Ryu Seung-ryong once again proves his mastery of everyday realism, portraying the intricate emotions of a corporate manager in "The Story of Manager Kim Who Works at a Big Company and Owns a House in Seoul" (JTBC, written by Kim Hong-gi, directed by Cho Hyun-tak). He plays Kim Nak-soo, the head of Sales Team 1, delivering a performance that feels both authentic and deeply relatable.

A Portrait of Ordinary Struggles

As a long-time employee and father, Kim Nak-soo's life appears stable — a steady job, a home in Seoul, a child in college. Yet, behind that façade lies a quiet loneliness and endless desire for more. "Surviving 25 years in a conglomerate, buying an apartment in Seoul, and sending my kid to college — that's a great life," he says, embodying the bittersweet pride of a generation.

Realism That Hits Home

Ryu captures life's contradictions with precision. From shutting down his rebellious son with "Just go to the army" to boasting "I won" after buying a pricier bag than his junior, his character's flawed humanity feels painfully real. Every gesture — from strict office rules to subtle facial expressions — adds weight and depth to the story.

Ryu Seung-ryong's detailed and grounded acting continues to earn acclaim. "Manager Kim" airs Episode 3 on November 1 at 10:40 PM KST on JTBC.