In Memoriam: Kang Myung-joo’s Heartfelt Farewell
Kang Myung-joo, beloved actress known for her role in the recent Netflix K-drama When Life Gives You Tangerines, tragically passed away on February 27, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 54. This poignant loss comes shortly before the show’s premiere on March 7, 2025, leaving fans and colleagues mourning that she did not have the opportunity to witness the fruits of her labor.
As the series garners acclaim both domestically and internationally, numerous fans have expressed their sorrow over Kang’s absence from this moment of recognition. Many see the show as a touching tribute to her legacy, one that captures her talent and vibrancy despite her untimely departure.
A Lasting Legacy in When Life Gives You Tangerines
One particular scene in the series has resonated deeply with its audience. It features Kang Myung-joo, portraying Park Yeong-bum, seated on a sofa as the camera circles her, illustrating the passage of time and evoking an emotional response from viewers. This creative choice, intended to depict time’s progression, has been interpreted as a profound gift to her family, giving them a glimpse of the actress as she ages, albeit through fiction.
Viewers reflected on this poignant moment, sharing their responses online:
“I see the transition scene as a beautiful homage for the late actress Kang Myung-joo.”
“I think this is a beautiful gift for her bereaved family. They get to see her grow old, even just through this,”said a fan on X
“We’re glad that one of your legacies is being part of WLGT. You did great, Ma’am,”added another fan
“This was beautiful to watch, especially knowing that she is no longer in this world. May she rest in peace,”commented a netizen
Community Grief and Celebration of Kang Myung-joo
As the news of her passing spread, heartfelt tributes poured in from fans recognizing her impactful performance in When Life Gives You Tangerines. Many expressed their sadness that Kang could not witness the show’s success, highlighting her exceptional contribution to the drama and the emotions it stirred in viewers.
“It’s unfortunate she wasn’t able to see the drama grow into a successful one with her incredible participation. Rest in peace, Kang Myung-joo,”stated a fan
“Rest in peace. Thank you for giving us exceptional acting that made us feel the sting in our hearts while watching Yeong-beom and Geum-myeong,”added a X user
“You have left us an amazing performance of a lifetime. Thank you, Actress #KangMyungJoo,”said a netizen
“One impactful element is how they aged her up in several scenes for this drama; her family will cherish that part forever,”commented another X user
Exploring the Plot of When Life Gives You Tangerines
When Life Gives You Tangerines is a South Korean television series that premiered on Netflix on March 7, 2025. The slice-of-life narrative features a prominent cast, including IU, Park Bo-gum, Moon So-ri, and Park Hae-joon. The series concluded on March 28, offering viewers all 16 episodes to binge-watch.
The storyline follows two childhood friends, Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, who grow up on the picturesque shores of Jeju. As the spirited and ambitious Ae-sun dreams of becoming a poet, the diligent Gwan-sik supports her journey, leading them both on a path of friendship that blossoms into love. As Ae-sun seeks a broader horizon in Busan, Gwan-sik joins her, and their poignant story unfolds, highlighting themes of aspiration and partnership in life.
All episodes of When Life Gives You Tangerines are available for streaming on Netflix, allowing audiences to experience Kang Myung-joo’s final artistry.