Tensions Rise in 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' as Kim Jun-han Awakens from Coma
The drama 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' takes a new turn as Kim Jun-han's character awakens from a coma. This series marks Ha Jung-woo's return to television after 19 years, following his last appearance in MBC's 'Hit' in 2007, and has been highly anticipated.

In the sixth episode aired on the 29th, the plot thickens around the Seyun Building, with Ha Jung-woo's character, Ki Soo-jong, driven by an insatiable desire for redevelopment. His pursuit of a life-changing opportunity brings both happiness and anxiety, creating a tense atmosphere.

The episode achieved a viewership rating of 3.6% in the Seoul metropolitan area, peaking at 4.3%, and 3.5% nationwide, peaking at 4.1%, securing the top spot among cable and general programming channels in its time slot. Despite featuring a star-studded cast including Ha Jung-woo, Im Soo-jung, Jung Soo-jung, and Shim Eun-kyung, the previous episode recorded a series-low rating of 2.6%.

Tensions Rise in 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' as Kim Jun-han Awakens from Coma
The shocking death of Jeon Yang-ja (played by Kim Geum-soon) at the hands of Oh Dong-gi (played by Hyun Bong-sik) leaves everyone in shock. Jeon Yi-kyung (played by Jung Soo-jung) experiences a flashback of her kidnapping while inspecting the cold storage where her mother was injured, leading to her fainting. Amidst the tragedy, she learns of her long-awaited pregnancy. Despite her resentment towards her money-driven mother, she resolves to change, overwhelmed by anger and sorrow.

Oh Dong-gi, now a fugitive and suspected kidnapper of Jeon Yi-kyung, demands 2 billion won to keep secrets from being exposed, causing anxiety for Ki Soo-jong and Kim Sun (played by Im Soo-jung).

Ki Soo-jong, however, has other plans. He contemplates using the money to purchase Hanmaeum Building from Kim No-in (played by Nam Myung-ryul), who offers an additional 100 billion won on top of the 200 billion won for Seyun Building. Despite Kim Sun's warnings of potential disaster, Ki Soo-jong is tempted by the opportunity.

Struggling with indecision, Ki Soo-jong regrets his involvement in a fake kidnapping scheme with Min Hwal-seong (played by Kim Jun-han) but is unable to resist the lure of achieving his redevelopment goals. His inner conflict is vividly portrayed in a dream where Min Hwal-seong taunts him as a 'loser,' prompting Ki Soo-jong to make a firm decision.

Tensions Rise in 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' as Kim Jun-han Awakens from Coma
Ki Soo-jong persuades Kim Sun to frame Oh Dong-gi for the kidnapping, planting evidence in his motel room. As they head to meet Oh Dong-gi, Kim Sun informs a loan shark hired by Jeon Yi-kyung of the meeting location. However, the police are tailing Ki Soo-jong, leading to an unforeseen incident where Oh Dong-gi is shot and killed by the police.

With the acquisition of Hanmaeum Building, Ki Soo-jong moves closer to his redevelopment dream. Kim No-in advises, "Having more doesn't mean happiness," to which Ki Soo-jong responds, "I just want enough for my family. This is the last time." Yet, as he revels in his dream of turning his life around, Min Hwal-seong awakens from his coma, confronting Ki Soo-jong at Seyun Building with the question, "Are you happy?" This cliffhanger ending raises anticipation for the new developments Min Hwal-seong's return will bring.

Additionally, the episode heightens tension as Jeon Yi-kyung begins to suspect Kim Sun. While caring for the pregnant Jeon Yi-kyung, Kim Sun recommends a hospital, leading Jeon Yi-kyung to notice a connection between 'Nurse Ju' recommended by Kim Sun and a contact found on Min Hwal-seong's phone. As Jeon Yi-kyung inches closer to uncovering the truth behind the kidnapping, viewers are left eager for the unfolding story.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr