The Fierce Women of ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ Reunite with Laughter and Tears

The powerhouse trio whose performances captivated audiences in the global hit drama ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’—Kang Mal Geum, Kim Geum Soon, and Oh Min Ae—are reuniting for an emotionally charged and laughter-filled episode of ENA’s talk show ‘Missed You with Choi Hwa Jung and Kim Ho Young’, airing on the 25th.

The show’s host and self-proclaimed superfan Choi Hwa Jung could hardly contain her admiration for the cast, exclaiming that their appearance felt “just like a fan meeting.” Fans can look forward to a treasure trove of stories, including unrevealed behind-the-scenes moments and drama reenactments that will both warm the heart and tickle the funny bone.

Among the highlights is the revealing of the casting process. Kim Geum Soon, who left a strong impression as Jenny’s mother, recounts the spontaneity of her audition, noting, “Not a single script was given in advance. I had to improvise scene after scene on set.” Oh Min Ae shared that she’s taken on nearly every middle-aged female role imaginable—from mother-in-law to sea diver trio member—bringing both humor and admiration for her range.

In contrast, Kang Mal Geum, known for her award-winning performances, was cast without an audition. “As soon as the script for ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ came in, I immediately agreed. I just knew it would be a hit,” she said, showcasing her instinctive connection with the series.

The actresses also opened up about their personal journeys. Kim Geum Soon, who ran an academy business in Brazil for 10 years, revealed she faced family struggles that nearly derailed her acting career. Similarly, Oh Min Ae shared her early hardships, recalling how she dropped out of high school to support her family—an experience that unexpectedly led her to acting.

Kang Mal Geum also spoke about a turning point in her career, describing the transformative support she received from veteran actress Youn Yuh Jung during their time on ‘Lucky Chan-sil’. “I was trembling during the script reading. She gave me three pieces of advice that still guide me on set,” she said, underlining the lasting impact of mentorship in the industry.

With insightful anecdotes and heartfelt stories, the reunion of these remarkable women offers viewers a deeper appreciation for the stars of ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’, both on and off the screen.