Actors Kim Tae-ri and Shin Ye-eun continue to draw viewers with diverging fates and soaring ratings. tvN's "Jungnyeon" (written by Choi Hyo-bi, directed by Jung Ji-in) aired its 6th episode on the 27th, achieving record-high ratings across all viewership metrics. It scored 13.4% nationwide, peaking at 14.8% (according to Nielsen Korea), ranking first across all channels, including public broadcasters, for its time slot.
In this episode, both Jungnyeon (played by Kim Tae-ri) and Youngseo (played by Shin Ye-eun) faced different trials. Youngseo, who plays the role of 'Go Mi-girl,' struggled to harmonize with her partner Juran (played by Woo Da-bi) on stage. She received stern criticism from Sobok (played by Ra Mi-ran) for neglecting her chemistry with her partner in pursuit of perfecting her character. Youngseo refused Juran’s offer to practice together.
On the other hand, Jungnyeon, who took on the role of 'Soldier 1,' often felt sidelined. Determined to find her unique soldier persona to show the audience, she consoled herself.
Youngseo's turning point came when she secretly witnessed Juran practicing lines behind the rehearsal room door, prompting her to open up and begin joint practice. They shared interpretations of the play, allowing Youngseo to discover her unique 'Go Mi-girl.'
Jungnyeon studied the 'Soldier 1' character on her own. She donned a boy’s school uniform and volunteered at a canteen for soldiers who fought in the Korean War, reminding her of her father whom she lost during the war.
As the performance day of "Jamyeonggo" approached, the Maeran Gugak Troupe delivered a stage befitting their reputation. Okkyung (played by Jung Eun-chae) and Hyerang (played by Kim Yun-hye) dominated the stage with charisma as protagonists.
Youngseo and Juran created intense synergy with their duet performance. Observing from behind, Jungnyeon felt an inexplicable bitterness. Inspired by Youngseo's performance, she delivered an impromptu fiery performance.
However, Sobok added tension by warning, "Stop trying to act well. Don’t be mistaken. Today’s audience didn’t come to see you. If you stand out, you'll disrupt the flow."
At the play's climax, Jungnyeon ended up causing a major incident. In the crucial scene where 'Soldier 1' must urgently alert of enemy invasion, she spotted Korean War veterans in the audience. Overwhelmed by the moment, she screamed on stage, passionately singing 'The Soldier’s Sorrow' from the Jeokbyeokga, as if pouring out deep resentment. She momentarily became the star of the show despite Sobok’s admonition not to stand out. How will "Jamyeonggo" draw its final curtain?
"Jungnyeon" depicts the growth story of 'Jungnyeon,' a genius of traditional Korean music, aspiring to become the best traditional opera actress in post-Korean War 1950s. With captivating performances and the charm of traditional opera, the show continues to break its viewership records every episode.
<Photo Credit=tvN>
