Yeom Hye Ran’s poignant performance in ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ has left a lasting impression, evoking deep emotions as she portrays the struggles of motherhood.

The Netflix original series, which premiered on March 7th, tells the life journey of the bold and rebellious Ae Soon (IU) and the steadfast Gwan Sik (Park Bo Gum) through the four seasons. Following the release of its first act (Episodes 1–4), the series quickly climbed to the No. 1 spot on Netflix Korea’s TOP 10 series list, garnering widespread attention both domestically and internationally.

In the drama, Yeom Hye Ran plays Jeon Gwang Rye, Ae Soon’s mother. Gwang Rye’s life has been defined by burdens—caring for a sick husband, dealing with debt-ridden parents, and enduring a wayward second husband. To her, Ae Soon is both a cherished daughter and a source of pain, an “aching thorn in her chest.” As she watches her daughter dream big and grow strong on the island, the complex emotions of a mother—both pride and sorrow—are brought to life through Yeom Hye Ran’s powerful portrayal.

With Yeom Hye Ran’s deeply moving performance drawing tears from viewers, ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ will continue its journey with Episodes 5–8, set to premiere exclusively on Netflix on March 14th.

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