Kim Hee-sun Shines as a 'Mom-Forty' Representative in 'No Second Chances,' Resonating Deeply with Viewers

Actress Kim Hee-sun has returned to the small screen as Jo Na-jung, a 'mom-forty' protagonist, in the TV CHOSUN mini-series 'No Second Chances.' The drama vividly portrays the realities of motherhood in one's forties, daily life as a housewife, and the challenges faced by women re-entering the workforce after a career break, capturing viewers' hearts from its premiere.

In the first episode, aired on November 10th, Kim Hee-sun authentically and humorously depicted Jo Na-jung, a former successful home shopping host who is now a mother of two. Na-jung's life as a 'career-break mom' was portrayed with genuine emotion.

Her birthday, at age 41, was a chaotic start. Her husband, who promised to help with the children, had to go to work, leaving her to manage their two sons. Even after finally reaching the restaurant, her struggles continued without a moment's rest. The scene where she kicks off her high heels and slips into comfortable slippers resonated deeply with viewers, reflecting the weariness of many housewives.

The day ended on a poignant note. An awkward encounter with a former colleague and the need to quickly leave due to judgmental eyes added to her discomfort. The pivotal moment came with her husband's birthday gift: a designer apron. His clueless remark, "I thought you didn't like getting water on yourself when you do dishes," prompted Na-jung to break down in tears. Her simple plea, "Do you think I *like* doing dishes? I want to work again," encapsulated years of suppressed longing and the sacrifices made for her family.

In this role, Kim Hee-sun chose authenticity over glamour. Her expressions and dialogue conveyed a depth of lived experience and emotion. From a forced smile while appeasing her children to a playful wink after winning a race against a rival tenant, and her composed demeanor facing an old classmate who is now her landlord, her diverse facial expressions were masterful. Every detail aligned with the emotions of the 'mom-forty generation,' evoking immense empathy. Kim Hee-sun delicately portrayed Na-jung's complex feelings of hiding her true self for her family, completing a profound emotional arc. With a strengthened gaze, Kim Hee-sun proved her choice was right by embodying her own life experiences on screen.

'No Second Chances' airs every Monday and Tuesday at 10 PM on TV CHOSUN and is also available for streaming on Netflix. The second episode airs on November 11th.

Following the broadcast, online communities and social media buzzed with comments like "Kim Hee-sun's acting is insane," "I thought this was about me. Totally relatable," and "Na-jung, let's be happy in *this* life, not the next life ㅠㅠ." Many viewers expressed deep empathy for Kim Hee-sun's realistic portrayal, raising anticipation for the upcoming episodes.