"Burning Years presents the criminal underworld of the 1970s and 1980s, but as Kun Ge's final words in the drama suggest, those who get involved in the murky world of gangs and crime are destined for a tragic fate. Therefore, the evil forces portrayed in this drama meet a miserable end, including the charismatic protagonist, Biaozi, who also meets his demise due to excessive blood loss.

The Diao family, particularly Diao Yu and his father, are the ones who make Biaozi consider leaving the underworld. Diao Yu is young and hot-tempered, but loyal, while Diao Zhe is cunning and unprincipled. Although they collaborate with Biaozi in smuggling, they secretly engage in drug trafficking. This is the source of Diao Zhe's drug addiction, and in the end, he commits suicide to save Biaozi's son. When Diao Yu witnesses his father's death, he is filled with rage but is ultimately eliminated by the formidable warrior, Leizi, and both meet their tragic end.

Fu Erqing is an antagonist encountered by Biaozi and his group in the early stages. Initially, his existence seems incredible, mainly due to his individual combat skills and apparent invincibility. Even when trapped in a raging fire, he manages to escape by severing his arm. However, compared to the later antagonists faced by Biaozi and his comrades, Fu Erqing is merely a small-time thug and is ultimately killed by the police.

Then there are Biaozi's two brothers, Di Chu Liu and Huang Si. Di Chu Liu meets his demise by being stabbed, showing his unwavering loyalty. In comparison to the other characters, Huang Si has the best outcome. He takes the blame for Biaozi's smuggling activities and spends over twenty years in prison, but at least he survives.

However, once he is released, he may never see his brothers again. Therefore, it can be said that "Burning Years" is not just a drama but also an educational film, teaching everyone to avoid getting involved in the criminal underworld and instead abide by the law."