Kim Ki-Taek used to work as a driver, but lost his job a long time ago. He lives with his wife, Chun Suk and two senior-age children in a basement apartment.
One day, Ki Taek's son Ki Woo is visited by his friend Min Hyuk, who works as an English tutor for a girl from a rich family. Min Hyuk goes to study abroad and offers Ki-Woo to take his place and gives Ki-Woo the scholar's stone, which is supposed to bring the family wealth.
Ki-Woo is interviewed at the Park family's luxury mansion. He makes a good impression on Mrs. Park and gets a job. An unusual plan occurs to him.