Kim Hee-sun Takes a Stand Against Injustice in 'No Next Life'

Kim Hee-sun has declared a bold stand against injustice.

In episode 9 of TV CHOSUN's Monday-Tuesday miniseries 'No Next Life,' Kim Hee-sun (playing Jo Na-jung) portrays the inner turmoil of choosing between silence for her family's sake and her conscience to remain an honest parent to her child.

Na-jung initially suggests to her husband Won-bin (played by Yoon Park) to cover up the sexual harassment incident involving Sun-min (played by Seo Eun-young) to protect their family. However, the discomfort in her heart doesn't fade easily. The situation escalates when her son Min-woo (played by Jo Se-woong) lies about an incident at kindergarten, leading Na-jung to a painful realization. Min-woo, the only witness to a fight with a friend, hides the truth, tempted by a toy car.

Scolding Min-woo, who was convinced by the notion "It's okay because no one saw," Na-jung questions herself, 'What right do I have to teach my child?' She realizes that as a parent, making dishonest choices ultimately teaches her child to lie. Na-jung finally decides to stop avoiding the issue and chooses justice.

Na-jung reports Kim Jung-sik, the head of the department (played by Lee Kwan-hoon), who harassed Sun-min, to the ethics committee. However, the reality is harsh. Instead, Won-bin faces allegations of infidelity and is demoted to a logistics center. As Won-bin blames himself and sits in despair, Na-jung encourages him, "Lift your head. We did nothing wrong. I will clear your name no matter what. Just focus on fighting back." This marks a turning point as they take a step forward against fear.

Kim Hee-sun masterfully portrays the fear of wanting to ignore the truth, the guilt as a parent, and the firm resolve for her child through her nuanced and restrained emotional performance. Balancing family devotion with social responsibility, she convincingly conveys the weight of conscience and responsibility. Anticipation builds for Kim Hee-sun's future actions in the series.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr