Heavenly Ever After: A Deep Dive into Episodes 1 and 2
On April 19 and 20, the much-anticipated episodes 1 and 2 of Heavenly Ever After debuted on Netflix. This K-drama delves into profound themes including love, identity, and the concept of aging in the afterlife, exemplified by the striking 50-year age gap between its main characters, Lee Hae-suk and her husband, Ko Nak-jun.
In a poignant narrative choice, Nak-jun, who has passed away, presents himself as a 30-year-old in heaven, while Hae-suk retains her elderly visage, reflecting a moment from his past where he once claimed she was most beautiful in her later years.
Episode Overview: The Intriguing Opening
The series opens with the unexpected arrival of two loan collectors at Hae-suk’s doorstep. Portrayed by Kim Hye-ja, Hae-suk cleverly claims to be the mother of the borrower, Jang Gi-hwan, managing to fend them off using psychological tricks. However, the plot twist reveals that Hae-suk herself is a loan shark, scheming to collect money from Gi-hwan.
Inside, she awakens Gi-hwan with aggression, aided by her assistant, Lee Yeong-ae, played by Lee Jung-eun. Hae-suk employs intimidation tactics with knives, compelling Gi-hwan to comply and hand over the owed amount.
Understanding Hae-suk’s Choices: A Life of Debt Collection
As Heavenly Ever After progresses, viewers witness Hae-suk and Yeong-ae navigating the local market, encountering former borrowers from whom Hae-suk previously reclaimed debts. Upon returning home, she informs her husband, the older Ko Nak-jun (played by Park Woong), about her plans to prepare a meal for him, highlighting her unwavering dedication despite the tragic circumstances of Nak-jun’s paralysis from an accident in his youth.
During a visit to collect debts, Hae-suk ventures to a funeral, a scenario rife with emotional tension. Despite Yeong-ae’s reservations about collecting debt at such a sensitive time, Hae-suk recounts her own struggle, revealing that her insurance payout after her husband’s accident fueled her transition into a lender. In a powerful exchange, Hae-suk approaches a mourning widow, who angrily dismisses her despite her offer of condolences.
As Hae-suk travels home on the metro with Yeong-ae, she contemplates the existence of heaven and hell. In a tender yet revealing moment, Yeong-ae reassures Hae-suk, marking the complexity of their relationship built on the foundation of past sacrifices.
Exploring Grief and Loss in Episode 1
Following Nak-jun’s passing, Hae-suk grapples with her grief by neglecting her medication and continuing her work. The narrative beautifully intertwines her past moments of nurturing Yeong-ae with her current struggles. The episode culminates in Hae-suk’s own death after a year of mourning, leading to a solemn funeral attended only by Yeong-ae. In a surreal turn of events, as Hae-suk’s spirit prepares for the afterlife, she chooses to board a subway ride, illustrating her complex emotions and experiences.
Entering the Afterlife: Hae-suk and Nak-jun Reunite
As episode 2 begins, viewers encounter 80-year-old Hae-suk reuniting with her youthful husband, Nak-jun (now portrayed by Son Suk-ku), in the afterlife. Their emotional reunion plays out tenderly as Nak-jun discovers the ability to walk again and shares playful, carefree moments with Hae-suk—cherishing what he missed during his earthly existence.
However, amid the joy, Hae-suk’s insecurities surface as she struggles with her appearance. This inner conflict is poignantly portrayed when she witnesses a young couple, triggering feelings of loneliness. Despite their rich history, the couple finds themselves navigating the complexities of age and identity in the afterlife.
An Exploration of Nak-jun’s Life and Hae-suk’s Identity
Subsequently, Nak-jun invites Hae-suk to his new workplace within the heavenly realm, where she learns of the afterlife’s regulations and nuances in a service center designed for managing afterlife affairs. The humor interspersed with profound themes creates an engaging viewing experience.
After a light-hearted yet meaningful meal date, Hae-suk grapples with encounters from her past, evoking her deep commitment to those she cared for. As she sleeps beside Nak-jun, the shadows of her unresolved ties to Earth—specifically concerning Yeong-ae—linger, illustrated through flashbacks showcasing their bond.
What Lies Ahead: Possible Developments and Speculation
The conclusion of episode 2 leaves viewers at a suspenseful crossroads with Yeong-ae’s potential fate and Hae-suk’s unsettling discoveries in the afterlife. The appearance of a mysterious woman who hugs Nak-jun teases complexities yet to unfold. The juxtaposition of emotional depth and comedic mischief continues to engage audiences, showcasing the brilliance of Heavenly Ever After.
Catch new episodes of Heavenly Ever After streaming every Saturday and Sunday on Netflix, with its original broadcast airing on JTBC in South Korea at 10:30 PM (KST).