Ryu Seung-ryong of 'The Dream Life of Mr. Kim': Lost His Seoul Apartment, But Family Bonds Grew Stronger... 'Hope This Work Reminds Us of What Truly Matters'

[The Financial News] For office workers, retirement is an inevitable reality. Many say the world outside the company is even more competitive. Mr. Kim, who worked for a major corporation and owned an apartment in Seoul, was no exception.
Based on the webtoon of the same name, the JTBC weekend drama 'The Dream Life of Mr. Kim' (directed by Jo Hyun-tak, written by Kim Hong-ki) aired its final episode on the 30th.
After his dream of being promoted to executive was dashed, Mr. Kim was demoted and eventually took voluntary retirement. He lost his severance pay and assets to a real estate scam. Hitting rock bottom, he accepted his new reality and began the second act of his life. Although his economic and social status declined, he found warmth in his life. By his side were his unwaveringly supportive wife and his dependable son. Notably, even though the Seoul apartment—essentially the fruit of Mr. Kim’s 25-year career—was lost to pay off debts, the family’s relationships grew even stronger.
Lead actors Ryu Seung-ryong and Myung Se-bin shared their thoughts on the series’ conclusion on the 1st.
Ryu Seung-ryong expressed his gratitude for viewers’ warm and thoughtful responses, saying, "Each and every one of your heartfelt reactions gave me great strength." He added, "I hope Mr. Kim’s story gives everyone a chance to reflect on what is truly valuable in life." He continued, "While striving for and achieving finite goals is important, I hope you also consider the wisdom of preparing for the next stage with a warm heart." He emphasized, "It is also meaningful to take a moment to appreciate the precious people around us—family, colleagues, and friends."
Myung Se-bin portrayed Ha-jin, Mr. Kim’s wife, a character with wisdom and a generous heart. She said, "Although Ha-jin has some fantastical qualities, playing a character who cares for her family and bravely starts anew in the face of crisis taught me a lot." She continued, "I am grateful to have worked with such wonderful actors as director Jo Hyun-tak, Ryu Seung-ryong, and Cha Kang-yoon." She concluded, "I hope viewers draw strength from Ha-jin’s character, and thank you for loving the drama."

jashin@fnnews.com Shin Jin-ah Reporter