On March 14, 2025, Netflix premiered four new episodes of “When Life Gives You Tangerines,”a remarkable series featuring talents IU and Park Bo-gum. This enchanting drama ventures into the complexities of love and personal growth, set against the stunning backdrop of Jeju Island. The show intricately chronicles the profound journey of characters Ae-sun and Gwan-sik as they navigate love’s challenges amidst societal expectations.
Episodes 5 through 8 deepen the narrative, revealing new dimensions in Ae-sun and Gwan-sik’s relationship. The opening episode thrusts viewers into the societal pressures of 1950s Jeju, where Ae-sun grapples with traditional expectations. As the couple faces harsh economic realities, including Gwan-sik’s joblessness, Ae-sun’s desperation drives her to seek assistance from her uncle to support their family.
Episode 6 delivers a heartbreaking revelation: the tragic loss of their youngest son, Dong-myeong. This poignant episode underscores the heavy toll of parenthood, as Ae-sun and Gwan-sik find themselves unable to grieve fully while they persist in their efforts to provide for their surviving children.
The trajectory shifts in episodes 7 and 8, narrated through the eyes of Ae-sun’s daughter, Geum-myeong (also portrayed by IU). Geum-myeong reflects on the sacrifices her parents made, emphasizing the journeys of unfulfilled dreams and the love that propels them to ensure a brighter future for her.
A Closer Examination of Parental Sacrifice in Episodes 5 to 8
The latest episodes of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”meticulously explore the internal and external struggles faced by Ae-sun and Gwan-sik. Ae-sun’s evolution from a young mother to a prominent community leader reveals her extraordinary resilience and determination.
Gwan-sik’s unwavering support acts as a testament to their partnership’s strength, as the narrative weaves themes of love, loss, sacrifice, and empowerment that resonate with audiences of all ages. These episodes poignantly highlight the often-overlooked struggles parents endure for the sake of their children’s well-being.
A recurring theme emerges; children frequently overlook their parents’ hardships and, at times, harbor resentment for the life their parents may have sacrificed for them. This sobering reality invites viewers to reflect on the profound nature of parental love, which can often come at the expense of personal dreams.
Episode Breakdown
Episode 5: A Midsummer Night’s Full Net
The narrative begins with Ae-sun, played by IU, working in a bustling fish market while Gwan-sik searches for employment. Their struggle against starvation underlines the strength of their bond. Ae-sun’s grandmother generously shares her secret savings, empowering Ae-sun to purchase a boat—a pivotal moment that changes their fortunes. With the birth of their second son, Eun-myeong, new hope envelops the family, as Gwan-sik’s successful catches lead them closer to financial security.
Episode 6: Life Goes On and On
Tragedy strikes in this episode as the family faces the untimely death of young Dong-myeong during a devastating typhoon. The episode skillfully captures the family’s grief and emphasizes the delicate balance between mourning and responsibilities. Ae-sun and Gwan-sik’s shared pain fortifies their commitment to one another and their family.
Episode 7: A Fruitful Fall
In a significant leap forward to 1988, viewers witness Ae-sun’s transformation into a respected village leader, breaking gender stereotypes as Jeju’s first female village chief. Her campaign against Sung-il culminates in an inspiring victory, with Gwan-sik beaming with pride as her supportive spouse reiterates their enduring partnership throughout various trials.
Episode 8: The Moon Wanes, Yet The Young Heart Remains
This episode features poignant flashbacks, revealing the couple’s sacrifices for Geum-myeong’s aspirations. Although young Ae-sun dreamed of becoming a poet, reality led her down a different path. Ae-sun and Gwan-sik ensure that their daughter is afforded the opportunities they could not, even if it means selling their home to fund her education abroad.
Stay tuned for episodes 9 to 12, set to premiere on March 21, 2025.