I requested Mr. Choi to keep the construction strictly confidential and not to ask questions about the building until he stamped his signature on the investment proposal of the paper company. Although this could have increased his interest in buildings, the building itself was already attractive enough that it grabbed his attention. 

“No matter what I say, my company is trying to construct an ugly building. It will look awkward, and journalists and local politicians will come running once it is built. Large construction firms are weak to that kind of pressure,” I said.

“Oh, yes,” Mr. Choi replied. 

I continued, “Since large firms co-exist with the media and local politicians, they won’t be able to reject their demands.”

“I know what you mean, and I’ll keep that in mind,” he responded.

“Of course, such a thing shouldn’t happen, but our headquarters has taken the position that it would be easier to control...