
Aired on July 3, 2002
During a lunch break in his match against Tsubaki, Hikaru discovers that many candidates face significant difficulties regarding education and employment while preparing for the professional exam. At this juncture, Hikaru holds a record of eight victories and one defeat. Meanwhile, Akira agrees to provide private lessons to Kosuke Ochi, hoping to gauge the skill level Hikaru possesses. Ochi eventually realizes Akira's true motive and declines the instruction, refusing to be taught by someone he considers inferior. This sequence highlights the broader challenges players encounter alongside their competitive pursuits.
Episodes
- Ep. 34 · Akira plays four simultaneous matches while instructed to lose, demonstrating his cunning abilities.
- Ep. 35 · Hikaru visits a Korean salon and challenges Su-Young Hong to prove Japan's Go strength
- Ep. 36 · Hikaru and Su-Young compete in a match where Hikaru's risky move leads to victory.
- Ep. 37 · The professional exam starts with increased intensity after pairings are decided
- Ep. 38 · Hikaru learns about professional exam struggles while Akira attempts to teach Kosuke Ochi.
- Ep. 39 · Hikaru faces undefeated Isumi who cheats during a tense match on day twelve.
- Ep. 40 · Isumi's Guilt and Ochi's Deduction Lead to a Critical Exam Match
- Ep. 41 · Isumi defeats Ochi while Hikaru reaches thirteen wins in fifteen days
- Ep. 42 · Ochi passes exam with one loss while Hikaru faces pressure for remaining spots