On the 4th, Park Ji-hyun opened the first episode of tvN's 'I'll Give You the Universe' with her special appearance. The drama follows the chaotic cohabitation romance of a man and woman, who become entangled from their first meeting and suddenly find themselves raising their 20-month-old nephew, Woo-joo.
Park Ji-hyun portrayed Woo Hyun-joo, the sister of Hyun-jin (played by Roh Jeong-eui) and mother of Woo-joo (played by Park Yoo-ho). Hyun-joo is a warm character who has always put her sister first, filling the void left by their parents since childhood. Her overflowing love for her sister made her a reliable support for Hyun-jin, showcasing their special sisterly bond.
Despite Hyun-joo's intention to delay her marriage until Hyun-jin was settled, she eventually married Woo-jin (played by Ha Joon) due to Hyun-jin's wish for her sister to live for herself. However, three years into Hyun-joo's marriage, Hyun-jin, feeling stagnant and low in self-esteem, was hurt by Hyun-joo's well-meaning but inadvertently painful words and actions. Tragically, before they could mend their relationship, Hyun-joo died in a car accident, leaving behind a sorrowful farewell.
Park Ji-hyun conveyed the character's emotions with her delicate acting and delivery. Her eyes, wounded by Hyun-jin's harsh words, evoked sympathy, while her constant care for her sister was touching. The chemistry between Park Ji-hyun and Roh Jeong-eui added to the drama's appeal.
Starting 2026 with her special appearance in 'I'll Give You the Universe', Park Ji-hyun is set to appear in the films 'Wild Thing', 'Autograph', and the drama 'Going to Work Tomorrow!'.
Reporter Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr