105. The Korean Surgeon

November 23, 1976 (U-814)

Written by: Bill Idelson
Directed by: Gene Reynolds
Guest Stars: Soon-Teck Oh, as Syn Paik. Robert Ito and Larry Hama, as The North Koreans. Richard Russell Ramos, as the MP.
Larry Hama is probably better known as a writer of comic books, most notably G.I. Joe and Wolverine.
Semi-regulars: Dennis Troy has been in this show almost as much as Soon-Teck Oh.

Plot: A busload of casualties has several North Koreans on it, amongst them a US-trained surgeon, Syn Paik. When Paik tries to help an American in post-op Hot Lips think he is trying to kill him, and tries to have him arrested as a spy. Hawkeye and BJ and Radar connive to have him transferred to the outfit as a South Korean surgeon. A pair of Koreans turn up asking for medical supplies. Burns goes off with them to deliver a lecture to their unit, but they turn out to be North Koreans who wanted a hostage to get past the road-blocks. When Paik raises the alarm, he is discovered and arrested. The North Korean kidnappers finally get so sick of Burns they kick him out of the jeep. He comes back to camp somewhat deflated.

Glitches: When Burns gives his ID to the MP at the road-block, he doesn't actually get it back. I guess he doesn't need it.

BIMOL: Father Mulcahy is a little underused again.

Great Lines: Radar: 'I bet you know some great places for Chinese food.' Paik: 'One or two. But they're all in Chicago.'

The Klinger Collection: He wears a highly tasteful nurse's outfit with a navy blue cape. Later, a brown suit with a pink polka-dot blouse.

Continuity is for Wimps: And it is!

They All Look the Same to Me: Soon-Teck Oh again, in a very unconvincing beard. When will they agree on a spelling for his name? And Robert Ito makes his return appearance after debuting all the way back in Episode 2. To Market, To Market. (Season 1.)

Comments: Another episode which demonstrates the annoying nature of the war. Burns's blatant stupidity is hilarious. Possibly the best part of this episode is when poor old Syn Paik loses that dreadful beard, which would shame any serious bear-wearer. Radar has another of many slightly illicit dealings with Sparky.

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