The fifth episode of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama 'To the Moon' (planned by Jang Jae-hoon/directed by Oh Da-young, Jung Hoon/written by Na Yoon-chae), aired on the 3rd, was themed 'The Qualifications of a Protagonist.' The episode showcased the tumultuous work life of the 'ordinary trio' Jung Da-hae (played by Lee Sun-bin), Kang Eun-sang (Ra Mi-ran), and Kim Ji-song (Jo A-ram). Da-hae found herself emotionally stirred by the confession of 'Hambaksa' Ham Ji-woo (Kim Young-dae).
In this episode, Jung Da-hae couldn't hide her bitterness as she watched Jung Da-hee (Hong Seung-hee) and Hambaksa model together at a company promotional video shoot. While Da-hee was dubbed the 'Princess of Maron,' Da-hae was dismissed from the set, being referred to as 'Mother.' As the company's anniversary event approached, Da-hae competed with Da-hee for the seat next to Hambaksa, ultimately winning it through a game of rock-paper-scissors.
However, on the day of the event, Da-hae lost her seat next to Hambaksa and was left clapping from the sidelines, unable to take the stage. To make matters worse, a wine bottle mishap left her with a nosebleed, staining her white dress red. Overhearing her team members' gossip and facing unjust criticism from team leader Ko Dae-young (Eum Moon-suk) added to her emotional wounds. The comment comparing her to 'angel hair under a flounder' while wearing a white dress with Da-hee cut deep into her heart.
Hambaksa encouraged the disheartened Da-hae, telling her she could make any place her stage. Inspired, Da-hae reaffirmed her belief in herself, declaring, "I can be amazing wherever I am, wearing whatever I wear." When a delivery mishap left the event without the promised pork cutlet snacks, Hambaksa took to the stage to sing and buy time, while Da-hae sourced pork cutlets from the cafeteria, turning the situation around. Her quick thinking earned applause from her colleagues and even the president of Maron Confectionery.
That night, Da-hae and Hambaksa walked together under the cherry blossoms. Hambaksa's confession, likening his abandoned musical dreams to 'a pebble in his shoe,' brought them closer. His admission that he endured the discomfort because he wanted to keep walking with her touched Da-hae deeply. Though she tried to attribute her feelings to the rising 'coin train,' Hambaksa had already found a place in her heart.
Previously, Da-hae had confessed that she endured tough times by listening to his music. Hambaksa expressed his overwhelming joy, saying, "Knowing my music saved someone makes me insanely happy." Their heightened emotions culminated in a passionate kiss.
Despite ridicule, discrimination, and unexpected humiliations, Da-hae ultimately created her stage in her own way. Her courage to rise again and her unwavering self-belief illuminated what it means to be a 'protagonist.' The steadfast friendship of Eun-sang and Ji-song added depth to the story of the 'ordinary trio,' leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Meanwhile, the sixth episode of 'To the Moon,' which combines the warmth of friendship and the excitement of romance, will air on the 4th at 9:50 PM.
Reporter Chaeryeong Lim, TenAsia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr