The original Genie TV drama 'My Precious Star' (directed by Choi Young-hoon, written by Park Ji-ha, planned by KT Studio Genie, produced by Jumbo Film and Studio Bom) concluded on the 23rd with a viewership rating of 4.3%. Bong Cheong-ja (played by Uhm Jung-hwa) and Dokgo Cheol (played by Song Seung-heon) rediscovered their lost dreams and soared once again. Reuniting from their darkest moments, they illuminated each other, completing their dreams and love. The romance that transcended 25 years brought more than just excitement; it delivered overwhelming emotion.
The final episode aired on ENA achieved its highest ratings, with a nationwide viewership of 4.3% and 3.9% in the metropolitan area, according to Nielsen Korea's paid household ratings, setting a new record for ENA's Monday-Tuesday dramas in 2025.
On this day, Bong Cheong-ja discovered a recording file among Bong Seok-bong's (played by Ryu Tae-ho) belongings, revealing the truth behind a life-altering incident. Go Hee-young (played by Lee Da-yeon) had leaked to Do Ik-hwan that Im Se-ra (played by Jang Da-ah) held evidence, and although Kang Doo-won (played by Heo Geon-young) knew, he remained silent out of greed and fear. Sa Seon-young (played by Song Si-an) joined forces to bring down Im Se-ra.
Despite the betrayal of those she trusted, Bong Cheong-ja steadied herself. Go Hee-young (played by Lee El) was terrified by the changed Bong Cheong-ja. While Go Hee-young was anxious about the truth being exposed, Bong Cheong-ja was unwavering in her resolve to slowly bring her down. Go Hee-young, filled with rage, cursed to crush her as she did 25 years ago. However, Bong Cheong-ja retorted, "You continue living in hell. I'll soar again," shaking her even more.
Go Hee-young's fury marked the beginning of her downfall. The end of 25 years of evil deeds came. Dokgo Cheol succeeded in capturing Kwak Jeong-do (played by Park Joong-geun) while he was attempting to flee. The key to overturning the lack of evidence was the survival of Kang Dae-gu (played by Heo Jae-ho). Meanwhile, Kang Doo-won (played by Oh Dae-hwan) did not back down easily. Even when cornered, he shamelessly claimed to Bong Cheong-ja that she succeeded because of him and tried to negotiate evidence and sentencing with Detective Dokgo Cheol. However, it no longer worked. Dokgo Cheol finally found the last puzzle piece from Kang Doo-won to capture Min Guk-hee (played by Jung Hae-kyun), and those who trampled and climbed to shine met a pitiful end.
Bong Cheong-ja, who overcame all adversities on her own, began to soar. She completed the film 'Miscasting,' which was halted due to Go Hee-young's departure, and was nominated for Best Supporting Actress, even establishing 'Bong Entertainment.' "I've seen people achieve their dreams, but you're the first to reclaim a lost dream," said Dokgo Cheol, to which Bong Cheong-ja replied, "You were the first person to believe in me when I said I'd make a comeback." Between them was deep affection and trust. Bong Cheong-ja then made a final offer to Dokgo Cheol to be her manager for a day. The stage was none other than the red carpet.
25 years ago, rookie detective Dokgo Cheol, who supported 'Im Se-ra' from afar, now walked alongside Bong Cheong-ja, sharing in the glory. Bong Cheong-ja embraced the Best Supporting Actress award. Amidst the flashing lights, she shone brighter than ever. Her acceptance speech, encouraging everyone to endure and persevere, was touching. Just like the day she thanked '0728,' she dedicated the award to her precious manager '0728,' who was the driving force and unwavering support from the beginning, bringing a tender thrill.
The finale of Bong Cheong-ja's tumultuous comeback show was a confession. At the press conference, when asked about her relationship with her manager, Bong Cheong-ja called him a precious person. Dokgo Cheol's confession followed, expressing his desire to be someone who can walk in the light with her. Bong Cheong-ja's smile and eye contact with Dokgo Cheol decorated the finale with a rosy hue. The two, who reunited from their darkest moments and illuminated each other, left viewers anticipating their future steps together, marking a perfect happy ending.
'My Precious Star' captivated viewers with its unique time-transcending romance. The comeback show of 'career-interrupted top star' Bong Cheong-ja (=Im Se-ra), who had 25 years of memories edited out, brought refreshing laughter, while the mystery intertwined with the time leap added thrilling fun. Bong Cheong-ja and Dokgo Cheol, who became each other's light and salvation, shared a love story that spanned 25 years, making it truly special.
Reporter Kim Se-ah, Ten Asia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr