Go Younjung Delivers a Heart-Wrenching Performance in ‘Resident Playbook’

South Korean actress Go Younjung has once again proven her exceptional acting prowess with her touching portrayal of Oh I-young in the tvN weekend drama Resident Playbook. Her detailed and heartfelt performance has not only captivated viewers but also stirred deep emotions.

In the recently aired episode 5 on May 26, Oh I-young comforts a 10-year-old child who is left alone after the sudden death of their mother due to a pulmonary embolism, despite initially finding new hope during cancer treatments. Through practical advice about navigating life after loss, Oh I-young offers sincere yet realistic support, showcasing her deep empathy and emotional strength.

Go Younjung’s delicate acting shines as she tightly holds the child’s hand and shares heartfelt advice like “You’ll forget your mom’s scent faster than you think” and “Make sure you eat well and study hard.” Her portrayal adds emotional depth to the character, making Oh I-young come alive with poignant authenticity.

The climax of the episode reveals a deeper layer of Oh I-young’s painful past as she appears to hear her mother’s voice from the afterlife, opening an emotional void that resonated powerfully with viewers. Go Younjung’s raw depiction of grief — collapsing on the living room floor overwhelmed by her mother’s absence — left audiences in tears and solidified support for her character’s journey.

Despite sometimes appearing immature or emotionally detached, Go Younjung masterfully portrays Oh I-young as a character carrying invisible wounds, striving to endure. Her nuanced approach builds a three-dimensional character that continues to grow in depth and complexity.

Resident Playbook airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:20 PM (KST) on tvN.