TV Chosun's emotional family and love stories
Emotional Journeys and Family Bonds During Lunar New Year
During the Lunar New Year holiday, many people return home to reunite with their families. TV Chosun’s variety shows offer a unique perspective on this time of year, highlighting the emotional stories of love, family, and reconciliation. Two special programs, ‘Joseon’s Lover’ and ‘Dad and Me Season 3’, explore these themes in different ways, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of a family.
A Love Story Through Dementia
The Lunar New Year special ‘Joseon’s Lover’, which airs at 10 p.m. on the 16th, focuses on the real-life story of singer Taejin-ah and his wife, Ok-kyeong-i, who has been battling dementia for seven years. Taejin-ah, known for his dedication to his wife, continues to support her despite the challenges posed by her condition. As her muscle strength weakens and her speech becomes unclear, he faces the difficult reality of her severe dementia diagnosis. However, he clings to hope, saying, "Sometimes she recognizes me."
To help awaken her memories, Taejin-ah begins reminiscence therapy, as suggested by his doctor. This leads him to visit the U.S., where he accompanies his brother-in-law to his mother-in-law’s grave and reconnects with old friends. He also recalls the days when he sold goods in Times Square, singing songs like ‘Ok-kyeong-i’, ‘We’ll Live Well’, and ‘Yellow Handkerchief’.
‘Joseon’s Lover’ is a hyper-realistic documentary variety show that captures the lives of entertainment industry couples, including their dating, marriage, and parenting experiences. The production team stated, "In the new season, we will showcase a wider range of ages, values, and forms of love," adding, "We will expand with new structures and ideas while maintaining unadorned reality."
Reconnecting with Family
The Lunar New Year special of the family observation variety show ‘Dad and Me’, airing on the 18th, delves into the complex relationship between parents and children. One of the featured stories is about Lim Hyung-joo, the ‘popera legend’, who takes his first step into public office by being appointed as the inaugural chairman of the Yongsan Cultural Foundation. The burden and pride from this title, along with the regret of his mother’s absence at past celebrations, create a mix of emotions.
In one scene, the son engages in self-promotion while shopping at the market, and although the mother responds brusquely, her subtle pride is evident. The son’s childlike concern about where to place his chairman appointment certificate among the household awards brings laughter, but beneath it lies a desire for recognition.
A Cross-Generational Snapshot
Another story features first-generation musical actor Jeon Soo-kyeong and her 97-year-old veteran father. The father, who styles himself with self-dyeing and a haircut, visits the office of the 6·25 War Veterans Association, showing off his vitality by arm-wrestling with comrades. However, as bitter tales of the war and the 'irregular forces' who participated without military serial numbers unfold, the atmosphere becomes solemn.
Jeon Soo-kyeong reflects on her family’s time, overlaying her life with the years of her father and his comrades. A day filled with laughter, tears, bravado, and regret remains a cross-generational snapshot of family history.
MC Jun Hyun-moo said, "(After filming ‘Dad and Me’), I always think more deeply about my parents," adding, "I hope this Lunar New Year becomes a holiday where at least a phone call is made." Han Hye-jin also conveyed, "I strive to understand my child and parents more."
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