Kim Yeon-koung's 'Rough Diamond' In-kushi Shines as Ace in Season Finale

Kim Yeon-koung's 'hidden gem,' In-kushi, has blossomed into a shining ace, as seen in the finale of MBC's 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung'.

The final episode, aired on the 23rd, featured the ultimate match between Director Kim Yeon-koung's team, the Wonder Dogs, and her former professional team, the Pink Spiders.

Having secured their survival with a 4-win, 2-loss record prior to the match, the Wonder Dogs faced a formidable opponent in the Pink Spiders, the undisputed champions of the regular season. To cap off the season with a bang, fans filled the stadium, and SEVENTEEN's Boo Seungkwan, as manager 'Boo Manager', cheered on his agency juniors, the group TWS, who electrified the atmosphere with a performance of their hit song 'First Meeting, Not as Planned'.

Facing her former team, a powerhouse reinforced with national team veterans like Jung Yoon-ju (a former teammate of Kim Yeon-koung), Director Kim Yeon-koung remained focused. The Wonder Dogs' starting lineup included Lee Na-young, Pyo Seung-ju, Moon Myung-hwa, Han Song-hee, In-kushi, Kim Hyun-jung, and Gu Hye-in.

Although the Wonder Dogs conceded the first point, captain Pyo Seung-ju's precise serves and the Pink Spiders' service errors helped turn the tide. Notably, rookie In-kushi, whom Director Kim Yeon-koung had previously referred to as a 'rough diamond,' delivered a standout performance. Creating opportunities with well-prepared blocking strategies and executing tactical plays flawlessly, In-kushi lived up to the nickname 'Nepkushi' and proved her potential as an ace.

Alongside In-kushi, the Wonder Dogs showcased remarkable concentration in serves, spikes, and blocks, widening the score gap. Watching her team's impressive growth, Director Kim Yeon-koung exclaimed "Hey!" before breaking into a proud smile, clearly moved by their performance.

Netizens expressed excitement, commenting, 'In-kushi finally broke through! Director Kim Yeon-koung must be so proud,' 'Ace Nepkushi recognized! Looking forward to next season,' and 'Great job to the director and players! Truly touching.'