KBS 2TV’s new weekend drama Our Golden Days is set to usher in a wave of warmth, nostalgia, and deeply human storytelling as it marks the grand conclusion of writer So Hyun-kyung’s much-loved “Father Trilogy.”
Known for penning the iconic family hits My Daughter Seo-young and My Golden Life, So Hyun-kyung is widely credited with revitalizing the golden age of KBS weekend dramas. Now, with Our Golden Days, she delivers a final, emotionally resonant chapter—one that seeks to reflect on family, growth, and generational bonds.
The trilogy comes full circle with the return of veteran actor Cheon Ho Jin, who previously played pivotal father figures in So’s earlier works. Taking on yet another father role, Cheon anchors this final installment with his signature emotional depth, bringing to life a character who mirrors the struggles and love of many real-life fathers.
“This time, it’s not just about fathers and daughters,” Cheon shared during the production press conference at The Saint in Sindorim, Yeongdeungpo-gu. “It’s about fathers and sons—specifically, the complex relationship with my eldest son, who’s so much like me that we constantly butt heads.”
Cheon Ho-jin plays Lee Sang-cheol, a retired manager from a textile company and father to Ji-hyeok (Jung Il Woo), Ji-wan (Son Sang Yeon), and Subin (Shin Soo Hyun). As the family navigates daily struggles and evolving relationships, Splendid Days paints a rich portrait of life’s shared moments—joyful, painful, and everything in between.
Director Kim Hyung-seok expressed his confidence in the series, noting that while many dramas chase trends with flashy concepts and plot twists, Our Golden Days is committed to sincerity. “In today’s landscape of endless variations, we’re going back to the basics—telling a genuine story that’s rooted in warmth, tears, and deep human emotions,” he said.
The drama, co-produced by Studio Coming Soon, Studio Bom, and Monster Union, explores “the splendid days everyone encounters—whether in the past, present, or future,” aiming to create a sense of connection across generations. It’s this timeless quality that raises expectations, especially with So’s track record of pulling in viewership ratings topping 40%.
Director Kim also recounted how So Hyun-kyung suggested bringing Cheon Ho-jin back to complete the trilogy. “When she asked, I immediately agreed. Cheon brings a unique tone and gravitas to the role of a father that’s unlike any other,” he said. “We hope this work becomes the definitive conclusion to her ‘Father Trilogy’—and also sparks conversations about generational tension, such as the clash between the ‘880,000 won generation’ and older, more traditional mindsets.”
The series marks a major return for Jung Il Woo, who plays Ji-hyeok—the eldest son struggling to break free from his father’s shadow. Making his comeback to KBS after 16 years, and his first drama in three years, Jung expressed both gratitude and determination.
“Rather than feeling pressure, I’m just thankful. I hope to carry forward the success of my past projects,” he said. “I first met writer So Hyun-kyung through 49 Days. To be reunited with her through Our Golden Days feels incredibly meaningful, and I’ll give this role everything I have.”
Joining him is Jung In Sun as Ji Eun-oh, a charming and idealistic café manager and interior designer. Her character has long harbored feelings for Ji-hyeok since their university days, and now brings both heart and humor to the storyline. “Eun-oh is a bubbly and confident woman who charges toward love and dreams. She’s a classic candy character—but I want to play her with depth, as if this might be the role of a lifetime,” Jung said.
Yoon Hyun Min rounds out the trio of leads as Park Sung-jae, a third-generation chaebol and Ji-hyeok’s best friend who also happens to be Eun-oh’s uncle-in-law. Reflecting on working with Cheon Ho-jin, Yoon said, “I’ll never forget the moment he won the grand prize at the 2017 KBS Drama Awards. Acting alongside him now is such a personal honor. I’ll approach this role with all the sincerity I have.”
The ensemble cast also features Son Sang Yeon, Shin Soo Hyun, Yang Hyuk, Lee Tae Ran, and Park Jung Yeon, adding depth and vibrancy to the story. Notably, Lee Tae-ran makes a long-awaited return to the KBS weekend slot for the first time in 12 years since The King’s Family. Reflecting on past successes like Seven Princesses and The King’s Family, which each reached nearly 50% ratings, she remarked, “Maybe we’ll hit 30% this time. Either way, I’m excited—and I hope this role helps expand my range as an actress.”
As the successor to For Eagle Brothers, Splendid Days will premiere on August 9th at 8 PM, ready to offer viewers a story filled with familial love, meaningful conflicts, and, most of all, heart.
Featuring an all-star cast, a seasoned director, and the writing of So Hyun-kyung at its helm, Splendid Days looks poised to touch hearts and stir conversations—bringing a poignant close to a trilogy that has redefined the modern Korean family drama.
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