Kim Hee-jung Delivers a Heart-Wrenching Performance in Latest Episodes

Actress Kim Hee-jung delivered a powerful performance in episodes 37 and 38, which aired on the 13th and 14th.

Kim Hee-jung portrayed the character of Da-jung, who is plunged into unexpected shock and grief after losing her mother-in-law in a sudden car accident and suffering a concussion herself. She realistically depicted the struggles of a mother and wife trying to hold her family together amidst adversity.

In episode 37, aired on the 13th, Da-jung is seen lying in bed with a bandage on her forehead, silently weeping. She receives a diagnosis from medical staff that she needs complete rest due to post-concussion symptoms, leading to an emotional breakdown in the emergency room. Her genuine expressions and tearful performance conveyed the gravity of the situation.

Da-jung's heart-wrenching cries in front of her mother-in-law's death deeply moved viewers. She confessed that her mother-in-law had suggested going to the department store to buy clothes just before the accident, expressing guilt and lamenting, "I was crazy, why did I follow her there?" Kim Hee-jung's portrayal of Da-jung's complex emotions of affection and regret for her mother-in-law was palpable.

Da-jung's maternal love and warmth towards her family resonated with viewers. Her son Ji-hyuk (played by Jung Il-woo) visits her in the emergency room, embracing her with relief that she is alive. Da-jung, in turn, expresses concern for her husband Sang-chul (played by Chun Ho-jin), urging Ji-hyuk, "Take good care of your father."

In episode 38, aired on the 14th, Da-jung's role in witnessing the resolution of long-standing conflicts between her husband and son was highlighted. She overhears their reconciliation outside her mother-in-law's room and sheds tears, realizing the deep-seated issues in their relationship. She remarks, "Perhaps Grandma wanted us to reconcile as she left," leaving a poignant impression.

Da-jung's efforts to maintain her family's daily life amidst sorrow provided a subtle yet profound impact on viewers. She knocks on the door of her mother-in-law's room, closed for a long time, to make ramen, and shares a meal with her family, easing the atmosphere. The scene where she discusses the 'sandwich generation' with her husband, those who care for their parents but may not receive support from their children, struck a chord with many.

The show airs every Saturday and Sunday at 8 PM on KBS 2TV.

Reporter Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr