Kim Eun-sook's 'The Glory' Takes the World by Storm, Breaks Records with Gripping Revenge Story. Kim asks to support the victims' 'reset'.

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The highly anticipated Netflix series 'The Glory' has become a global sensation, skyrocketing to the top of the worldwide top 10 list upon its release. The gripping storyline revolves around a woman seeking meticulously planned revenge for the childhood violence that shattered her soul.
Impressively, the show has amassed a staggering 413.05 million hours of viewing time, ranking it 6th among non-English Netflix TV shows. This remarkable achievement follows in the footsteps of other Korean hits like 'Squid Game' and 'All of Us Are Dead'.

Both Part 1 and Part 2 of 'The Glory' have made waves in the industry. Part 1 secured a place in the top 10 list for five consecutive weeks, while Part 2 has dominated the non-English category, maintaining the top spot for three weeks since its release on the 29th.

​Overwhelmed by the global acclaim, series writer Kim Eun-sook expressed her deep gratitude, stating, "No matter how many times I say thank you, it will never be enough, even if I say it until the end of my days. I'm ecstatic and grateful to the viewers in Korea and around the world!" borrowing a line from her own script to convey her appreciation to viewers worldwide.

Kim Eun-sook, the screenwriter of 'The Glory'. ©netflix

Last year, on December 30th, Part 1 of the series was aired, followed by the release of Part 2 on the 10th of this month. During the period between the two parts, writer Kim Eun-sook reflected on the uncertain journey of drama writers.

Sharing her thoughts on the experience, she humorously remarked, "If this were a broadcast on a traditional channel, I would have endured about 8 hours of anticipation until the ratings were revealed at 7 am the next morning after the initial airing. However, since it was released on an online video service (OTT) this time, I thought I could relax and enjoy. But guess what? A challenging period of over 100 days unfolded between Part 1 and Part 2. (laughs) It seems to be the destiny of screenwriters."

​When asked to highlight memorable lines and scenes, Kim Eun-sook responded, "There are countless lines I could choose from," and proceeded to select six notable scenes:

©netflix

1. The emotionally powerful scene at the police station, where the line "We have to go in. Even though it's been 18 years," was delivered with such exceptional acting by the police officer and Dong-eun, that it moved me to tears despite knowing the outcome.
2. The heart-wrenching scene featuring young Dong-eun and the villa owner from the past, where the line "Let's die in the spring" was delivered by Teacher Son Sook. It was a moment that resonated so deeply that I found myself crying alongside young Dong-eun.
3. The final scene of the last episode, where the profound line "I love you" was exchanged between Dong-eun and Yeo-jeong. This moment beautifully portrayed their desire to live together and became another expression of the overarching theme of 'I want to live.'
4. The remarkable scene depicting So-hee's possession and the subsequent exorcism. Every aspect of it was flawlessly executed, particularly Dong-eun's acting, where she conveyed So-hee's presence without uttering a single line of dialogue.
5. The scene where Yeo-jeong and Do-yeong play Go, which explored the concept of "reset" for the victims, as eloquently discussed by Yeo-jeong. This line encapsulated the core theme of 'The Glory,' and Lee Do-hyun brilliantly portrayed it, even through his breathing.
6. The funeral scene of Yeon-jin and Chief Shin, where Yeon-jin's acting left me stunned when she passionately declares, "That's enough!!! You'll fix it right?!!!" It was a truly powerful moment that left a lasting impact.

​In regard to the viewing experience of the series, it is highly recommended to watch it in its entirety, whether it be through binge-watching or at your own pace. However, please make sure to watch until the last episode to fully appreciate the 'reset' of the victims. Your support is greatly appreciated."

©netflix

Regarding the relationship and future of Dong-eun and Yeo-jeong, who have garnered widespread support, it was mentioned, "Dong-eun and Yeo-jeong's journey ultimately leads to revenge and destruction. In their pursuit of vengeance, they themselves become perpetrators and find themselves trapped in a cycle with no escape. Yet, together, Dong-eun and Yeo-jeong embrace their path to hell as if it were a journey to heaven. It is a love that can only be described as truly insane."

"As adult actors, we have had numerous opportunities to express our gratitude through videos and private messages. However, for this question, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the other actors involved. From the child actors who portrayed the adversaries of Dong-eun, such as Ye-sol, to the remarkable performance by Teacher Son Sook, and to all the mothers who appeared in the drama, as well as every other actor who filled each scene with their exceptional talent and dedication, I sincerely thank you."

​Lastly, Kim left a letter addressed to Dong-eun.

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To Dong-eun,
"My beloved Dong-eun, I know you have endured immense suffering and shed countless tears. There were likely moments when death seemed preferable. Yet, I am deeply grateful that you persevered and made it this far, one step at a time. I recognize the tremendous challenges you have faced, and I sincerely hope that every path you have traversed can serve as a 'map' for others. May you, in the future, blossom beautifully like the arrival of spring."

​Interview by Glenda Park, Editor-in-Chief at Avec G.
*This article is simultaneously published in Seoul Wire's 'Glenda Park's Blue Ocean'.

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