The Divorce Insurance: When a Kiss Fails, Emotions Ignite in Episode 8

In episode 8 of tvN’s hit Monday–Tuesday drama The Divorce Insurance, the sparks between Noh Ki-joon (played by Lee Dong-wook) and Kang Han-deul (played by Lee Joo-bin) continue to build, even as a missed kiss leaves fans longing for more.

The June 22 broadcast showed subtle shifts in feelings between separated individuals and those newly bonding. Jeon Na-rae (played by Lee Da-hee) came to the realization that her lingering emotions for Noh Ki-joon were simply a mix of stubbornness and nostalgia. With her feelings resolved, she began opening her heart to Ahn Jeon-man (played by Lee Kwang-soo), sparking excitement for this newfound dynamic.

When an ill-timed text alert interrupted a near-kiss between Noh Ki-joon and Kang Han-deul, the mood faltered. But as Noh returned home, a chance encounter with Jeon Na-rae pushed several emotional boundaries. Drawing on the metaphor of minimizing margin of error in relationships, Noh acknowledged that while he and Jeon Na-rae might not be a perfect match, he was steadily reducing the disparity between himself and Kang Han-deul. Symbolically, Jeon Na-rae referred to her ‘green light’ feelings as being ‘sold out,’ metaphorically marking the end of a chapter.

The episode also captured Ahn Jeon-man visiting Noh’s home where Kang Han-deul was staying. With warmth and acceptance, Ahn’s support shed light on Noh’s complexities—his kindness tempered by cautious emotional investment. His words signaled his understanding of—and approval for—Han-deul’s growing presence in Noh’s life.

In perhaps the sweetest exchange, Kang Han-deul confessed wanting to be closer to ‘four than three’ with Noh Ki-joon—and Noh reciprocated. ‘I agree. It’s time to minimize the margin of error,’ he said. ‘I need to gather more data—about you.’ Romantic yet scientific, the statement captured the show’s signature tone.

As this budding romance took shape, another progressed: Jeon Na-rae explained to Ahn Jeon-man that leftover emotions for her ex weren’t regret but mere pride. Ahn’s response—tender and optimistic—hinted at deeper feelings between the two.

The episode also dove deep into the heartbreaking case of Woo Sun-hee and Park Young-kyu. Woo decided to divorce not out of resentment, but to avoid being a burden as her dementia progressed. Kang Han-deul reacted emotionally when told to deliver insurance funds to Park post-divorce: ‘If you’re no longer married, you’re no longer family. And yet, this is out of love.’

Meanwhile, Noh Ki-joon and Ahn Jeon-man uncovered an unexpected truth while tailing Park. He had been trying to find a sewing machine Woo once sold to support him—and his notebook was filled with ways to care for her. The Divorce Insurance TF Team stepped in once again to help the elderly couple move to a home more suitable for her condition, highlighting the show’s emotional depth.

Just as the TF Team succeeded in resolving one family crisis, they were blindsided by another: Jeon Na-rae arrived at a team dinner and announced, ‘As of today, the TF Team is disbanded.’ Her shocking statement leaves viewers questioning what lies ahead for the characters and the future of the Divorce Insurance project.

The Divorce Insurance airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:50 PM KST on tvN.