Kim HeeSun Wows With Emotional Acting in ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’

A Working Mom’s Crisis Unfolds

Actress Kim HeeSun is earning widespread praise for her deeply moving emotional acting in the latest episode of the TV CHOSUN drama, “Don’t Call Me Ma’am.” In the 7th episode, which aired on December 1, 2025, Kim HeeSun, who plays the working mom Jo Najung, delivered a performance that resonated with many viewers by realistically portraying the complexities of family dynamics and personal sacrifice. The episode delved into a heart-wrenching family drama that many modern families can relate to, highlighting the silent struggles often faced by working women.

The Breaking Point: Childcare and Family Conflict

The episode’s central conflict began when Jo Najung’s caregiver suddenly quit, throwing her life into chaos. Her mother, Ahn Sunim (portrayed by veteran actress Cha MiKyung), offers to step in and help. However, Najung is hesitant to accept, knowing her mother is already burdened with caring for her brother’s children. This initial dilemma sets the stage for a major confrontation, exploring the heavy reliance on grandmothers for “twilight childcare.”

The Burden of a Grandmother’s Love

The family tension reaches its peak when Ahn Sunim, exhausted from her duties, finally declares she can no longer provide childcare. Instead of showing understanding, Najung’s brother and his wife shift the blame onto their mother, treating her as the source of the problem. This moment powerfully illustrates the often-unspoken pressures placed upon the older generation in a raw and realistic family drama.

Kim HeeSun’s Explosive Emotional Acting

Witnessing the unfair treatment of her mother, Najung’s pent-up emotions of guilt, anger, and love erupt in a powerful outburst. Kim HeeSun’s performance in this scene has been lauded as a masterclass in emotional acting. She passionately defends her mother, revealing the shocking truth that Ahn Sunim had been paid a mere 500,000 KRW for six long years of dedicated childcare. The argument escalates into a physical fight between the siblings, a culmination of years of unspoken resentment. The raw emotion and convincing acting from Kim HeeSun made the scene exceptionally impactful, capturing the character’s profound pain and fierce loyalty.

A Daughter’s Guilt and Gratitude

Following the explosive fight, the episode shifts to a more reflective tone. Overcome with remorse for taking her mother for granted and gratitude for her endless sacrifices, Najung gifts her mother a travel package. This act serves as a heartfelt apology and an acknowledgment of her mother as an individual with her own life and desires. This new Kim HeeSun drama expertly navigates the complex feelings that define a mother-daughter relationship, particularly under the strain of modern life.

Reflecting on the Sacrifices of Women

The episode concludes with a poignant narration from Najung. She reflects on the reality that the careers of many working mothers are built upon the sacrifices of other women—be it their own mothers, mothers-in-law, or caregivers. This powerful message underscores the central theme of the drama, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and solidifying the episode as a significant exploration of the challenges faced by women in contemporary society.

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