Kim Hee Sun has shed her glamorous image to portray a relatable and grounded mother in her 40s, striking a deep emotional chord with viewers.

The first episode of TV Chosun's Monday–Tuesday miniseries No Next Life (written by Shin I Won, directed by Kim Jung Min) aired on November 10, capturing the raw realities of three lifelong friends navigating midlife struggles.

Despite being in their forties, the trio faces everyday challenges — career breaks caused by childcare, infertility issues, and the anxieties of late marriage.

Kim Hee Sun's character, Cho Na Jung, stood out for her hyper-realistic portrayal. Constantly exhausted from motherhood, Na Jung barely has time to celebrate her own birthday. Her brief outings are met with judgmental stares, and even a well-intentioned apron gift from her husband feels like a wound.

Kim's heartfelt performance resonated strongly. Drawing from her own experience of stepping away from acting for six years after marriage and childbirth, she infused Na Jung's story with sincerity and depth.

Her transformation was complete — from her worn-out T-shirts to her frantic attempts to soothe her children with a forced smile. Viewers saw not a star, but a mother.

The drama also highlights the warm camaraderie between Na Jung, Goo Joo Young (played by Han Hye Jin), and Lee Il Ri (Jin Seo Yeon). Their scenes of comforting each other over life's burdens moved audiences to tears.

Upcoming episodes will follow the three women, all aged 41, as they confront their personal challenges — from Na Jung's return-to-work journey to the growth arcs of her best friends.

Episode two of No Next Life airs on November 11 at 10 p.m.