Veteran actress Jeon Soo-kyung, in her 39th year of acting, shared an emotional moment on TV CHOSUN's 'Dad and Me Season 3' as she listened to her 97-year-old father's heartfelt stories for the first time. The episode, aired on the 4th, garnered a viewership rating of 3.9%, with peak ratings reaching 4.2%.
Jeon, who is married to an American and has twin daughters, revealed her daily life with her father, who was born in 1930 and has lived through significant historical events such as the Japanese occupation, Korean War, and Vietnam War. Her daughters encouraged her to showcase their grandfather's vibrant and healthy lifestyle on television.
Despite nearing 100, Jeon's father exudes youthful energy. He starts his day by playing music on his smartphone and dancing, followed by a series of exercises including stretching and hip joint workouts. His passion for singing and performing is evident as he enjoys karaoke, stating, "When I sing, I have no other thoughts. Music is all I need." His positive and healthy lifestyle impressed viewers and co-host Lim Hyung-joo.
Jeon Soo-kyung visited her father's home, ensuring his health and organizing his belongings. The house was filled with items he couldn't part with, reminiscent of many parents' tendencies to hoard. Co-host Jeon Hyun-moo shared similar experiences with his parents, highlighting the generational differences in valuing possessions.
The father-daughter duo visited their favorite barbecue restaurant, where Jeon's father impressed everyone with his keen eyesight and hearty appetite. Despite her concerns about his salty diet, Jeon Soo-kyung cherished these moments with her father.
They also revisited the market where her father once ran a shoe store, bringing back fond memories. Jeon gifted her father new shoes, which he appreciated deeply, marking the first time he received such a gift from his daughter.
At home, Jeon shared a photo album with her father, reminiscing about her childhood and her father's pride in her achievements. However, the album also led to a poignant conversation about her two older brothers, whom she never met. Her father recounted the tragic loss of his sons, one to an accident and the other to illness, expressing the indescribable pain he endured.
For the first time, Jeon's father opened up about these painful memories, wishing only to spend joyful times with his daughter. This heartfelt revelation brought tears to Jeon's eyes. As the Lunar New Year approached, Jeon planned to join her father at a veterans' meeting, where he serves as vice-chairman, to further connect with his life experiences.
By Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr