The Actress Who Moved the World, Even Impressing IU and Park Bo-gum

Yeom Hye-ran’s portrayal in 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' has left a profound impact on viewers, evoking memories of mothers everywhere and bringing audiences to tears.

Premiering on the 7th, 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' is a Netflix series that unfolds the adventurous life of Aesun (played by IU), a spirited rebel born in Jeju, and Gwan-sik (played by Park Bo-gum), a devoted and steadfast soul, told across the four seasons. Immediately after the release of its first act (Episodes 1-4), the series soared to No. 1 on Netflix Korea’s TOP 10 series ranking, gaining both domestic and international attention. In the drama, Yeom Hye-ran plays Jeon Gwang-rye, Aesun’s mother, whose struggles and sacrifices encapsulate the weight of motherhood.

A Fierce and Unwavering Mother

Yeom Hye-ran’s Gwang-rye is strong and unyielding, a mother whose resilience shines both on land and in water, her piercing gaze filled with unwavering determination. She holds her breath underwater to provide for her children, a pillar of strength who shoulders the family’s burdens. Yet, when she looks at Aesun, her tough exterior melts like snow under the spring sun, revealing a warmth only a mother can give. Yeom Hye-ran’s performance radiates this maternal warmth, embodying a mother not just to Aesun but to generations of viewers. Her presence on screen stirs deep emotions, reminding audiences of their own mothers and drawing tears with every scene.

A Character That Stays With You

From the very first episode, Yeom Hye-ran anchors the drama with her powerful performance, immersing viewers into Gwang-rye’s world and making them feel her profound love for Aesun. Her portrayal sparks intergenerational empathy, reminding audiences of the boundless love they have received from their own mothers. Her poignant delivery of the line “Even if all the parents in the world die, their children continue to live” lingers in the air, echoing the lifelong ache of missing a mother. Just as Gwang-rye’s face remains etched in Aesun’s memory, Yeom Hye-ran’s portrayal leaves an unforgettable mark on viewers, further cementing her status as a powerhouse actress.

More to Come in Act 2

'When Life Gives You Tangerines' features a star-studded cast and a deeply moving story, living up to its Jeju dialect-inspired title, which translates to “You’ve worked so hard” in English. With its stellar performances and emotional depth, anticipation is high for the second act. Episodes 5-8 will be released on Netflix on the 14th, continuing the journey of Aesun and Gwang-rye in what promises to be another breathtaking chapter.