Actor Hwang Dong-joo shared his thoughts on the happy ending of the KBS 1TV drama 'Mari and the Strange Dads', marking the conclusion of the series. Hwang, who gained popularity last year on the KBS Joy dating show 'Pursuing Old Relationships' with a romantic storyline involving Lee Young-ja, expressed his gratitude to the viewers.

The final episode, which aired on the 27th of last month, featured the wedding of obstetrics intern Kang Mari (played by Ha Seung-ri) and her senior and lover Lee Kang-se (played by Hyun Woo). The reconciliation between Mari's biological father Lee Poong-joo (played by Ryu Jin) and her adoptive father Kang Min-bo (played by Hwang Dong-joo) for the happiness of their daughter touched the audience.

On the wedding day, Kang Min-bo approached Lee Poong-joo, who was making a flower basket, and jokingly remarked, "Who does she take after to be so independent?" Lee Poong-joo acknowledged Kang Min-bo as Mari's father, saying, "Children take after their parents, don't they? Isn't that right, Mari's father?" Surprised by the unexpected comment, Kang Min-bo asked, "Are you being sarcastic?"

Lee Poong-joo denied it, saying, "Of course not. Don't covet someone else's basket, just clap enthusiastically and wipe your tears." Kang Min-bo expressed his gratitude, "Thank you. Without you, Lee Poong-joo, our Mari wouldn't be here." Lee Poong-joo responded, "I'm more grateful. Mari's warm heart probably comes from you, Kang Min-bo." Kang Min-bo humorously suggested, "Shall we call it a joint production then?" creating a warm atmosphere.

Kang Mari, who walked down the aisle with her husband Lee Kang-se without the traditional lighting of candles by both mothers, thanked her two fathers and the mother who raised her. The scene where Kang Min-bo turned away in disgust after witnessing a passionate kiss between his ex-wife Joo Si-ra (played by Park Eun-hye) and Lee Poong-joo brought laughter to the end of the drama.

Hwang Dong-joo, who played Kang Min-bo, one of the three potential fathers of Kang Mari conceived through sperm donation, showcased warm paternal love and charisma, earning praise as the 'Prince of Daily Dramas'. Recently, Hwang expressed his special affection for the drama on his social media, stating, "This was a project I filmed with so much happiness, leaving a lasting impression." He also thanked everyone involved in 'Mari and the Strange Dads', his agency T&I Cultures, and his fan club 'Donggam', adding a heartwarming touch.

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